Hello All,

I know this is a forum dedicated to 850 (of which I have two). However a lot of you own newer Volvos too, and I have a question that some of you might have the answer to. I have posted this question on the XC90 forum, but I think there is a larger and more active audience on this forum.

I have a 2016 XC90 T8 Hybrid Plug-In. I have 30,000 miles on it and the tires need to be replaced. I was told by the Volvo service writer I can only properly have the wheel alignment performed at the Volvo dealership. The reasons I was given were that an independent shop can perform a mechanical wheel alignment, but to properly set the alignment, you must also "re-calibrate" the electric motors that provide the power steering. You can only do that with access to Volvo's VIDA software data base. If you do not properly re-calibrate the electric motors that provide power steering function, your tires will wear out prematurely. I was told that Audi, BMW and M-B have the same proprietary software that is required for a wheel alignment. If this is true, it effectively gives Volvo a "monopoly" on wheel alignments. That doesn't sound right. I am hoping that some members of this forum maybe be able to confirm what I am being told is true or not and if I have options other than the Volvo dealer. Thanks to all who reply.

Hugh