All,
Well, I had a great day last week. I brought the 5sp/non-turbo S70 to the dealer due to my repeated AC problem. Starting at 45,000 my AC would blow warm/moist air after about 15min of use. @45k the dealer replaced the thermostat (probably replaced some Freon but who really knows?) @62k/3 months later(I drive a bunch) the problem came back so they added Freon and then some dye. @62500/(2 weeks) it blows warm again, and only now do they say its the AC compressor that has burnt coils. Repair cost for that is $1067, but they will "give" me 10% off. I was cordial and said I'll take it to an indy tech first.

Now I understand my warranty is no longer in effect, but my service rep always stated that if the AC evaporator is the issue (b/c I thought it was the evap causing the issue) it would be covered under warranty even if I was outside over coverage. I guess it's a grandfathering thing or something... Well, they believe these are two separate issues and thus no warranty coverage. Of course being that I stand to pay a grand for the repair I think it's a continuing issue... and merits warranty coverage.

On top of all this my engine started doing the piston slap last week, and they believe that is due to faulty o-rings. Repair cost: $550. Oh joy!! The damn thing is only 3.6 years old. What the hell?!! I don't expect Honda reliability, but an AC compressor and an internal engine problem in year 3 is unacceptable.

So, I'm looking for some general advice on the issues, and most importantly... how should I go about contacting Volvo North America about getting the AC under warranty? I know my chances are next to nil, but I at least want to try. In all my reading it seems I'm one of two on this board to have any problems with the AC compressor (not the AC in general just the compressor), and one of a few with o-ring problems on a 2000 S70 (usually a C70 thing). I'm going to see the independent tech on Wed. this week. So maybe he can do something. In the mean time I'm sporting my fiancé’s Subaru forester.

Thanks for any help,

JH