I've only heard of a "rare" waterpump failure here, I believe one here happened early on under the original warranty. So no, IMO I wouldn't bother to change it unless it's leaking.

You might consider changing the thermostat while flushing the system, since they seem as likely to fail in the closed position as the open position. I also plan to change the tensioner at 140,000, but not the WP. Also all IMO.

The general consensus is that the Aisin Warner AT lasts longer if the fluid is changed. This is not part of the specified maintainance, but probably a good idea. Volvo won't have to pay for the repair if it fails out of warranty. Your dealer sounds like my dealer, maybe they'e all a little shifty.

As I posted below it's COLD outside and try maxing out your heat and fiddling with the controls as described in your owner's manual before you fix something that ain't broke! My temp gauge is running on the low side and I got tons of heat by adjusting the controls today which suggests it's not the thermostat, it's the weather!

$450 to change the brake fluid???? You're KIDDING??

-bill d cat