3rd time in. Second time in was a bad experience. Talked to Mr. Bron about the experience. Needed to get car checked out again so thought I would give the shop the benifit of doubt. 3rd time in was also not what I expected. Oil light on, check engine light. Cost me $173 to have them read the codes. They told me to drop pan and inspect would run $450 and that replacing seals, gaskets, etc. would put it at around $1100 or possibly may need new engine. Told me that the recommendation was to put new light oil in it and sell it. Basically pass the problem on to someone else. I stopped them and said no. I went to Jiffy Lube had an engine flush, and synthetic oil put in. Has been running fine with no engine or oil lights.
RESPONSE FROM Bron's Automotive Inc:
Jeff, sorry to hear about your car problems. I discussed this with the Technician and Service Advisor. The amount charged was for diagnosing two codes set for the Variable Valve Timing system. We also tested oil pressure, which was very low, and noted metallic noise in the valve train. This condition is described in Volvo Service bulletin #20-05, a copy of which was given to you. Our repair advice was based on this bulletin, which describes starting with pulling the oil pan for inspection of the severity of the sludge build up, as well as replacement of the oil pump pickup tube with an updated part from Volvo. My service Advisor does not recall advising you to sell the vehicle, but rather remembers wanting to sell you the appropriate repair work. He also informs me that you stated you have been using regular oil in this engine instead of full synthetic oil as required by Volvo. This explains the reason for the sludge build up in the first place. Jeff, our worry is that now that you have full synthetic oil in the motor, that this oil may break loose the accumulated sludge and cause further damage, particularly if the pickup screen for the oil pump plugs up with debris. We are worried for you and your Volvo's motor. Please feel free to call me if you have any more questions or need clarification on anything. Bron Lindgren
more