Do I have to have my Volvo serviced at the dealer to keep my warranty valid?

No. You must maintain your Volvo as outlined in your Volvo maintenance booklet to keep your warranty valid. We perform the services, stamp your book and provide an itemized receipt for this purpose, exactly as required.

What is a Scheduled Service?

For most Volvos, the major scheduled services are at 30,000, 50,000, 60,000, 70,000 and 105,000 mile intervals. hese services begin with a detailed inspection of your Volvo from front to back. We inspect battery and charging system, all fluid levels, brakes, steering, exhaust, tire pressure as well as road testing, resetting the service reminder light and Scanning the Control Module for codes. We pay particular attention to the components below.

The 30,000 mile interval service also includes replacement of engine oil and filter, spark plugs, air filter, cabin air filter and valve adjustment if applicable. Additionally, at the 60,000-mile interval, fuel filter, flame trap, transmission fluid and serpentine belt is replaced if applicable. The 50,000 and 70,000 mile interval service also includes replacement of the engine-timing belt, and flame trap if applicable. The 105,000 mile interval service includes replacement of the engine-timing belt, engine-timing belt tensioner and fuel filter on the later model Volvo’s.

Why should I service my Volvo when it doesn’t need it?

Car manufacturers have spent millions of dollars studying the life expectancy of the parts in their vehicles. This is how they determine their warranty coverage. If they recommend replacing a part at a specific mileage, they have information to back it up.

Why should I use a Volvo Oil Filter?

Volvo’s unique design uses a rubber check valve to keep the oil in the engine, not in the oil pan. Therefore, your engine has instant oil pressure on initial start up when most engine wear occurs. This is one reason for Volvo’s legendary engine longevity.

When to Service the Flame Trap.

Volvo recommends servicing the flame trap every 15,000 miles for 1985 and older cars and 20,000 miles for 1986 and newer.

When Should I Change My Oil?

We have fielded many questions lately concerning oil quality and oil change intervals for Volvo 850 and 960 models. Even though the new car salesman stressed that these new generation Volvos were designed with extended service tolerance in mind read the fine print. The maintenance records booklet in your owner’s wallet recommends oil changed on a 5,000 mile interval in severe driving conditions — i.e. high temperature and/or high-speed driving, extended periods of idling or low-speed operation, frequent short trips or driving in dusty or sandy areas — in other words, driving in Los Angeles Traffic!