Geartronic/Auto Vs Manual engine size and mileage.

[SonyVaio]

Originally Posted by rnlisg

i was wondering about this"sealed for life lark"i must admit i dont like the idea,as i tow as well i am also thinking of a full oil change aroung my next service in november.

sandy

Sandy,

You say you tow? Volvo actually recommend that if the vehicle is used for towing or as a Taxi then the ATF should be changed every 2 years. It is only those that do not tow and are not taxi's that it is supposed to be 'sealed for life'.

So you may well be overdue a change of ATF? When having the car serviced does the dealer not ask if you tow?

[Backhill1]

Originally Posted by rnlisg

very interesting thread here guys,i have an 09xc70 auto with 45k on the clock,so about right for year,i was wondering about this"sealed for life lark"i must admit i dont like the idea,as i tow as well i am also thinking of a full oil change aroung my next service in november.a freind has a garage/workshop round the corner,i think i will ask him to do it as he has a hoist,and can get the correct oil through the trade.
sandy

I recon if I had your car I would do a sump change 3.5 Ltrs @ 54k and again every second service interval from now on.

Apparently there is a Temp sensor which can calculate when it's due if towing but if you ask me it's only there to tell you when you cook the fluid.

The problem with autos is most wear comes from particles in the oil and if not changed reg you just speed up a process.

I haven't done mine yet but hope its as easy as described and then I'm just going to change every second service / 2 years.

If dirty on first change might do a few times till clear as most who have drained at 100k report very dirty oil.

[JonnyA]

Hi
reading this with interest as our xc70 is getting towards 100k and I still recall the old mechanic who did the big stuff & MOT on my first car (30yrs ago ...time flys) saying that oil was the cheapest component to change...

Does Volvo actually state what the life bit is in 'sealed for life'?
Looking at the new car offers current warranty is 60k (80k if you pay more) ... so does this imply that as far as they are concerned this is the life? just a thought.

regards

[Backhill1]

Yes I'm afraid that most manufacturers now design for the warranty period / liability.
As such provided it lasts 60k / 3 years and a disclaimer against those that will cause problems (towing/ taxis) then as a supplier you are clear.
From what I can piece together Volvo used to exceed owners expectations of the product hence a reputation for reliability and durability.
The ford marriage appeared to integrate a cost reduction aspect where we now see reduced life in components / year specific maintenance regimes which can only leed to accidents / failure.
However having never tested they do appear to play fairer than most "provided you have a full Volvo dealer s/h" if not it appears to be on yer bike.
I think that is why they are offering the breakdown cover etc trying to tie you into a relationship!