Main Dealer Servicing-Wheel Removal

[XCWilts]

As heads up, I had my XC60 annual service with an MOT at a main dealer last week.

I had advisories on the tyres so I duly changed the tyres this morning (not at the main dealer). The garage changing the tyres commented that the brake pads were very worn especially on the inside (2-3 mm).

I called the main dealer to question why I hadn't been informed and was told that the wheels are no longer removed during servicing so there is no way of telling whether the inner pads are worn...

[XC90Mk1]

Originally Posted by XCWilts

As heads up, I had my XC60 annual service with an MOT at a main dealer last week.

I had advisories on the tyres so I duly changed the tyres this morning (not at the main dealer). The garage changing the tyres commented that the brake pads were very worn especially on the inside (2-3 mm).

I called the main dealer to question why I hadn't been informed and was told that the wheels are no longer removed during servicing so there is no way of telling whether the inner pads are worn...

I would question that with volvo U.K. as that’s really not acceptable!

[Clan]

Originally Posted by XCWilts

As heads up, I had my XC60 annual service with an MOT at a main dealer last week.

I had advisories on the tyres so I duly changed the tyres this morning (not at the main dealer). The garage changing the tyres commented that the brake pads were very worn especially on the inside (2-3 mm).

I called the main dealer to question why I hadn't been informed and was told that the wheels are no longer removed during servicing so there is no way of telling whether the inner pads are worn...

Brake pad inspection is a Very important part of the service obviously . Wheels have NEVER been removed on a service that is why Volvo have a special tool for determining the pad thickness left , Each Technician should have one according to volvo Workshop standards .. The least they should do for you is replace your rear pads for free ... Their technician is supposed to write down the pad thickness on his servicing inspection check sheet ,were you given a copy ? This has been the case for at least 10 years now ..There should also be a video they should show you of the technician walking around the underside of the car as he looks and points out various items .
Time for a few more questions I would Say ...

[johnnyoro]

Originally Posted by Clan

Brake pad inspection is a Very important part of the service obviously . Wheels have NEVER been removed on a service that is why Volvo have a special tool for determining the pad thickness left , Each Technician should have one according to volvo Workshop standards .. The least they should do for you is replace your rear pads for free ... Their technician is supposed to write down the pad thickness on his servicing inspection check sheet ,were you given a copy ? This has been the case for at least 10 years now ..There should also be a video they should show you of the technician walking around the underside of the car as he looks and points out various items .
Time for a few more questions I would Say ...

Hi over the last 4 volvos I have owned this has been exactly the information I have been provided , as Clan has said lists the tyre tread depths and brake pad % loss . I have also had the video showing the guy doing those checks
Unacceptable service really as they are normally looking for the extra work

[Tannaton]

The vast majority of manufacturers do not routinely remove wheels during scheduled services now including VAG, etc.

[JGEM]

What does the special Volvo tool look like for checking pad thickness and is it something Joe Public can buy ?

Originally Posted by Clan

Brake pad inspection is a Very important part of the service obviously . Wheels have NEVER been removed on a service that is why Volvo have a special tool for determining the pad thickness left , Each Technician should have one according to volvo Workshop standards .. The least they should do for you is replace your rear pads for free ... Their technician is supposed to write down the pad thickness on his servicing inspection check sheet ,were you given a copy ? This has been the case for at least 10 years now ..There should also be a video they should show you of the technician walking around the underside of the car as he looks and points out various items .
Time for a few more questions I would Say ...

[Deck1ng]

As brake pads and discs are such a vital part of your cars safety I was amazed that volvo no longer remove them to check . I’m sure this special tool does a good job, but I’m now thankful that I go to an independent who on a service, strips, inspects, cleans, reassembles and adjusts my brakes, every time.

[AB100]

In 4 years our local Volvo dealer has not removed a wheel, neither have they supplied a service check sheet.
Only the invoice provides a clue as to what parts have been used.
There is of course the 'free' safety check which does list tyre and brakes wear - optimistically usually.
The video report link has worked 2 times out of 4!
The last service just completed was described and agreed as a 'short service' due to the low mileage this year. Oil and filter listed only. This reduced the cost, but had the cheek to charge extra for cleaning the screen in front of the sensors!
I can only think that there is somewhat of a difference in the quality of service provided between dealers.
ps Wife's Hyundai has wheels off every 2 years as noted on the 2 sided worksheet and in the video!!
We will be in the market for a new car shortly and given the costs now, Volvo needs to wake up! We even fancied a Polestar 2 until we saw that it would entail the same service outlets.

[Zebster]

Are we sure the tyre fitters were not exaggerating the brake wear to get a bit of extra work?

[Chrisv60]

I've just taken mine in for the bleeder hose and seat belt recall and on picking it up they've told me the front discs are rusty and the pads on 6mm which they can change for just over £400!

The centre 'fins' of the discs are rusty but the disc faces are fine.