C30 AC : Just been quoted £1100 to have the AC Condenser replaced

[super josh]

Bought our C30 as a Selekt used approved back in February and didn't notice that the AC wasn't working at the time.

Just had the condenser fault diagnosed by our local dealer, who informed us that because it had been penetrated by a stone or similar object that it wouldn't be covered by the warranty and they quoted £1100!!! to replace the condenser, they give Dick Turpin a run for his money.

I wonder how much an independent AC specialist will charge to perform the same work?

The standard part looks to be of dubious quality. Can anyone recommend a decent aftermarket alternative?

Josh

[AndyMcc]

1100 quid for the condenser replacement !!! Flipping flip flops. Even at top wack prices it's usually around 600 - 700 quid at the main dealers and a lot cheaper at an inde. Which dealership is this. They must have a full work book to quote that.

Andy

[marc]

It might be worth having a look at some scrap yards. I'm sure it'll be the same as the S40/V50 and there must be a few of them sitting around... Just a thought.

Personally I'd go down the main dealer route, could you claim it as insurance seeing as it has been damaged by a stone?

[Grumpywurzel]

Jeez, hope they at least put a mask on before trying to rob you! Personally I'd go down the second hand/scrappy option and get a local garage to fit it for you.

[big square car]

I have the same problem with my wife's C30. Kwikfit have quoted me £160 plus
£49 for a recharge. Would it be any good? Sounds very cheap to me!

[willmcspanky]

Depending on how far you are willing to travel I strongly recommend this guy, http://www.bee-cool-aircon.co.uk

Ive been to him on a couple of occasions and he is sh*t hot. Knows his stuff, friendly and polite and does a great job. Maybe worth a ring at least for some info.

[IanLD]

Plenty of condensers on ebay for much lower prices. I got mine there and then got it fitted at a friendly main dealer for a different make of car. Job done properly and all pressure tested etc before they regassed the system.

[Ninja59]

First question I have to ask is if it was a selekt car how on earth did it pass it's required standards are you 100% sure it was not working at buying it?

Secondly, I would seriously consider ringing Volvo UK and explaining the situation and maybe a goodwill gesture.

Thirdly, have you actually seen evidence of the damage to it? these are notorious for failing and up until last year the pipework on the edge was under a FOC replacement because of it failing and a split occurring.

Fourthly, get some more quotes from independents and then barter with the dealership, they should want the work and should easily come down in price. After all it is only a quote so ask for discount! rather than moan about the initial price it does not have to be the price you pay.

[Loskie]

I had the one replaced on my V50 this year a 2009 model. Was done foc even though car was 4 yr old.

[paddyred]

I got a condenser from Coolparts on e-bay. They where spot on, had a 2 year warranty and looked even sturdier than the Volvo ones even though they where less! The total for the condenser, fit and refill was about £180 at a local garage.