Taking My Cheap Volvo V70R To The Dealership Was A DISASTER

If you want something done right, you've gotta do it yourself.
Today, I take my cheap 2005 Volvo V70R Spaceball to the dealership to have a common and critical service performed... Timing belt and water pump replacement. While it's at the dealership, I figured I might as well get a quote for everything else that is wrong with the car.... My experience was less than satisfactory.
Do you know what's going on with some of the things I mentioned? Let me know in the comments!
Thanks for watching!
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0:00 Intro
1:47 What I Know Is Wrong
5:43 The Larger Problems
8:36 Waiting On Volvo
10:00 The Aftermath / Outro
#Volvo #V70R #BadEstimate

[@jloudy]

Until you get that smoke issue cleared up you should call it Puff, The Magic Wagon ... I'll show myself out.

[@2kcars507]

Dont forget your coat! LOL!

[@EvanDickersonM81]

git your ass back in here. I like it.

[@davidedgar3509]

@@2kcars507 A coat of many colors?

[@tomdelisle8955]

Wicked clever

[@marcusjosefsson4998]

@@davidedgar3509 But it isn't Josephs Volvo, it's Elliotts? 🤔

[@cmcrisp42]

I love that the guy behind you, ended up being Hoovie.

[@tonerapture2717]

Yeah, I spotted that blue nose too, and just having watched Hoovie's today video, I knew it was him. LOL

[@tristanperry351]

Was just thinking that, straight to the comments to confirm. Who knew Kansas would be car KZbin central...

[@acft1234]

Hoovie is everywhere lol

[@henrikcarlsen1881]

Well yes, it was Hoovie but the copy-cat feeling is quite clear already. Hoovie has this crazy hopping intro which I hate. It fits neither of them. Hope he finds another mechanic whom he can introduce to the Internet (can't forget the Wizards death glare on his intro)

[@needlemiejer143]

so if hoovies around why not take it to the wizard

[@MacLeighnoughton]

You should have handed in the car to the Wizard.

[@billpar]

my thoughts or the car ninja

[@kevinmcadams805]

Definitely would be cool to have the wizard look over it.

[@arhanshah]

Hoovie probably has a patent for that 😂

[@trdrav4]

Car Wizard with the Bug Ninja...he probably sold it too if its local

[@captainamerica2931]

🧙‍♀️wizard time!!!!

[@FixItNick]

Dealers.. is what made me get my KZbin Mechanic Certificate

[@ElliottAlvis]

And it’s worked out great for you so far! So maybe there is a silver lining here...

[@FixItNick]

@@ElliottAlvis heck yes, I knew nothing about cars when I was 19, in fact there was no youtube when I was 19, had to use magazines, when KZbin came, I was able to get u limited certificates on everything!! Lol

[@catfishakaAMC]

Volvo fan here. I wish I could say your dealership experience was an isolated event, but unfortunately it's not. Try and find a good independent Volvo mechanic. VIDA-DICE will help you a lot with the stuff you may be able to tackle yourself. Before you go ANY further though, a word of caution: the Rs do have a problem with the blocks cracking. This is NOT a head gasket, but is often misdiagnosed as one. The block will crack between the cylinder walls and you'll start burning coolant. Keep an eye on your coolant and if it keeps going low with no obvious leaks, pull the plugs and check for white buildup.

[@frederiquekruger4818]

Where I am from we call dealerships, Stealerships

[@roostersideburns3440]

@@FixItNick its very nice to know

[@MetroWalt]

It’s cool how both Hoovie & Elliot both help each other record their videos.

[@DaIssimo]

That smoke is probably a sign that the turbo is about to die. When the throttle is suddenly closed, a vacuum is generated in the turbine and that could draw oil from a bad seal/bearing.

[@ElliottAlvis]

Yikes... Thats not good.

[@kevinmcadams805]

@@ElliottAlvis Perhaps is a blessing in disguise. I have seen some crazy aftermarket mods on these are 60 r’s. I have a 2006S 60 R and I am really enjoying your journey with this car because I’m thinking of doing some mods on my car but I’m following your lead first. It would be really cool to see your wagon in the 450 hp region where I understand these cars can be taken too that level with a bigger turbo.

[@michaeltutty1540]

That smoke could be the turbo, but it could also be valve seals. Or both. Sitting that long, all the rubber is dry and hard. I would try some high mileage oil and see what happens.

[@lukebraddford3287]

@@michaeltutty1540 as in use synthetic oil?

[@robertvanness7486]

​@@michaeltutty1540 With leaking valve seals you commonly see a puff of smoke on startup too. Turbo cracking from sitting seems unlikely, but most R turbos develop the same relatively benign hot-side crack over ~100k mi. That doesn't cause it to lose oil though. Would be curious to know how the PCV is doing... When that fails as they often do you can blow all kinds of seals. Could possibly be piston rings too? Not a super common failure mode on this engine but not impossible

[@suide3275]

Oo maybe you could arrange an episode with the wizard and a his Volvo friend who had appeared on some video's of the Car Wizard. I think his name was the bugninja or something

[@ElliottAlvis]

Yes! He’s a friend of mine as well. That’s a good idea.

[@finalmage6]

@@ElliottAlvis Dooooo it!

[@Bill_Hartnett]

@@ElliottAlvis Oh I didn't even think of him. He would be a great person to get to look over your Volvo as he loves those things so much.

[@ajw828]

Wait that’s not Rich Rebuilds?!

[@Hotlog69]

Bug Ninja!

[@sftny9881]

Hoovie had similar dealership experience with a inspection on his Porsche. Tells you dealers just don’t care, even if you pay them. Thus stealership.

[@ElliottAlvis]

Apparently! Extra $140 down the drain.

[@Shauma_llama]

Same dealership group?

[@Hypocrite-ical]

@@Shauma_llama Sounds like "The Walser Way" to me.

[@tylerp4130]

Sounds like it's probably the same group Hoovie dealt with. But he has a much bigger following so they tried to "make things right" for him. Obviously they haven't taken it seriously beyond trying to look good on Hoovie's channel.

[@babyjayASMR]

most wholesome member of the automotive youtube community

[@ElliottAlvis]

Haha, thank you!

[@BaronQ]

@@ElliottAlvis and loving your range of cat shirts 😻 How's your neck? Are you fully recovered dude?

[@EvanLoxley]

7:47 I wouldn't feel bad, the car following has made much more bad smoke in its recent history...

[@ElliottAlvis]

Haha, that’s true!

[@kadenw968]

HAHA Yeah

[@sdn40]

The dealer knew they would be wasting their time giving you a list of things that you weren't gonna have them do.

[@worldhello1234]

They didn't know for sure and it reflects bad on them and potential business opportunities in the future. Let alone that he paid for the whole diagnostics instead of getting a free estimate. All the lame excuses are nonesensical anyway. 🤷‍♂

[@michaelpfaff6009]

Thanks for the new video and the car updates!! Take that Volvo to the Car Wizard! We all missed you during the Motory Notary absence. I had to watch your older videos to satisfy my need for Motory Notary videos....

[@ElliottAlvis]

haha, well thanks Michael! It's an honor to be missed!

[@phishphood423]

I am by no means a certified Volvo mechanic, but here is the pretty substantial info that I can give you on the issues that you mentioned. 1. Volvo sunroofs from this era had a problem. All sunroofs leak, but the issue was that the drain tubes would back up and flood the cabin. I know this is true, because it totally trashed my '04 XC90 T6. The subfloor will literally fill with water -- virtually every single Volvo of this era had the issue. This is why the yaw sensor is dead -- mine literally had a waterline on it. You can get new (used) ones for quite cheap and the swap is insanely easy. 2. That may also explain the lack of speakers...Volvo put amplifier components down on the floor under the passenger seat. I got lucky, mine did not die (the XC90 has a different system) but yours may well have. 3. Your car has rain sensing wipers. That is likely the cause of the "haywire" wiper system. A faulty sensor can cause this. You can "fix" this sometimes simply by unplugging the sensor, at which point the wipers will often function normally again (minus rain sensing of course). 4. BCM is your antiskid/antilock brake control module. Pretty big deal from a safety perspective, get that fixed ASAP. 5. Have you checked the PCV system health? Put a glove over the oil fill cap and start the car. If it inflates, you need a new breather box/hose kit as well as an intake manifold gasket. This can contribute to burning oil. I could also see it being turbo related...but again, no expert here. 6. Timing belt/water pump is expensive on Volvo cars because it is a PAIN IN THE ASS to do. Volvo makes coils, plugs, simple stuff easy to access. But timing belts require a specific tool to lock the two cams in a fixed position (hard with VVT) and (at least on the XC90 with the long T6) you also have to pull the passenger wheel, fold back the liner, remove a headlight and a few other things. It sucks, though experienced mechanics get pretty fast at doing it.

[@alanstrassner348]

I had an 05 S60R that I drove from 09 to 13...it was wonderful and these videos bring back the great memories...the silver 5 blade Pegasus wheels, the navy interior, those seats were the most comfortable seats I have owned, the drive was so so good, and it was fast...thanks for the chance to relive...

[@leccybadger]

Volvo knew it wasn't worth their time to diagnose all issues, they ain't getting a cent out of you to repair them 😉

[@kowalski5599]

But they were being paid to locate the issues. So there's that.

[@cmcrisp42]

@@kowalski5599 every car and mechanic KZbinr in that area all have had issues with the dealership. Hoovie actually has a full video about what's going on with the dealership.

[@user-ih4zj5nt9q]

I don’t know what exactly he asked the dealer to do, but for $140 and check up for everything he mentioned? I’m aware of that every god damn dealership is notorious for ripping off. However, all those issues are not considered easy diagnosis especially when it comes to an old car like that. Maybe the reason why he got only couple diagnosis is that dealer asked more labor time to proceed with further diagnosis and he declined it. I would say he’s pretty lucky that dealer only charged $140 for all those even if they didn’t give him all the answers to what problems he had.

[@wynwilliams6977]

@@user-ih4zj5nt9q ? the 140 was for a diagnostic list of issues, nothing else... he paid over a grand for the timing belt replacement etc

[@Felix-R88]

@@user-ih4zj5nt9q Volvo has a “standard” rate for “diagnosis”. In Sweden it’s about the equivalent to $140. What they do is plug in that little computer thingy in the OBD2 socket and push “play”. It’s literally a 5 minute job including a coffee brake.

[@100PercentJake]

HE'S BACK

[@misterfeedback202]

The booster seats are awesome. Had them in my XC70 (2006). I mentioned them in a previous comment when you got the car.

[@ElliottAlvis]

They rule! It's such a neat feature. Thanks for mentioning them!

[@kdotman48]

So glad to see another volvo lover in kansas, I'm just up on i-70 in Central kansas.

[@gemballacirrus]

Good to see you back! And I really think you should be in the next Car Trek too!

[@QALibrary]

I would ask the Wizzard to have a look and give you a list

[@ElliottAlvis]

I should do that!

[@captainamerica2931]

Wizard 🧙‍♀️ time!!!!!!!!!

[@AWMJoeyjoejoe]

He could bring in The Bug Ninja to have a look at it. That guy knows everything Volvo.

[@rickg7792]

Great idea!

[@omega1575]

@@ElliottAlvis maybe you could do a comparison between what the wizard finds and what the dealership found

[@robertkeable1627]

Used to have an old 240GLT estate. Wish I still had it now. She's going to be a hooptie for sure. Be well and stay safe. Thank you for your hard work in making these videos.

[@scout1633]

Fantastic video of the Volvo. Looking forward to updates in the future, resolving the issues. And yes, the Volvo dealership in Wichita is now a part of a family owned set of dealers who are to be avoided at all costs.

[@emrei]

At one point I was really scared that you would get angry with the dealership and sell this monster. Wish you good luck and can't wait to see you fixing this treasure!

[@CarsofGlasgow]

Great video Elliott! Nice to see an update on the Volvo

[@ElliottAlvis]

Thank you man! Theres a lot going on with this car lol 😅

[@bobparker3215]

Couldn't miss that beautiful Nassau blue Vette hood and sure enough next video is Hoovie's Vette is done. Guess we know who does the drive by filming now

[@daviddennis7558]

It is good to see the Motory Notary! Great video. Your experience is one of the reasons I absolutely abhor taking any of my cars to a dealer. Fortunately, you have some other great resources you can depend upon! How long did Tyler complain about being smoked out in his Corvette??

[@arhanshah]

Where were you man!? We missed these videos..

[@billpar]

you have increased your following by 10,000 with the addition of this Volvo, great going plus I like this much better continued good luck

[@redporschekilla]

My "motary notary' your oil plums is a result of worn out exhaust valves stems..., and while you're at it, do the intake valve stems.... Love your content, keep rocking

[@Juancheros]

Your videos are getting better Elliot! The repair bill doesnt seem bad, I am in LA. Wonder if Ninja is willing to work on it. Thank you Euro-Asian Bob, we love you!

[@claudiaandthomasruhl7753]

Great ! I also drive a V 70 (blue), paint came of the bonnet. What a fantastic car ! And I brought it to the dealer. What a bunch of tossers ! Learned to repair it myself. Resprayed the bonnet. Replaced the ECU and the TractionControl Module... Robert DIY Videos helped me tremendously !

[@kyledexter485]

Welcome back. Thank you for a new video.

[@henkbakker3588]

Hey Elliot, finally a next video about the Volvo and then ... it is a short one 🥲 But when you are doing all the repairs yourself then there will be more to come 😀 hope to see them soon!

[@NeilsCarsAviationTravel]

Hey Elliot. UK subscriber here. I’ve had a few 5 cylinder Volvos. Can’t beat the sound. Keep up the good work.

[@christopherkraft1327]

Hello Mr Motary Notary, I'm not surprised that you had a less than stellar experience at the Volvo dealer! Here in Southern California where there's lots to choose from the dealers aren't any better!! I really like the Volvo & look forward to seeing future videos. Thanks for sharing this fun video & remember, try to brush after every meal!! 👍😁

[@barbaraalvis2881]

Looks like you have your work cut out for you... but I know you’re up to the challenge!! Looking forward to watching you go through the process... Great video

[@karlporath8904]

Watching this while going through my box of parts delivered yesterday from FCP, for my V70R.

[@gkeviv]

I had a 2004 V70R and kept it for about 13 years and got rid of it at 235,000 miles. Loved driving the car but it definitely had a few bumps along the way (my dealer was actually really great to work with). I had one issue that actually took a bit to sort out early in the car where I was getting anti-skid service and other warnings at random. It would tend to happen on really humid or wet days. Turned out after the dealer couldn't figure it out the engineers in Sweden got back to them and told them it could only be one thing. Some corrosion on a set of terminals that was getting shorted when there was enough moisture in the air. Sure enough it was exactly that. At the end of the car's life I also had a problem where there was some slipping going on as you described and it did turn out to be the angle gear being worn out to the point that it occasionally slipped. The cost was more than I wanted to spend to repair. They told me I could keep driving and one of two things would happen, either I would end up with a stripped gear and it would become a front wheel drive car or it would seize. Hope you get the car running smoothly and can enjoy.

[@spectra_3005]

I know its a dead bushing causing it but holy hell keep it broken. It sounds like a gated spaceball!

[@acft1234]

The content this car will provide is endless. Can't wait. My I really interested to know what the puff of smoke was...

[@nixinc1]

I just took my MB to get a full inspection at MB $524. They wanted to bang me for a $6000 transfer case that needed a fluid change, and $3200 for front cv axles. OH and your brakes are low, 6 front and 5 rear. a bunch of services and tires(which i knew are due.) who would pay for service after $10,000 in repairs? I paid my bill and didnt even get brake/tire specs and several of my issues werent even addressed. I work at a chrysler dealer and i agree, stay away from the stealership unless you have a good working relationship with them.I was primarily after verification on a couple items that needed diaged with the mb computer, so I knew which way to go and they just wanted to bang me. I found a YT video of a guy with a similar t case issue that got the fluid good and warm and did the change. Low and behold it fixed the problem for $30. Not $6000 plus labor.

[@Falkietje]

I did the timing belt, waterpump and idler pulley myself with jackstands underneath the car in 2 days, this was including fishing out the exploded waterpump and replacing the radiator. Took them quite a long time to fix it....

[@gcrauwels941]

One of the first things I got when I bought my '07 VR was a VIDA DICE setup. Even though my car was owned by a good buddy of mine (R.I.P. TK) and was maintained meticulously, it saved me big bucks the first time I had an issue with the car (FPS). Worth the money.

[@JoesGoldenGarage]

I’ve done the yaw sensor on a xc90. I believe it’s behind the airbag in the steering wheel. Maybe in the column. It’s been a few years but it was not tooooo bad. Good luck. Love this ole wagon.

[@GustafWestin]

7:42 That smoke from behind the car is most likely caused by a leakage in your turbo the lets oil into the exhaust

[@ToomasTelling]

I had this issue with one of my volvos and it turned out to be a plugged up oli drain from the turbo.

[@mihaihjn]

More than likely

[@stuartkcalvin]

Good piece, thanks.

[@jeadie2273]

If there is something amiss with the anti-skid....from my understanding, this disables the awd. My awd s60 had similar issue and was not too $$ to repair. My BMW X5 also had a similar issue and was the steering angle sensor.

[@johno9507]

Growing up in the early 80s my Dads Volvo 264gle had a built in booster seat that I used for years...otherwise known as the center armrest. 😁

[@michaeldoran8157]

Tailgate struts is a 20min/side job.

[@michaeldoran8157]

well... actually for the first try, one side takes an hour, the OTHER side takes 20min.

[@chrishawkins32014]

Damn! I’m screwed. 🤦‍♀️ I have the V70 2.5 T version and my struts are out.

[@gc4408]

Very easy , did both 2 mos ago........ just make sure not to lose the tiny clips and make sure they go perfectly in the tiny holes...... annoying but easy.

[@MP-vd1ck]

He needs to have watchjrgo tonthe tail light trunk struts

[@mitchellbarnow1709]

This episode was definitely worth waiting for, Elliott Alves! Has anyone ever had a good dealership experience? They are okay when they have an oil change special, otherwise they are in business just to screw you over. Sales, Finance or Service, they suck!

[@ElliottAlvis]

You said it Mitchell! Thanks for your patience while I got this video out!

[@aussie2uGA]

The smoke when changing gears probably indicates a bad internal turbo shaft seal. You're dumping all that pressure on each shift which produces a massive pressure shock and disruption happening. If the seals are marginal, oil seeps by and gets consumed. If it goes for too long, you may find it starts triggering the CEL for the O2 sensor as it and the catalytic converter is starting to get coated. You'd probably need to be driving it under hard boost all the time or tracking it though.

[@ElliottAlvis]

Good info. I'll be taking it fairly easy until I get to the bottom of it, thats for sure. Thanks!

[@TheSurfRyder]

There are turbo rebuild kits out there from reputable companies do some digging.

[@CreosoteChris]

[V70R owner here - great to see you enjoying your wagon!] Oily smoke - I'm saying it's due to wear around the valve guides - when the motor runs hard, oil pressure in the valvetrain area builds up, and then, on the overrun, the pressure goes negative, and that extra oil gets sucked via the valve guides, into the cylinders. Not a big problem in itself - though obviously it increases oil consumption, and it's kinda embarassing. But porobably not top of the priority list. Get that VIDA hooked up! it's a PITA getting the DICE software to work - but it will proper|y identify your issues - I was able toi fix my Active Chassis setup without recourse to expensive Volvo dealer service.

[@rdrewnelson539]

Make sure the PCV isn’t plugged or a vacuum leak source. Will contribute to the smoke on deceleration. Compressor bypass valve diaphragm might be torn creating massive imbalance in pressures on deceleration. Valve stem seals will usually pull oil through at idle as opposed to what your are experiencing.

[@VincentP220]

I Purchased a Flash Green over Atacama V70 R just days after you bought yours Elliott. I’ve been chasing maintenance items and building up mine along side you. Lots of Swedish fun times!

[@sdn40]

For the smoke issue - check out the inside of the valve cover. A broken plastic fin caused that issue on my A4.

[@ElliottAlvis]

Thanks for the tip!

[@lgunderso2117]

Wow, very similar to Hoovie's convertible 911 experience at that dealership group. I agree with others re: Turbo shaft seal/pressure spikes/dips. I'd also try to do the rear hatch struts yourself- I did them on my Saab 9-5 wagon while in high school. It wasn't too difficult, just pull the headliner trim, peel the headliner back, and have an assistant overextend the hatch while you replace the struts. Make sure to only do one at a time, though yours might be so dead they're past the point where that helps.

[@bortsmithson]

I had an S60R that had nearly all the same issues as your V70R. I had a local independent shop do a bunch of work to that car, including a few of the computer modules, which they had sent off to a company I believe in Ontario, Canada, which was about half the price of new ones and came with a lifetime warranty. They also waterproofed the modules, as I believe that the sunroofs are in issue on these years of Volvo's. I managed to buy front struts on Rockauto for about 500 CAD each, but they went out of stock as fast as they came into stock.

[@gars1074]

Great video, you echo my dealership experiences EVERY TIME! More people should be posting more videos of stealership experiences, but I don't think that "shaming" dealership will change anything. They will simply go back into their offices and n their money!

[@andy530i]

I own a 2002 S80. I purchased a Gates water pump & timing belt kit for £90, and placed it on the car in under an hour, she's been running fine for the past 3 years :)

[@minnesotaprimal9721]

Glad you got Vida/dice it will help you alot! Bummer about the dealership. Keep up the videos!

[@ElliottAlvis]

Thanks! I’m looking forward to learning how to use the Vida/DiCE unit!

[@csebastian71]

@@ElliottAlvis So are we. 😂

[@nathansautodetail]

Go to the Car Weeezard. I'll only ever take my car to independent shops if I can help it. Dealerships and chain repair shops charge too much for no reason because their techs usually aren't that master-tech. I had a chain shop (Firestone) diagnose the failed steering rack bushings as ball joints (the bushings were visibly bad, hard to miss), but I told the guy up front what was wrong and I had replaced the ball joints a year prior. I just wanted a price for them to replace them. The only reason to go to a dealer is if it's required for programming something that no one else can or is allowed to do. I doubt that's the case with this old Volvo.

[@hawkinsjd11]

You have the best mechanic in the country in your backyard!!! Car Wizard time!

[@ElliottAlvis]

I think you're right Jess!

[@Jonny2by4]

for the radio, check the fuse for the head unit/amp. if it's fine, it's probably the amp

[@Kimsey47]

Knows the Wizard, Bugninja, and JRGO... Goes to dealership to see what's wrong with the car... LOL! I'm always sitting around here wishing I knew and had those guys near me to help investigate issues, and I'm no where near them! You crack me up brother! Best of luck on getting the Volvo back to her prime.

[@letsgoballistic]

That flooding might also be why your radio isn't working because if I remember correctly from when I owned an s60, the amp for the audio systems is under the driver seat.

[@ElliottAlvis]

Yep! I'll definitely be looking into the amp

[@mitchellbarnow1709]

Why did Volvo put these important electrical components down where they could easily get wet from wet carpeting?

[@SHOdown13]

Your buddy Hoovie knows a guy who's very thorough on inspections and diagnostics.

[@ElliottAlvis]

Ah yes, I've heard of this guy...

[@billcunningham8485]

Ha! I did something similar on my third Mini R53. There was a recall on the power steering pump by Mini. I brought it in and Mini paid for a new power steering pump on a 16 year old car - a $1,500 service. While it was in there the dealer went through it at a Pre-Purchase inspection level inspection… for free. They provided my with a 21 page report of what the Mini needed which totaled $4,800 for a car I purchased for $825. I thanked them but declined the $4,800 repairs - including $75 to replace a bad bulb in my bumper. I fixed the top things myself or had my indy mechanic do. Sold the car the next month for $3,500. Rolled that profit into the next Mini… my final R53.

[@blackbluepurr8063]

I did my timing belt water pump and tensioner on my s60 myself in about 3 hours for about 150 dollars in parts. Yes if you wondering it runs great with no check engine light.

[@daveyacarter]

The dealers are the same here in England from my experience. loving the Volvo vids 👍

[@helenamirian908]

I plan to buy the "Fixd" device and do my own diagnostics in future.

[@jackbauer4607]

Stealership is a good word. In my country you only go there when you're under warranty (and even then they can still mess something up or decline the repair) and after that you stay as far away as possible.

[@GustafWestin]

There are tons of Swedish KZbin channels that fix v70s. I have one of theses cars of my own. Solving the trunk is super easy, just pull the interior panels. The all wheel drive is only active when traction is missing on the front wheels, so it doesn’t have to be that bad. The dice module also requires a software vida. But maybe you got that as well.

[@nicholascortez728]

Don't waste your money on getting a replacement factory radio. You can get a solid DD with Android Auto/Apple Car Play and a dash kit for about the same price that will do everything and more that the factory HU could do. If you really want to get the factory radio working the most cost effective option is you taking it out getting a factory radio harness and a 12v Power Supply and a volt meter but at the end of the day it's an almost 20 year old factory radio that sounded mediocre when it was new. As far as the dealer taking your 150 diagnostics fee they pretty much looked at your early 2000s Volvo and decided they didn't want anything to do with it beyond what you were actually paying to fix. They don't really make money on repairing your old car. They want warranty work for new cars that's where the real billable hours are and while the customer doesn't pay for it Volvo does. So they will bill the shit out warranty work. Your car isn't valuable to them so they will either quote you a stupid high fee so you will leave of they will forget your number.

[@petrisorpop5243]

- the puff smoke is because of the PCV system clogged (positive crankcase ventilation). There are a lot of videos online on what and how to replace. Can be done in anywhere from 2-4h. Anyway, it's a must to replace when you get a used Volvo with no maintenance records, otherwise it will lead to more costly repairs. - the ECU's can be reconditioned by a company called xemodex, they have pretty good service. Never had any luck in the past with just cleaning the contacts or connectors, (but you can try this first, of course). Usually water gets in the ECU's itself. Especially the CEM underneath the driver side dashboard. Also most ECU's on these Volvo's are paired with the car so not interchangeable with other vehicles if you are thinking of getting a salvaged one you would have to take it to a company like xemodex or a dealership to pair it to your VIN again (Vida cannot do that). - The 4 wheel drive and suspension you will get good info from Dice/Vida on what's wrong with it. But that's gonna be pricy, the sensors or other cheaper parts don't usually fail, is mostly the suspension dampeners and the haldex unit and pump. Really sorry about you dealership experience, try to avoid Volvo dealerships in the future. However, you will have an exceptional experience with the tight Volvo community, this is where you will get most of info and work done. You could find a lot of Volvo guys willing to do work such as timing replacement for even free or a fraction of what you would pay at a dealer.

[@ElliottAlvis]

Thanks for the detailed comment! I am hoping the smoke is from the PCV and not a turbo seal going. I sure was hoping to just clean the contacts on the computers and be good, but if thats not likely, that is disappointing, but like you said, I'll still try it first.

[@madmike6942]

car is a beast... i am happy u save it and plz don't trash it

[@ajw828]

😂 so happy you included Ke$ha in this one.

[@bkuznick]

VIDA SW & DICE can be helpful but many new, higher end scan tools can do more. When the sunroof drain (drivers side) gets plugged, water can drip on the CEM module beneath the dash causing all sorts of issues. If replacement is needed, Xemodex can take your old one and another (used) CEM and reprogram and unplug/replace relays/fuses, etc. and ship it back to you...back in business. Good luck! [owner of three 2004-2010 Volvo models...XC90 (P2), S60T (P2) and S80 T6 (P3)]

[@OldManRoo]

I'd definitely try the car wizard, because he'll also let you know whether certain items are rebuildable, and maybe tell you what you can do yourself. And he'll be thorough on the need for service/ maintenance items after the long rest the car has had.

[@ElliottAlvis]

The Wizard rules!

[@roheetpatel8378]

Elliot, I had only front wheels working on my 2005 s60r. The issue for me was the collar sleeve that connected the drive shaft. The teeth on the inside of the collar sleeve had play in them from 2003 to 2006... I then fitted a 2007 version and then I have my awd back. The shocks for the v70r are made by munroe and can be purchased from them direct. A lot cheaper than dealers prices.

[@volvoenthusiastsgroup3386]

That VIDA set up will save you a lot of headaches and save you a lot of diagnostic fees. That $100 “diagnostic fee” you payed for is just paying for a Volvo tech to plug in their VIDA and printing out what the car is telling them. They won’t actually spend time to diagnose problems. I can see the yaw sensor going bad it happens frequently. There’s tons of used good ones out there for sale. Plus it takes 20min to replace. BCM could be rebuilt by XEmodex if it really is bad. The oil burning is still very weird. Maybe turbo seals I’d check your intake pipes to see if there’s an excessive amount of oil in them. But this VR is still off to a better start then most projects I’ve seen! Hit us up on Instagram is you need help sourcing parts👍 God speed 🇸🇪👍

[@ElliottAlvis]

Awesome! Thank you for the suggestions, and for watching!

[@NuclearPineapple]

Honestly the 1200 for the belt, water pump, and diagnostic at a dealer no less sounds like a really good deal

[@veedubgeezer]

The CEM on these is up begind the dash. You'll need to have most of the scuttle panel out to access it too. The often suffer water ingress. DiCE is a good VCI to have, but you'll need a login for VIDA too. This requires a subscription and has to be registered through Volvo. It may be easier in the US due to your "tech service" rulings making access to diagnostics mandatory. Also, there's very little you can do beyond code reads and live data. Programming new modules or updating software is all done through software purchased at a dealer and sent to your VIDA account. You'll need a friendly dealer to do that.

[@davidkelley751]

Once you get the chassis 4c suspension fixed, advanced also has sharper throttle response.

[@davidruffjr6045]

This should be fun to see sir !!

[@richardmahoney9415]

First time seeing this channel I absolutely love these cars and have no clue why

[@ElliottAlvis]

I appreciate you checking the channel out! This car has really captured my heart!

[@richard63]

I had a 12 yo Kia Carnival ( here in Australia). The ESP, radio, Cruise control and cold-start sensor all eventually closed down in a 12 month timespan. No one wanted to touch it so off to the wreckers it went. I hope you have better luck than me. I like Volvos , too.

[@ElliottAlvis]

Oh no, I'm sorry to hear that Richard. I hope this Volvo doesn't have the same fate!

[@scotfenedick6618]

Thanks for the 30 seconds of cold cranking of the Malibu. Sucks your dealership isn’t seem to be into helping* enthusiasts. More content for you. Thanks for putting out content.

[@orky79]

Heya Elliot. I’m a parts manager at a Volvo dealership(not in the US). I could potentially help out with getting part numbers for some items you require. Happy to help in any way I can. Cheers

[@sleepingwarrior4618]

I changed my timing belt recently. I got it right too! :)

[@Jaggrawr]

Here in California, for the same timing belt job but NO water pump or diagnostics, I was quoted $1120 before tax. With water pump $1675 before tax LOL. Ended up going to a good independent shop instead.

[@whitef67]

Can confirm. Since bought by the “problem” dealership group the Wichita Volvo dealer is pretty inept.

[@relaxationstation8975]

Great video. Great car. Got a 07 s60r myself. Brought mine to the dealership to get a new transmission. Sadly previous owner never changed fluid and wouldnt shift. Only cost me 3400 for trans and labor. 89k on the used trany i got 140xxx on car. Still pricey wish i had the manual

[@Dirtyboxer1]

$1600 for a timing belt job at a dealership isn't all that bad. Toyota wanted $2k to change the belt in my old Solara.

[@centaurus5676]

£280 pounds to change the belt in the Uk! About $350 in your money! You guys are been scammed to the limit.

[@RacinZ28]

He said it was $1226 total with the diagnostic fee.

[@BigBundy82]

I just want to say for the second time Elliott.. I think your new Volvo V70 is Bad Ass Classic Volvo... And I love your name the turbo charged family hauler!!

[@smh3293]

Much love from Seattle.....Vinnie

[@mugslschlaengli5928]

Same for me. The Volvo dealerships in germany are not different. Went to 4 of those, and all had a hard time diagnosing my 2005 V50 (and bad service). After a long search i finaly found a local independent shop where they fixed all the problems i suspected with my car. They even read up on some Volvo specific procedures.

[@ElliottAlvis]

Glad I’m not alone, but I’m sorry you had issues as well. I might have to find a Volvo specialist or take it to the Wizard next!

[@MEngNeno]

Hoovie behind you! :)

[@evanmcmaster3900]

If the active chassis says temporarily disabled (or something along those lines I'm not in my R to check) it is 9/10 a strut, wheel speed sensor, throttle position sensor or wiring and since you know the struts are blown it is most likely that. For anyone confused why it could be the throttle position sensor R's are throttle by wire and the pedal is supposed to adjust with the settings don't ask me why but if either something on the strut side or throttle side fails it shuts down both. Source I own an S60R and asked the only Volvo specialty in my state a bunch of questions to guide me in my repairs and that's what they told me. Also you totally could've done the belt by yourself, it is definitely a pain in the ass without the locking tool but I did the whole job by myself with 6 months experience as a lube tech and just had an old timer I trusted check it over before I turned it. It would've been much easier for you too because my car was a sitter I had absolutely no left over resistance from the oil pressure on the cams if I tugged the belt at all they would both spin lol.

[@stuartelliott1933]

The Wizard could do a deep inspection but mechanics like him are rare. Most main dealers just have technicians who can do the basics like oil, filters etc but if it’s not on the computer they can’t diagnose it.

[@notfst]

Smoke on decel is usually turbo seals or your PCV/blowby system. Check the pcv first, replace some cheap valves in there, and if that doesnt fix it one of the turbos is about to go.

[@PJGrant85]

Thank you for the great content, defo look like bad experience with your volvo dealers we have the same same issue in the UK but my local dealer are really good but the for them to plug in diagnosis machine it cost £250 so $354.20

[@ElliottAlvis]

Thanks for watching!

[@seanoturbo]

Splined sleeve is a nightmare to change. I’ve done a few 🤣