diagnostics; prices, dealer?

[BerniniCaCO3]

Hi!

Is it important to at least get the diagnostic work done at a dealer?
And, what should I expect to pay?
A non-dealer was asking $100, but I haven't shopped around yet. Seemed a tad high for what's involved....

Finally; will most mechanics keep records of repairs done...?
This car is a recent purchase, and the seller is being lazy about faxing the records to me; but if I can get the name of the mechanic he used (an official volvo mechanic, for what it's worth), would they likely have maintenance records they could send to me?

[Georgeandkira]

Hello, Please provide a little info when you ask a question. Like, model, year, mileage. Also, a little profile for the left hand box goes a long way. If by diagnostics you're referring to pulling codes which make your CEL light up, then no. Get a generic code reader. It'll pay for itself in short order. If other systems are involved then a dealer or well equipt independant mechanic can be more precise. Do keep in mind that cleaning, inspection and scheduled maintenance will let you side-step alot of woe. Regarding your vehicles maintenance records: If it was a private sale then he might have a hodgepodge of receipts somewhere. Volvo dealers can print out the history of a car they've worked on. Any other dealer won't have any. Repair shops vary widely in their record keeping techniques and willingness to help. What does official Volvo mechanic mean in your case? Kira