Question of cracking accessory belt on a V70

Cls4605 · Post by **Cls4605** » 06 Jun 2006, 11:31

I don't trust my volvo dealer who over recommends service alot. The work is done correctly it is just that they have recommended I have the wheels removed to inspect the brakes everytime I have the oil changed for a fee of $200 of course. This began at 7000 miles, owned for 6 months on a new car.

The question I have is about the accessory belt. The dealers repair shop reports over the phone that it is cracked on the surface. Does this mean the belt needs to be replaced for $200 charge or can it wait until another 20,000 miles when the timing belt is due to be done? Thanks for your help?

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 06 Jun 2006, 21:41

Take it to an indy...the Serpentine belt shouldn't be too much trouble or cost to replace unless you have high miles and it needs a tensioner too...still shouldn't be too high....the dealer you're taking it to are wringing their hands everytime they see you come by.

Oh, and no...you should not wait to replace the belt any miles at all if the belt's surface is cracked. I would have the dealer who's working on your car show the crack(s) to you....they may not be truthful about this issue either if they charge you $200 just to take the wheels off to inspect your brakes at every oil change.

If the belt is truly cracked (on the surface?) then drive it just enough to get it to someone else to repalce the belt for you. There are write-ups on this site on how to do this yourself if you're so inclined. www.fcpgroton.com sells the parts you'll need for cheap.

Post by **JRL** » 07 Jun 2006, 17:17

$200 to remove the wheels to check the brakes

and you PAY that?
This is a 20 minute job, TOPS! So let's see..at $100 an hour, this would cost $25.00! So, unless your dealers labor charge is $400 and hour you're getting royally screwed
It seems that you do not know a whole heck of a lot about cars, you should find an HONEST mechanic

Post by **Pauloil** » 17 Jun 2006, 20:10

you don't need to take the wheels off the check the brakes
just look very carefully bet the spokes or sneak a good look when you get your tires rotated for free somewhere....
Also, slap some grease on the steering stops while your doing this