2006 control arm bushing at 75,000?

traci m · Post by **traci m** » 10 Aug 2012, 15:02

I just took my 2006 XC90 to the dealer for 75,000 mile service. They wanted me to replace the control arm bushings and get an all wheel alignment for $925. They said they were torn and the car would start pulling. I decided to wait as the car is not pulling. I took the car to my VW mechanic (20 years with him) just for a look, and he stated that he didn't see a need to replace them (but he's not a volvo guy). Now I'm torn about what to do. I'd hate to think that the dealership is being dishonest, but I have always properly maintained all of my vehicles and completed any service that was recommended. Any advice would be welcome as I am not a mechanically inclined person.

Post by **jimmy57** » 10 Aug 2012, 23:54

There is a judgement call on lots of things as to the need to replace. I wouldn't be surprised that the bushing may have some cracking in the rubber. Your other tech probably saw no complete separation. If you go to two doctors with a mole one may say let's freeze it off today and the other may tell you to just monitor it and if it gets larger or protrudes then he'll remove it then. Judgement, not right or wrong.
If you would get mad that they didn't warn you that the front end had a developing issue that could impact tire wear then they did their job. If you are completely happy with being put on alert and will watch the tires to be sure no irregular wear is developing then do nothing. Unless you have a very good relationship with the service advisor he can't know if you want the pay and forget it treatment or the tell me and let me watch and repair when I see or feel issues treatment. If they had said it was unsafe and don't haul your kids in it until it's fixed to put the squeeze on you then they would be dishonest.
I have worked in this biz for a long time. I have had people get a little miffed that we only made a note about something we saw as they would have rather fixed it and not show up to get vehicle and find out then. And I have had people who took the attitude the shop was trying to oversell stuff when we called to give them the evaluation and to see if they wanted it repaired. You can't get these things right all the time unless it is someone you have a history with.

traci m · Post by **traci m** » 11 Aug 2012, 09:40

The dealership gave me the impression that this is something that needs to be repaired now and that I shouldn't wait. My other mechanic (who won't work on a vovlo) has always had the perspective to fix something as if it were his car. So here's my real question...Is it realistic to need new control arm bushings and an all wheel alignment after only 75,000 miles? I live in an area with good road conditions.

Post by **jimmy57** » 11 Aug 2012, 12:33

It is no unusual to see bushings need replacement at 6 years and that mileage. The "luxury" car lines (audi, bmw, mercedes, lexus, etc etc) use larger bushings to reduce road noise. The longevity of the bushings is less as a result.

traci m · Post by **traci m** » 11 Aug 2012, 13:05

Thanks for your help!