Clutch gone - Dispute

jeffdem · Post by **jeffdem** » 30 Mar 2021, 02:45

I have a S60 which I bought new in 2018. On 11.03.2021 it went in for its MOT and service. The warranty expired on 15.03.2021. The vehicle has done 8052 miles. As they were waiting for a part I did not collect the vehicle until 20.03.2021. On the way home the car broke down with the clutch burnt out.
The dealer has said it is out of warranty and the clutch needs replacing at a cost of just under £2000. I stated that a clutch should last longer than 8000 miles. They said it is down to driver error which I strongly dispute I have been driving for over 50 years. They have offered a goodwill gesture of a 50% discount. I feel that that is not good enough and they should just replace it. My problem is I have to prove it is not driver error.
Has anyone got any suggestions .

Post by **abscate** » 30 Mar 2021, 05:37

In the US we would ask the dealer to escalate this to the National Volvo office, I think you will be successful getting a good will extension of the warranty. It will be interesting to see the parts after disassembly.

My P2 came from Ghent with one of the release bearing screws missing.

I doubt the clutch material has failed, I bet it’s the hydraulics of the release mechanism

Was there a horrible smell of burned leather when it died ?

Post by **volvolugnut** » 30 Mar 2021, 08:40

I agree with abscate, something was off with the release mechanism. This clutch was never setup properly from the factory. Replacing only the clutch plate (and facing the flywheel, which is likely burned), will lead to more problems in the future.
A factory tech is needed to evaluate the problem after clutch removal. All should be at factory expense.
volvolugnut

Post by **oragex** » 30 Mar 2021, 10:43

Only guessing here, when something fails right after taking back the car from a garage, to me it's 95% something happened while the car was at the garage. The best is really to take a picture of the odometer before leaving the car in their hands, to have a proof in case some funny mechanics take your car for a joy ride. Maybe look closely at the front tires for any abuse marks on the rubber or rubber chips inside the wheel well from a burn out, in case they took your car to a nearby "street meet". Google up about any reviews with the MOT place. You also have this UK forum for advice https://www.volvoforums.org.uk/forumdisplay.php?f=19

Post by **abscate** » 30 Mar 2021, 11:56

I dont think anyone could kill a Volvo Clutch in 8000 miles. There has to be a defect of some sort.

Post by **jonesg** » 30 Mar 2021, 14:17

I would take it to a good indie and have it examined and documented first.
Don't let them cover it up.