A baffling issue...dishonest Dealer????

skjmank · Post by **skjmank** » 27 Jun 2008, 19:19

Volvo S80, year 2000, 104,000 miles

Ok, I have a series of problems with my S80. I took the car into a dealer for the 105k timing belt tune-up.

Also, my check engine light was on and I had been informed that I need to have my ABS module replaced.

So after I took the car in I got a call from the dealer that my head gasket had blown and it needs to be replaced.

So, the total cost of things:
head gasket - $3800
105 tune-up - $1000
ABS Module - $1000

total = about $6,000. That's alot of cash. The street value of the car is about $8,000. I asked about the check engine light and the dealer said that the light was on because of the blown head gasket and the ABS module is broken.

I got the car out of there and took it to my usual mechanic for a second opinion. He said that there is no reason that the check engine light would indicate anything about the head casket condition. He also placed a pump-type device on the anti-freeze fluid container and said that there was almost no change in pressure. He didn't see any leaking oil anywhere.
He then used his computer to read the computer codes and the code said:
"p1633 Vehicle Speed Signal", which may have something to do with the ABS module misreading tire speed or something.

So, I don't know what to make of this situation....does any of this hold more truth than other parts?

thanks!

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 27 Jun 2008, 20:17

Several services to rebuild your ABS unit for less than $150. You can look by clicking on the Volvo Parts tab at the top of the page, but if there's a speed sensor involved, I would look at a dirty wheel sensor...clearing up one problem will most likely clear up both. You still need your timing belt and tensioner replaced....way less than $1000 the dealer wanted. No oil in the coolant is not necessarily a test for a head gasket...you need to get your mechanic to do a leak down test on the engine. If he can't do this simple procedure, find another mechanic. Good thing you weren't taken by the dealer...they were about to rape you.

skjmank · Post by **skjmank** » 28 Jun 2008, 16:07

Ok, I appreciate this input.

1. Any other ideas about the check engine light and what would be seting that off?

2. Any other thoughts about the code "p1633 Vehicle Speed Signal"?

3. If I unplug the ABS module, will it turn off the ABS Module.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 29 Jun 2008, 08:56

Get your codes read at an auto parts store to figure out your check engine light. The speed sensor could be the wheel sensor and related to the ABS...that's why I said what I said in my last post. Unplugging the ABS will cause a an ABS, and if you also have TRACS lights to illuminate on your dash and you will not have a speedometer that works nor will your cruise control work, but you can still drive if you're careful. Best to pull the fuse for the ABS too while it is out being repaired.