[AutoGeek]

Thanks Kyle.

 

[AutoGeek]

I did finally get a copy of the RTJ. Unfortunately, the document says not to replace the control arm if the camber is less negative than the recommended threshold (-2.4 deg). Since mine are -2.4 and -2.3 degs, only one meets the criteria. I'd rather not have just one replaced. Therefore, I'll either buy the service parts or the adjustable type and do it myself.
Stan

 

[AutoGeek]

I think in my case the service writer believes that the CPO warranty and the VIP extended warranty are the same. Are they? From the description, the CPO warranty is a Volvo sponsored warranty. I believe that this differs from the VIP warranty which is through Automobile Protection Corporation (APCO). To the consumer and service center, it means that with the VIP warranty they don't like to pay out and it is more difficult to justify warranty repairs.

I believe that my service writer is reluctant to replace the control arm (saying that it would not be covered before he has seen any measurements) because he doesn't think he can justify it to the warranty company and would eat the cost. The other issue that I see is the wording of the RTJ. It states:

If the rear camber is still high after correcting
the toe-in, then replace the upper control arm
with the service part.

Note! The recommended threshold level for
the negative camber angle is -2.4 degrees
for comfort and dynamic chassis (see VIDA,
Vehicle Details) Do not replace the upper
control arm if the camber angle is less
negative than the recommended threshold
levels. If only one side is beyond this
threshold, then only replace the control arm
on that side!

As reluctant as my service writer is to do anything, if pushed, he would say that he is only justified to replace one.

Kyle, I wish I lived closer to your service center. Your customer satisfaction must be first rate. In general, the one I go to is good unless they fear that they aren't going to get paid for the work.

Cover me, I'm going to make the call to schedule my appointment for the CV Boots (warranty!), Radio Freeze (again) and other minor stuff. I hope I get a decent loaner this time.
Stan

 

[AutoGeek]

My V50 has about -2.4 deg of camber on the rears. I bought my V50 with 28K miles and the OEM tires were chewed up but had good tread otherwise. I replaced them with Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S and got 40K miles out of those. These were very good performing but since they were directional I couldn't cross rotate the rears and they were a little chewed. I am now running the Continental ExtremeContact DWS and they seem to be doing very well with 20K miles so far. They are not down to the snow wear indicator yet and are very quite. Performance wise, I'd say the Pilot Exaltos had a slight edge but overall, I like the ExtremeContact DWS.
Stan