Larry's Volvo Repair & Service
Seattle, WA 98108
Phone: (206) 722-4070
04/24/2008 Posted by adampeart
So, I took my XC V70 into Larry's about six months ago. They diagnosed that I had a problem with my drive shaft, likely the front universal joint. At that time they quoted me $450 to fix it. I didn't have the money at that time so I waited on making the repair. Two months ago I had them replace a CV boot, and they reminded me of the drive shaft issue. I asked the tall fellow there what he thought it would cost to fix it. He said "even if the whole drive shaft needed to be replaced it would only be $800." So, last week, having $800 for the repair, I took my car in to have the drive shaft replaced. They called me and said the drive shaft itself was $1,250! At least the labor was only quoted at $91. Not having $1,500 for the repair, and suspicious of the ever increasing estimate on the repair, I took back my car without work being done on it. I got home, called the DEALERSHIP to get a price quote on a new drive shaft, which was $1,063. WTF?! The dealership wanted $200 LESS than what Larry's quoted me! When does that happen, when the dealer is cheaper? So, I got online, and found a new drive shaft in about 15 min. that was $435! And it was shipped to me for FREE in two days. After receiving it, I called and left a message at Larry's asking if they'd be willing to install it for me still. I never got a call back. Funny, considering they had been prompt to call me back in the past. So, I drove over to Emerald City Repair on 4th. Michael at Emerald City was the nicest mechanic I've ever come across. Bonus: Michael used to work at a "Volvo only" shop for years and even owns one. His price for the install? $123. So, by NOT going through Larry's I saved myself about $900, and found myself a great new trustworthy mechanic at Emerald City. Another bonus: I always had to wait a week to get in over at Larry's- Emerald City? Same Day. Warren over at Larry's seems like a nice enough guy, but c'mon! I'm going to get a plasma TV with all the money I saved myself.
Pros: Parking, close to home, expert Volvo repairmen
Cons: Price! Price! Price! Waiting a week or more just to get an appointment.
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