Get behind the wheel of a Volvo, and you will understand their reputation for comfort, handling, and, most of all, safety. Ever since they began making vehicles, Volvo has remained a major innovator in the realm of vehicle safety, introducing game-changers like a three-point seatbelt, the first rear-facing child seat, side impact airbags, and more recently in 2008, their City Safety system.
Safety might be their forte, but the dependability of Volvos is little to write home about. Volvos are a mixed bag for reliability, with some models notorious for their likelihood of ending up in the workshop. Overall, the brand may incur higher maintenance costs while having a lower probability of needing a significant repair than other luxury car brands.
Be ready when your Volvo requires replacement parts. Every additional kilometer clocked in your Volvo increases the probability of part failure. Regular maintenance is vital to avoid the need for costly repairs. Some components may wear out faster than others, so you should check and replace them as needed.
Find out the traits of your Volvo's parts and replacement options to make a well-informed decision when shopping for auto parts.
Sourcing Volvo Parts (OEM vs. Aftermarket)
Besides being new or used, auto parts for your Volvo can fall into one of two categories - OEM or Aftermarket. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are original parts used by car manufacturers, and "Aftermarket" parts refer to those made by third-party manufacturers but are also usable in the vehicle.
These two types of parts each have their respective advantages. OEM parts are made to Volvo's high standards and have a more extended warranty. On the other hand, aftermarket parts are usually less expensive and may offer more choices in terms of design and customization, depending on the part you need.
The choice should be clear if you aim to return your Volvo to as close to its original condition as possible. Because of the more stringent levels of manufacturing, you'll likely get more use out of an OEM replacement. Furthermore, not only are aftermarket parts not covered by Volvo's warranty, but they could also void Volvo's warranty and damage your vehicle when installed.
Don't assume that aftermarket parts will always be cheaper than the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) when shopping for replacement parts. Sometimes, the aftermarket option can be more expensive and lower in quality. It's essential to research and compare prices and reviews before making a purchase decision.
What Are the Most Important Parts of Your Volvo?
It would be best if you placed the highest priority on the following parts because of their roles in contributing to the performance and safety of your Volvo. They aren't all expensive, but if one thing's certain, taking care of them with the proper maintenance and early detection can go a long way to ward off potentially costly problems.
Engine
The engine is its primary power source, burning fuel to produce the mechanical energy to drive your Volvo. It can be as expensive as it is complicated, with repairs being notorious for their exceptionally high cost due to the need for replacement parts and specialized staffing. Users have reported the 2010, 2015, and 2019 model years of the XC60 to have overheating engines.
Transmission
For both the automatic and manual, the transmission of your Volvo transfers power from the engine to the wheels while using gear ratios to keep the engine in its power band, allowing it to run efficiently. The transmission sees constant usage and, consequently, high wear and tear. Like the engine, repairing this complicated equipment can be more than buying a replacement. Some owners have reported problems with the 2003 XC90, including rough shifting and total transmission failure. The transmission issue typically arises after the vehicle reaches 160,000 km and may require a complete replacement.
Lights
Your lights help you see, be seen, and convey your driving intentions. Ensure you replace damaged lights or blown bulbs to ensure your road safety. Volvos are notorious for the short lifespan of their headlights, so you'll be spending more on replacement bulbs over time. If this occurs too frequently, pay a trip to your trusted mechanic to see if it is a wiring issue.
Brakes
The brakes on your Volvo enable you to consistently slow your vehicle down or bring it to a safe and complete stop. Brake parts such as pads and rotors wear down faster than others and must be replaced regularly. In contrast, parts like the master cylinder, calipers, and wheel cylinders could develop leaks and cause poor braking. You can purchase these car parts individually if ever the need arises.
The battery is responsible for making your Volvo start. You must watch for signs of a failing battery to ensure your Volvo starts smoothly. Look for slow engine cranking and a Battery/Charging warning light that may indicate your battery is nearing the end of its life.
Which Volvo Parts Wear Out the Fastest?
Consumables
The parts which wear or run out the fastest in your Volvo are your "consumables", namely, engine oil, coolant, nuts and bolts, oil filters, brake pads, spark plugs, and wiper blades, with tires and batteries possibly falling under the same category by some definitions.
Remember the warning signs that signal these parts are at low levels or worn down since you wouldn't want to operate your Volvo with components that have lost their functionality.
Water Pump
Perpetually pumping coolant from the radiator to the engine to flush heat away from the engine's various parts, the water pump gets no time for a breather. The water pump has a lifespan of around 97,000 km.
Suspension
How smooth the roads you drive on are, the weight of the loads carried by your Volvo and how frequently you load your vehicle, and your overall mileage all factor into the lifespan of its suspension.
If you maintain your Volvo's suspension properly, it can last up to ten years. However, if you have not taken good care of it, the lifespan can decrease to five to eight years. You will know if there is an issue with your suspension when you start experiencing rough rides. For Volvo owners with optional air suspension, there may be a higher likelihood of leaks in the system, which can lead to compressor failure. You may need to replace the air springs to fix this.
Are Volvo Parts Expensive?
Volvo parts are not all that expensive compared to other luxury cars, though they might seem so against parts from the average car brand.
Where to Buy Genuine Volvo Parts Online
You can shop at authorized Volvo dealers and OEM part retailers in your country for brand-new OEM parts. Are you searching for ways to save more money without compromising on quality? Opt for second-hand OEM parts available at great prices here with BE FORWARD Auto Parts!
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