Klaus,

As usual, you are a wealth of information. I too, felt the fact "the dealer does it too" was not a legitimate justification by my independent garage. I purposely "avoid what dealers do" which is why I go to an independent garage. I confess it annoys me I probably paid for an O2 sensor along with the labor that had not failed yet. Plus, it's my understanding, based upon the codes desplayed, you can differentiate whether the front or rear sensor has failed.

Klause, some questions which I mentioned before: Is it very difficult to remove these sensors? Is it imperative I have access to a lift? Can I do it on the ground with the car on jacks? Do you need special tools to remove the sensors?

On a personal level, I would like to duplicate the recent success experienced in repairing the ABS Unit on my 1999 XC (thanks to Victor Rocha)in replacing the O2 sensors. I know this repair will happen again, I just don't want to have to shell out $700 plus if I can avoid it.

I like the Volvo 850, and try to do as many of the repairs and maintenance that I can to over come a comment I heard on this column long ago, which although critical is true "850s are maintenance hogs". I still like my 850s, I'm just trying to reign in the cost of ownership as much as possible. Klaus, your response along with others has helped me do just that. Keep them coming! My only regret, is I wish I had similar knowledge to offer to those who have responded so thoroughly in the past to my inquiries. Thanks!

Hugh