I recently blew the high-pressure line of my power steering. I rang my local Volvo dealer, and asked for a price for a new one. To my shock, I was quotes Australian$370 = 10%GST. I also asked for a price for hose for the low pressure line figuring that I may as well changes it at the same time, A$70 /meter +GST. Feeling a bit light headed, I decided to look for other alternatives. I pulled out the number of my local Volvo mechanic, and gave him a call.

“Yes, a genuine Volvo part would cost that much, but give these blokes a call.” The people I called where an industrial hydraulic specialist.

“No worries mate, we’ll make you one up using the old fittings, A$60 for the high pressure, and $18 / meter for the low pressure, including GST.”

Since I have had my Volvo, I have had to spend a fair bit on parts, and no matter what they are, they seem to be expensive ($120 for an OD relay for example).

The point of this post, other than to have a whine? Firstly, shop around for parts, and think in unexpected places. Secondly, a trustworthy mechanic is worth is weight in gold (especially it you need to replace a hydraulic hose). Thirdly, I was wondering if the prices of Volvo parts where similar in the US (ie. Outrageous).

Matt Jones
’84 240, 240,000Km (rolled over today!)