This message is specifically intended to express just why I think Volvos Only is a crappy shop, and why anyone in Portland, Oregon or thereabouts should never consider using them for service.

Before my rant, I would like to say I've had good experiences at these two shops:

Alamo Automotive - Slow work, but they are able to fix anything and charge good prices

The Volvo Garage - fast fast FAST. Professional, no B.S. More expensive than Alamo. Owner is kinda a jerk, but no complaints about the service.

Ah, now onto Volvos only.
I brought my Volvo 245 into VO for service for 3 conditions: 1) "hot" reading on the temp gauge 2) wiring problem on rear tailight (melts fuses, does not illuminate) and 3) fuel pump whine at all speeds. I let them know that the fuel pump and in-tank pump were relatively new. Also note I never said my Volvo was overheating (because of my experience in warranty claims with GM (sucky)). Just that the gauge read hot and I didn't know why. After 3 days longer than initially promised, Jim called me to let me know that 1) Fuel pressure test came out okay but no word on the cause of the whine 2) brake light works, no repair (I made the mistake of saying "brake light" instead of "tail light") and my temp concern could be traced to a worn water pump. I okayed the water pump replacement and mentioned that my thermostat was new (I had replaced it myself). I got a new thermostat anyway. I remeber reading on the the brickboard that fram fuel filters clog easily, so I requested that the be changed while he was there. At least that problem was solved by reading the brickboard! After picking up my car, I noticed that the tail light still did not work (duh, no repair)...Jim arranged to have my car back in. After driving for 2 minutes my gauge read hotter than before. I called him when I got home and let him know that "the replacement on the water pump did not fix my 'hot reading' concern (warrantyese)." He said he would look at it when I brought it back...which, against my better judgement, I did. (sidenote, after the pump replacement, the car leaked coolant at exactly the same rate as before their "repair," cause...leaky old hose that I replaced). The second trip did fix a wiring problem that caused my tailight to not work and also yielded a new wrong diagnosis for my hot gauge reading...failed temp sensor. After picking up the car and driving for 2 minutes the gauge read again ...uber hot. Now, I'm pretty POed. I called him immediatley and advised that "the replacement of the temp sensor did not fix the 'hot reading' condition." Since I know my radiator is good, and I have a new pump, thermostat, sensor, and hoses (fan clutch seized, so I've got plenty of airflow), I conclude that this must be either the 1)gauge or 2) wiring to the gauge. A 2-minute inspection reveals a partially broken wire. Viola! Problem solved. Jim was kind enough to provide a 3 cent splice for my trouble though and even offered a "good deal" on a new fan clutch...No thanks!!!

My complaints
1) I paid for a fuel system diagnosis that did not tell me why my pump whined. I had to guess myself (correctly, thank god)

2) I paid for thermostat I definitely did not need

3) I paid for a water pump I didn't need and probably was working fine, as the "leak" I was probably the same leak that remained after replacement...the hose connection

4) The rest of my rear-facing lights were not checked after the brake lights proved functional

5) I paid for a temp sensor I did not need

6) I TOLD a mechanic (who only works on Volvos, of which the 200s are the most common, after paying him for a diagnosis and giving him multiple opportunities) what was wrong with my car, and guess what? IT WAS OBVIOUS!!!!

7) After clearly expressing that I was dissatisfied and why, I was offered a 3 cent splice and a "good deal" on a part (I've never paid less than double the internet rate on parts from them).

I hope that lots of potential customers read this. Also note, every time I've been into VO, they have recommended a master brake cylinder replacement to someone....be very wary!!!!