QuestionHi,
I have gone through a lot with the car and am nearly at my wit's (and checking account's) end. After seeing an independant mechanic who fixed what he could and sent me to the Volvo dealer, I was told at the Volvo dealer that I had to replace the Oil Seperator (PCV BOX) to the tune of $800, of which, $650 was not parts. I asked how they tested for this and if it could be cleaned and was told, "It couldn't be cleaned, and the tech felt the thing blowing rather than sucking." (roughly speaking). After a little research online, I felt that it might be cleaned (or at least the TSB that I looked at suggested cleaning as THE fix, and made no mention of replacement.
I picked up the car and hooked my diagnostic monitor up to it. The original problem that I brought it in for (Check Emissions computer warning, 02 Heat Sensor) now registers as fine (they did upgrade my software with Recall 155). But I am getting a code p0442 (EVAP Emission Control System Leak (small)). The MIL light is on, but it's pretty much always been on, even after multiple thousands spent at my old Volvo dealership in Missouri.
My questions:
#1 - Is this code something that might indicate the PCV replacement? Doesn't seem like it to me, but I'm an economist, not a mechanic.
#2 - Is replacement of the PCV Box really necessary?
#3 - If so, is $800 what I should expect to pay for it?
#4 - Also, can this be done by a regular mechanic, or only at the dealership?
Thanks for your help.
Answer#1 The code does NOT suggest flametrap (PCV) replacement. The flame trap should only be replaced when it is causing problems. The blowing will cause other oil seals to blow out and leak causing more costly repairs.
2# If it is blowing as opposed to sucking, yes it should be done. If the seals are leaking around it, it should also be replaced. You can look at it yourself. Its under the intake manifold next to the alternator. If there is any oil/dirt under it, it is leaking.
3# The flametrap wioth seals is about 65, with the labor being 4 hours at 105 and hour. I guess that comes out to about 500 with taxes and such. Thats what we charge. Labor rate and other fees may be different where you are. Get them to go through the price breakdown with you. If it is more than 5 hours of labor they are trying to rip you off. 4-5 hours is normal depending on the car (some are more problematic than other).
4# It can be done by anyone BUT special tools are required to remove one of the bolts. It is a dealer tool (special wrench) to get the bolt on the left side of the box off. It is behind the A/C bracket. An independent would have to remove alot more items (bumpingup the labor charge), break your a/c bracket to get to it, or buy the tool from the dealer and possibly charge you for it.
That code indicates a leak in your fuel vapor recovery system. Leaks are not very common on that car however. Your most likely problem is the pump that is used to determine if there is a leak. It should be replaced to fix that code. It is ontop of the rear subframe next to the charcoal canister. It is very difficult to get to so that may also become an expensive repair.
James
