Volvo XC40 Forums

Just booked my car in for its second service.
It’s on a 3 year maintenance plan but was surprised when the dealer said it’s recommended that the brake fluid is changed at 2 years and it’s not Included in the plan. (She said it was in the small print of the contract)
They’ve offered to relieve me of £89.99 to do it.
Anyone else had experience of this?

I’ve got a five year service plan and I’d expect to pay when my 2nd service is due. Used to happen when I had my Mini JCW serviced too. It would seem all manufactures have cottoned on to this little money spinner. They justify it because brake fluid absorbs water. When I was a motor mechanic many, many years ago, it never got changed.

A money spinner indeed.

Politely decline it or better still get them to test the water content of the brake fluid.

My two non XC40 cars are older Mercedes Benz, an A Class CDi180 and an a pampered SLK 350. Both go to an independent Mercedes specialist for servicing and every year he tests the brake fluid for water content.

It hasn't needed doing in either in 6 years although I admittedly don't do many miles in either.

Brake fluid does degrade over time but every two years is a bit over the top.

I bet that if the fluid change was included in the servicing package, it would miraculously become recommended every 5 years.

My present car, an Evoque, had to have the brake fluid changed when 2 years old. Probobly didnt need it.

I think they have everyone by the short and curlys.
If you ask the question online, the overwhelming response is 2 years

My car had its two year service 6 months ago just before everything changed and lockdown started.
No mention was made regarding the brake fluid, but the rear brake pads did require replacement after 22,000 miles

Two year service completed yesterday with the same "recommended brake fluid change" & not part of of the service plan message.

Must say the dealer wasn't really clear if/what/when this should be done or not & it felt like I was getting the fast food "supersize" option sales patter along with an imminent brake pad change requited in the near future. I did ask if fluid change decision this would effect the warranty - they couldn't shed any light on at all & moved the conversation on.

Did come away thinking the dealer wasn't 100% sold on the whole thing

Just had my car in for second year service I waited at the dealership for the car half way through the mechanic came to ask if I wanted the brake fluid changed I asked what the % moisture content was 1% was the reply I then asked at what % is is important to have the fluid changed 4% was the reply so I declined the offer £69 was the fluid change price .

Well done Trevor, no point in spending more than you need to.

I had a bit of a result on my second service. When i booked in by phone, they said brake fluid and a filter were recommended to be changed, to which I agreed. A few days later I decided not to have them done, and phoned to advise them. When I collected the car, the receptionist said what was due for the fluid change and filter (I'm on a service plan) I explained I had subsequently phoned to cancel and the lady checked the computer and said yes, and no charge due. A very pleasant attitude with no attempt to get me to even contribute. Mind you, this is Donalds of Ipswich, who I cannot praise enough for their attitude and workmanship.