BMC Volvo

Replaced Volvo V70 exhaust manifold/catalyst with a used unit they recommended I purchase to keep cost down. Work carried out on the same day / tested for exhaust fumes / passed O.K.

I was having a lot of problems with the turbo on my 2008 XC70. A local (non-Volvo) guy had tried to sort it to no avail - it clearly needed a Volvo specialist. I took it to BMC and they knew exactly what the issue was and how to fix it - they were able to get the turbo actuator reconditioned. A Volvo dealer wanted to replace the whole Turbo for well over £1000 plus labour. While the car was in, BMC also replaced the swirl flaps which had a broken arm (a fault I already knew about from my local guy). This was part of the reason why the cost seems high. The only drawback was I had to leave it there while the part went off for reconditioning but they supplied a loan car, so not a problem. They don't try to add on work that isn't needed and, unlike bigger places, you get to talk to the guy who does the work and they really seem to know what they are doing. I have been since with other work and had equally good service. No hesitation in recommending them.

This garage has been servicing Volvos in the Cheltenham/Tewkesbury area for some years, and I first became acquainted when I needed some advice over a faulty seat rake adjusting wheel (on my C30 T5), which could have been a more serious problem for all I knew. I received good free advice and obtained a new adjusting wheel at minimal cost, which solved the problem. I booked my car in this year for its annual service and MOT, having previously used larger, franchised Volvo dealerships but where I have been consistently disappointed by poor communications and a lack of trust - because of the layers/distance between me and the servicing engineer/mechanic. This time I received the service and MOT I expected, and had direct communication with the servicing engineer/proprietor, which engenders trust. Backing paperwork received was fully satisfactory, and the service book was properly stamped etc.