My oldest son moved to Fairfax, VA back in August to start his first post-graduation job. He took my 1998 Volvo S70 with him for transportation.

The local Volvo dealer is Fairfax Volvo so I told him to take the car there for an oil change and tire rotation. He provided his own motor oil (Mobil-1 synthetic) for the oil change as the dealership uses conventional motor oil only.

The tires only needed rotation but the service dept. talked him into a rotation and balance (he didn't know any better). After he dropped of the car the service dept. called him suggesting that the engine coolant looked a 'little dark' and they would gladly do a flush and fill and replace the thermostat too for a cool $400. Fortunately, he had the presence of mind to call me and I told him it wasn't necessary.

The final bill for an oil change and a tire rotation and balance was over $110!! Sounded a little high so I had my son scan the bill and send it to me. I immediately noticed several things... They charged him the full price for the oil change even though he supplied the oil. They charged him $6 for a 'gasket' which is not needed for an oil change on these cars and they charged a $7.50 fee for unspecified 'shop supplies'.

I called to complain and the service adviser agreed that the 'gasket' charge was incorrect and he would ensure a credit was processed to my son's credit card. Three weeks later.... no credit. I called the service manager to complain and he said they'll get right on it.

Bottom line, I suggest staying away from this dealership... unless of course you don't mind getting ripped off!