Tensioner bearings failure on 99 V70

Did some searching on this group, and looks like this isn't an unknown
problem.

A couple weeks ago the tensioner bearings seized on my 99 V70, causing
the timing belt to cut through the cover, sending the pistons into the
head and cracking the valves (at least that's my understanding as a
non-mechanic - anyone who'd like to correct that understanding is
appreciated).

My mechanic says that total damage is around $3000 - $4000, depending
on how many valves were damaged and how much damage there is to the
head (which he won't know until he pulls it off).

Does that sound reasonable?

How common is this problem? Has anyone heard of Volvo ponying up and
paying any part of the cost? It's a 99 V70 with 76K miles, and the
first recommended replacement for the timing belt is at 105K, so it's
not like I missed a service....

At this point, I've talked to the dealer who says "tough luck", and
says that the regional rep isn't offering any help (not that I believe
the dealer is working on my behalf). Suggestions on what to try next?
I've thought of getting it fixed and suing the dealer in small claims
court (up to $2000 where I live) for selling me a defective auto.
Unlikely to work, but might annoy them enough to offer me a settlement.

Thanks for any suggestions!

 

Sorry to hear of your bad luck.
Changing is at 105k or 72 months which comes first to my knowledge.

Robert V70-II

 

I've heard it's wise to replace the tensioner when replacing the belt,
it sounds like you were very unlucky with that one though as the mileage
is not exactly high.

Cost to repair the damage sounds pretty reasonable but I sure would be
pissed if my car grenaded like that at only 72K, that's ridiculous. I
don't think the dealer is at fault here but it's the sort of thing Volvo
really should cover, they're likely to lose a future customer if they don't.

 

You are better off getting an exchange cylinder head from the dealer as
your mechanic will find out that the valve guides are not offered from
the dealer & finding the guides on the outside is next to impossible
Glenn

--
"*-344-*Never Forgotten"
Is for the New York City Firemen who lost their lives on September 11,2001.
The official count is 343, but there was also a volunteer who lost his life
aiding in the initial rescue efforts. And I will never forget them as
long as I live,
nor should any American.

 

The first change interval for a timing belt on my 99 S70 was 100 Kms
not 105 Miles so I would double check that info. When the belt is
changed it's always wise to replace the tensioner and the water pump
even if they haven't failed in order to prevent what you have
experienced. At 76K Miles you should have been fine but I doubt you
will get any help from Volvo. The beauty of an interference engine....


Jordan 1999 S70 Loaded!

 

It is very seldom that it happens and the petrol engine from Volvo is not
known for
making such problems. The service interval is 165 tkm or 10 years for
cambelt and tensioner.
One problem that can cause this is if the belt tension is too weak (belt
gets longer
with time) causing the belt to vibrate and then if you are unlucky suddenly
break into
pieces.

If your car is maintained in a volvo garage I would claim to the Volvo
Coorporation!

Cheers Per