Volvo launches plan to spread servicing costs

Volvo has launched a new website allowing owners of Volvos up to 48 months old the opportunity to purchase a Volvo Service Plan, via either a one-off payment or a fixed monthly fee.

It works in a similar way to car insurance, where you have a choice of either paying monthly or upfront. The pre-paid service plans cover any service carried out on Volvos up to six years of age and up to a maximum of ten scheduled services. The plans are run in partnership with Allianz Global Assistance.

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It means that Volvo owners can spread the cost of maintaining their vehicle or pay everything up front, safe in the knowledge that all service items are covered for the duration of the plan.

The cost depends on the Volvo in question and the number of services included. We obtained a quote for a 2012 Volvo S60 T6 with 12,000 miles on the clock and, based on 60 months and 12,000 miles a year discovered it would cost either £1,714.04 upfront or £30.70 a month (after an initial pre-payment and slightly higher cost for the first seven months).

Increasing the annual mileage to 30,000 led to a jump from five to eight required services and an upfront cost of £3,150.78. The 46 monthly payments were a more manageable £58.48 a month, after an initial £66.07 per month for the first five months.

It’s worth noting that on a late 2012 Volvo V40 D2 Cross Country with 12,000 miles on the clock, the upfront cost for 60 months drops to £1,075 for 12,000 mile a year and £2,075 for 30,000 miles.

All services will be carried out at an authorised Volvo dealer, using genuine Volvo parts and delivered through the Volvo Service Promise. This includes:

- Mobility Solution: onward transport from the dealer

- Roadside Assistance: complimentary one year Volvo Assistance package

- Personal Service Contact: the customer will liaise with the same member of staff

- Vehicle Health Check: 29-point inspection

- Software Upgrade: to ensure the vehicle is up-to-date

- Car Clean: exterior will be washed and the inside vacuumed

There’s not a great deal to dislike about this service plan. The website is clear, the costs are transparent and there’s no obligation to take out a plan once you’ve obtained a quote. It should provide peace of mind to many Volvo owners.

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By motoringresearch.com