Is it worth going to a main dealer for software updates on an eight year old car?

I have an eight year old V60, auto, diesel with 47000 miles on the clock. My Volvo dealer is quoting £652 for a full service including programme upgrades. A local Volvo specialist with a very good reputation is quoting around £300 for the same service but no programme upgrades. Is it likely that an eight year old car with a diesel engine is likely to need or get programme upgrades from a manufacturer that no longer makes diesel cars?

Asked on 1 July 2026 by Colin Montgomery

Answered by David Ross
Manufacturers continue to offer software updates for vehicles that have been out of production for some time, although the older the vehicle is, the less impact software updates are likely to have. Ultimately it is a matter of personal choice - a good independent will offer a quality of work that is equal to or possible better than a main dealer at a reduced cost, although for the time being at least you will have to do without the software updates, although they may be available to independent specialists in time. There is also the question of the vehicle's current service record - if it has a complete main dealer service history up to this point, you may wish to consider continuing this as it may make the vehicle more attractive to private buyers should you wish to sell it in the future.
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