Will a change of transmission oil solve a fault with my Volvo V70 automatic?

My car is a 2007 Volvo V70 diesel automatic with 54,000 miles. It is serviced by the Volvo dealer as required. When towing a caravan (but only then) I get a warning saying 'Transmission service required' after travelling 30 - 40 miles. I advised the dealer who carried out a check at a cost of £29. He recommended that the transmission oil should be changed (at a cost of £250) but cannot guarantee that this will solve the problem. There is also a solenoid, which he says may be sticking. I would appreciate your opinion on whether the oil change is likely to clear the problem and whether his charges seem reasonable?

Asked on 14 December 2013 by SL, via email

Answered by Honest John
When you tow with an automatic that does not have additional transmission oil cooling, the transmission oil is prone to overheat and burn. I suspect that is what has happened to yours. The solenoid will be in the servo valve box that controls the transmission gear changes. A specialist can recondition these, but a dealer will usually prescribe a new valve box at a cost of around £2500.
Similar questions
I have a 2003 Volvo V70 2.4 auto which has done 110,000 miles. Apart from being a little clunky in the morning the auto box is fine and smooth. However, the Volvo forum is emphatically of the view that...
I own a 2011 Volvo V70, it's done 48,000 miles. It's always been serviced by a Volvo dealer and I use it for towing a 1500kg caravan about 4000 miles per year. Please advise any steps I should take, over...
I can't locate the oil filling plug on the automatic gearbox of my BMW 523i E39. It looks different to that shown in the Haynes Manual and Youtube videos. The only plugs on the back of the gearbox and...
Related models
Big and practical estate. Perfect for families. Good cabin quality. Plenty of safety kit as standard.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer