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In the late 80's when I started the business,  a system called AllData was created that would allow you to access automotive repair information via a dial up connection.  This was long before the internet and email.  I signed up and could not wait to put it to use.  I was a little disappointed because the technology just wasn't good enough at that time.  Since that time AllData has become a leader in the delivery of automotive repair information electronically.  Along with the regular repair information, we receive recalls, factory service bulletins and routine maintenance guides.

Today's cars are more complicated than ever, it seems like just about everything is connected to and controlled by a computer.  To repair today's Volvos, you need access to Volvo's repair information.  In fact there are some repairs on the 1999 and newer models that cannot be performed without access to Volvo's repair application.  When Volvo's online system was introduce, we again were one of the first to subscribe, not just locally but nation wide.  That system was named VIRA or Volvo Independent Repair Application.  This system is being phased out for a newer design.  The new system is purchased on a subscription basis and has two variations.  You can access the information via a web site (iVadis) or via a DVD (Vadis).  The Vadis system is the exact same system used by the Volvo Dealers and within weeks of it's availability, we again were one of the first to purchase it.

Volvo began producing vehicles with electronic diagnostic communications in 1989.  The diagnostic system made available to the dealers at that time was the VST or Volvo Scan Tool.  If the dealer had one, then I had to have one.  This is one tool I could not live without.  It has proven to be invaluable.     

To prepare for the repairs that would be needed as the new IM240 emission testing started as part of the 1995 clean air act, we purchased the top of the line Snap-On portable emission analyzers.  We soon learned this portable technology was not yet up to the task.  Snap-On took this unit back giving us a full credit toward our now top-of-the-line 5 gas exhaust analyzer.  This unit has performed without a flaw.  

All the special tools available to the dealer are also available to us or you the consumer at SPX.  We have also been know to make our own special tools in the event there is nothing available or what is available does not perform satisfactorily.  This is just a few examples of the importance we place on having every possible resource available to us to service and repair your Volvo efficiently.