I have a Volvo V70 D5 registered in August 2008, with 41000 miles. It's alternator failed in late June 2012. The quote to repair from a Volvo dealer was £750. They refused to acknowledge that this an unusual failure and that there is an element of safety involved despite the fact that there was a definite burning smell from under the bonnet. They insisted that the car not be driven. I took it to a mechanic 300 yards away and had the car repaired by having it reconditioned.

I then contacted Volvo UK who told me goodwill would not be considered as the car had only been serviced once in the Volvo network. It has actually only been serviced three times, and twice at the Volvo dealer who I bought it from. The last service was an oil change service at 37000 miles.

I contacted Volvo Sweden who told me they cannot help because my car is actually 5 years old as it was built in August 2007. Volvo UK says the car is only 4 years old as it was registered in August 2008. Who is right, and what can I do?

The repair cost me £305 but I am worried that my car may be worth less than I think and more likely to break down as it may have been stored outdoors for much longer than I thought.