I'm looking at one being offered on Craigslist now, supposedly clean Carfax and dealer maintained.

What are common issues I should watch out for upon inspection? Is this a model I should stay away from?

I used to own a 1996 850 and was able to do some limited work on it, if that helps.

I'm already replacing my 850 regardless. The AC doesn't work (evap most likely), alternator is weak, it has 240K+ miles on it, and an annoying but manageable oil leak (RMS job needed), could use a paint job, plus the interior is pretty rough. I can do the alternator myself, but the rest needs a gara...

Hi all, I'm looking to buy a used Volvo to replace my limping '96 850. I checked it out and tried to notice what I can. 103K miles? Body is pretty good shape for its age. A couple small dents and scratches. Missing spare tire. The engine sounds high pitched compared to other Volvos I've driven. 850,...

Hi, I'm about to go look at a 2000 S80 with 124K miles for a possible purchase. I currently own a 850GLT, and have learned through this site many repairs for that car. I have a couple questions. I'm considering a few different models from this period like the V70, S70, and S60. How does the S80 stac...

Make sure the posts contact the terminals properly. I've had the same symptoms as you've listed. Make sure to use a voltmeter to check the connecting clamps themselves instead of the battery posts.

Just to update, I took my car on a 600 mile trip(not the best idea right after an overhaul by an amateur mechanic :/), and the oil leak rate is much better now. It may also be the other things that were replaced/changed. I'm now using 10w40 high mileage instead of 5w30 after the oil change, and I re...

I just got done this morning with the PCV replace. I had to replace a piece of tube I didn't get out of the IPD kit. It runs under the manifold to the flame trap housing. It broke in about three spots so I replaced it with a section of polyurethane hose. I hope that will do alright. Aside from that,...

I just got the kit in from IPD and am planning on doing the overhaul this afternoon. I'm hoping I can get by without having to lift the car. All I have is a 2-ton floor jack. Hopefully this process will go by with a minimum of broken parts and cursing.

That hose that crumbled was a vacuum line elbow piece. I did the plastic tubing and zip ties fix until I can get the PCV overhaul. I ordered the kit from IPD. I'll be getting it Monday I think. After removing the flame trap, the oil loss was reduced, but only at lower rpms(2.5K and under). If I run ...

It's impossible to see with the manifold in the way. Facing the engine bay from the front, you can feel down to the farthest part of the alternator away from you and you'll feel the head of the bolt. I had to use a straight wrench to turn that one, no room for a ratchet. If you still have trouble lo...