possible new owner with questions

Batman518 · Post by **Batman518** » 19 Jan 2004, 19:40

Hi,
I'm interested in getting a 850, and I found a 94 850 Turbo with about 70k miles on it. Test drive seemed very nice, and the interior and exterior looked fine. My questions is whether there are certain things I should look out for. Is there anything bad with these cars? My budget is fairly limited. The timing belt isn't changed yet, and he wants 6700 for it. what do you guys think???

Post by **matthew1** » 19 Jan 2004, 23:10

What is your most important Thing with cars?
1. performance
2. comfort
3. reliability
4. safety

Guest · Post by **Guest** » 19 Jan 2004, 23:38

1) Reliability
2) Comfort
3) Safety
4) Performance

That is how I will rank how my priorities are at this point in my life.

Post by **matthew1** » 20 Jan 2004, 10:21

Get a Toyota.

96R · Post by **96R** » 22 Jan 2004, 09:15

~70k miles is still low mileage, just check the follow items before you buy:

1) upper engine stabilizer mount. It is the rubber bushing on the "arm" that is attached to the top right side of the engine to the firewall. If it's broken, no big deal, have it changed My broke at 65k miles.

2) the serpentine belt and timing belt should be changed by this point. don't buy it unless they change it or drop the price.

3) Automatic transmission fluid flush. It should be done.

4) Check the brakes. Discs should be replaced if they are still the original.

5) If it has ABS/Traction, make sure no warning lights are showing on the dash. This unit breaks down regularly in 850s around that mileage. Replacement part ranges from $250-400.

6) Check the condition of the suspension arms and shocks.

7) Check for error codes in the engine computer (take it to the dealer or indy volvo mechanic).

If all of the above checks out, then the car should be fine. The car is reliable but has a predictable parts replacement schedule that includes most of the item above.

Post by **matthew1** » 22 Jan 2004, 10:58

96R is right on. I didn't mean to sound simple. But the front wheel drive Volvos are not the rear wheel drive 240s etc. of past. Those seemed to run for 200k miles just changing the consumables. The fwd are more finicky and need more maintenance $.

For power, comfort and safety, the modern Volvos can't be beat. For someone who puts repair or maintenance requirements above those, I'd say go to a Japanese brand. That's my $.02.

Batman518 · Post by **Batman518** » 24 Jan 2004, 13:04

Thanks for watching out. It made me more cautious about purchasing the car. So I did more research and brought along a BUYING USED CAR CHECKLIST and kept some good buying tips in mind. Found out the motor oil was milky white, which indicates oil leakage or something bad at least...Sadly, my confidence in Volvos have gone down