Hello, and help with pre-purchase inspection in California.

gcb · Post by **gcb** » 13 Jun 2010, 01:46

Hi,

just signed in. I'm currently looking for a my first volvo. will probably be some intermediate model from 1998 to 2002.

i'm looking for a mechanic to do a pre-purchase inspection in California.
Any chance you're around? or can point me to someone? Thank you.

Besides that, what can i say. i'm new to the US and can't finance a car :-/ until 5yrs acording to the dealers i've been to.
so i have to buy something old in cash that wont fall apart in a couple days. Any tips on what to look for would be greatly appreciated.

gcb · Post by **gcb** » 13 Jun 2010, 12:51

also, what's about the bar crossing the engine, over the front shocks? i've seen a couple s60, 70 and 80. and some have. some doesn't. some even have a yellow one.

Post by **polskamafia mjl** » 13 Jun 2010, 12:57

That bar is called a strut brace and as far as I know they only come as an after market item. In addition if you are looking for reliable and rugged DO NOT get a 2000 - 20002 model year Volvo. Ideally if you want something bullet proof that is cheap to maintain you want an 80's era 240 or the later 700 series. The years you are looking at are too narrow for your needs. If you really want a "modern" Volvo then include the 94 - 97 850 series as well as the early model s70's. The 2003 to present Volvo's will probably be out of your price range.

Post by **matthew1** » 14 Jun 2010, 12:25

^^^ Agree with Polskamafia on everything he said.

Please let us know more, especially a) how much $ will you spend and b) how good are you working on cars?

Volvo Buyers Guide has much information for you. Take some time to sit down and read about the various Volvo models.

Welcome!

850 Turbo1 · Post by **850 Turbo1** » 14 Jun 2010, 13:07

This is no Renault Twingo...lol

Stay away from 2001-2002...these were really bad models due to transmission issues

Cheers!

Post by **igel513** » 14 Jun 2010, 14:12

R u by any chance in the San Diego Area?

gcb · Post by **gcb** » 14 Jun 2010, 20:18

Thank you all for the information. i'm going to read that buyers guide and include the suggested models in my search.

I am in Los Angeles Area.

Btw, people looking for volvos here. there a goup trading a large amount of 'heated' ones. really scary.