qs from new Volvo 850 owner

[Guest]

I bought a 1996 Volvo 850 S sedan (non turbo) just over 2 weeks ago.

I'm quite pleased with it so far and just have a few queries after looking through the manual today.

I tried the car jack (just to check how it works) and it was very stiff, even after adding oil. I guess the jack should (in theory) be in reasonable working order for the car to pass its roadworthy but the thread appeared rusty and I think this may account for the stiffness.

Is there anything else I can try to get the jack to work better? I doubt it works well enough to be able to raise the car to change a flat tyre but I'm assuming a Volvo jack would be expensive and it looks like the jackpoint is not suitable for a conventional jack.

I also read in the manual that a mix of 50-50 coolant and water should be used to top up the radiator. I don't thnk the coolant would be necessary in the warmer temperatures of Australia but it was emphasised a couple of times in the manual.

Is it ok to just use water to top up the radiator?

The manual says it is bad to let the engine idle after starting it because this creates excess wear and it is better to drive off straight away at a moderate speed to let the engine warm up but I always thought it was better to idle the engine to warm it up?

Is what the manual says correct?

The car has a few stone chips and the manual says they should be touched up to prevent rust but of course rust is less of a problem here. Is it worth bothering?

I would like to get a lockable fuel cap. Is there a cheaper/better option than getting one from the Volvo dealer?

The car comes with 3 year warranty from Preston Motors in Ringwood. The catch is that I have to get it serviced there at least once every 6 months for basic cost of $180. They sell all types of cars and are not really Volvo specialists but assure me they know how to maintain them.

Should I be able to trust them to service the car for next 3 years or should I also go to a Volvo specialist sometimes to ensure they are not missing anything eg the flame trap, which is supposed to be often overlooked.

Would be nice to hear from another 850 owner.

Dave

[Jot]

Volvo had a recall on some jacks. Check with the dealer. If not sure change the coolant with non-phosporus anti freeze 50-50 is correct.a Q-tip and matching paint will help prevent rust.Your fuel door locks when the car is locked