Possibly Joining the XC90 Family

volvonewbie18 · Post by **volvonewbie18** » 26 Aug 2011, 07:57

hey guys,

Sooo...my 01 s40 has just recieved a terminal diagnosis. Blown Head Gasket (probably brought the car w/ this), Rod knocking in the engine block, and bad oil pump...they're claiming I need a new engine for a total of 4273.89 (volvo dealership). Thats just the problem stuff...i also need a passenger side rear view mirror, new passenger side front tire, probably new plugs/wires. In other words...for $2200 3 yrs ago...she's run her course.

Now lately I've been noticing the XC90s and I gotta say I have a serious crush on these models. The same dealership has an 05 XC90 AWD w/ 75k for $17,900..Carfax clean w/ a limited warranty. Now checking out the newer models, I must say that the 05 doesn't look nearly as sleek or "modern" interior wise, as the 09s and the 2010 version. I've noticed this trend w/ volvos as a whole though. Unfortunately, I dont wanna spend 30 something thousand on a car as this will be my very first time leasing a car w/ payments and all that. I'm thinking I'm going to get the 05, pay it off in 1-2 years (school refund checks) and as my credit improves possibly get a brand new one after I"m done w/ my Masters.

I've checked some reviews on line and found the usual one or two bad experiences here n there. Can anybody give me a heads up or an "initiation" of sorts on this model...I just love the way it looks but I know buying a car based on aesthetic value can be problematic.

Any advice would be extremely appreciated.

Post by **stone36** » 30 Aug 2011, 10:30

There are a number of "review" and Q&A posts on this site,

quick and dirty: for an 05 Don't get the T6, 2.5T is a great platform for both FWD ad AWD. 8-cyl seems to have good history as well. Owner history is more important than warranty IMO. You never want to actually have to use the warranty right? Make sure service was done correct/on time, at 75K there have been some "major" service intervals that have come and gone.

Search aound the site and you'll get alot of feedback. Good luck.

volvonewbie18 · Post by **volvonewbie18** » 01 Sep 2011, 21:26

Thanks for your help...I'll take a look around and see what I can find out.

thanks again