wannabe Volvo owner seeks advice on V70, '98-'99 model year

eric007 · Post by **eric007** » 12 Apr 2006, 13:08

I'm looking for advice, pro or con, regarding the purchase of ref volvo. I have always wanted to own one and think that the V70 would meet my needs but am unsure if a '98 or '99 with some mileage racked up on it would be a wise purchase. Would appreciate any advice regarding what to be wary of or about any known defects with these years of the V70.

Post by **mom** » 12 Apr 2006, 14:00

If you find a '98 in good condition, I would go for it.The major difference between '98 and '99 is the CAN network(communication between ECU and components) and the famous ETM that will eventually fail (thank god it's now covered by Volvo for 10 years/200 000 miles). These models had made the reputation of Volvo for security and they have evolved on the same platform for many years. If you do repairs by yourself, you will save a lot of money as these cars are not as complicated as they seems. If the car had no accident, you won't be disappointed.
One last thing; don't be afraid by the turbo, it should'nt fail if the car is well maintained.

Good luck and keep us informed !

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 12 Apr 2006, 17:40

mom, I agree with you on all of your points except for the CAN. Really, Volvo went to CAN in '05. The stuff you can't read on '99 through '04 is Volvo specific diagnostic stuff that still isn't CAN.

saltydog · Post by **saltydog** » 12 Apr 2006, 18:30

don't look at any car built after '98. PERIOD.

jabber · Post by **jabber** » 13 Apr 2006, 09:56

Saltydog,
I'd be curious why you feel this way... I have a 1999 S70 which has been nothing but a pleasure to own. I bought it as an off-lease used car and have been amazed at the way it has taken care of my family and I. Routine maintenance for sure but so far nothing unusual.

Jordan 1999 S70.

saltydog · Post by **saltydog** » 13 Apr 2006, 11:36

you can read all my other postings on this site to get an idea of why I feel the way I do & BTW, I'm not alone. My '01 XC by far the absolute WORST car I've ever been saddled with & believe me, I've owned some losers! Engineering is CRAP. Dealer is a good guy but factory support non existant. Resale value equal to Audi - zero. Car ranks right up there with Cavaliers & Taurus ie; it ain't nothin' special anymore, certainly not a Volvo as I know it. You're lucky enogh to essentially still have an 850 & your only issue is going to be the ETM (& ABS control unit) - good enough of a reason to steer clear of the '99. Other than that, P2 & pre-2003 AWD are monstrosities, & I'll go toe to toe with anyone who disputes that - I've got a motor lying on a shop floor right now that's dead at 100K miles with a full service history - that's premium build quality? That's not all, my list is endless, but my blood pressures rising again.......