Should I retire this 97 850 GLT wagon?

pr1009 · Post by **pr1009** » 09 Jan 2013, 19:26

I have a 97 850 GLT wagon. It drives really well and has been a great car. Mileage is around 180K. I'd like to sell it, but the check engine light is on and getting it smogged is proving to be difficult. The code P0455 keeps coming up. Smoke test revealed no leaks and I replaced the gas cap. Mechanic says next step would be to drop the fuel tank and check for bad hoses. This isn't a DIY for me, so I'm looking at $400 or so for something that may or may not fix the problem. On top of this, the car needs brakes, AC work (compressor and mode door motor), paint is iffy, and there are some electrical quirks. Bluebook is $2300 for fair condition, although I'm not convinced I can get that. I'm thinking about retiring it for the $1000 CA offers. Would anybody agree with this decision, or are there alternatives I should consider? Thanks for the feedback.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 09 Jan 2013, 19:35

Dropping the fuel tank is a bit extreme to deal with a P0455 code. You can make your own smoke tester with a garden sprayer and a smoke source like a cigarette or incense. Let the garden sprayer fill with smoke and then pump it in slowly from the tank side of the purge valve. From there look around the tank for a leak, it is often a cracked hose that leads up to the fuel tank which isn't the end of the world to change.

That said, if you aren't in a position to deal withe the repairs yourself, it might just be time to get what you can out of it and move on. The dealers and many of the competent independent shops see a Volvo and they seem to think it is rape and pillage time. It largely depends on whether or not you still like the car.

...Lee

pr1009 · Post by **pr1009** » 09 Jan 2013, 19:39

Thanks for the sound advice - much appreciated.

Post by **Pauloil** » 09 Jan 2013, 20:27

so I gather the easily replaceable valve up front is OK

starbug · Post by **starbug** » 09 Jan 2013, 21:11

I have a 95 850T and I love it. Had a bit of work done, has more mileage on it than yours, but it's still a trooper. No DIY by me. If I were in your shoes, I'd probably fix it up and keep it, but if it feels like it's not worth the bother, selling it to someone who can manage some DIY might be a good idea.

Good Luck whatever you choose.

pr1009 · Post by **pr1009** » 09 Jan 2013, 22:18

Thanks for the replies. I'd love to pass it off to someone who wants to fix it up, but I believe I would have to declare it non-op to sell without evidence of current smog certificate, so that's my dilemma.

Post by **rspi** » 10 Jan 2013, 07:02

Put it on eBay or somewhere where someone can buy it that doesn't have to deal with emissions. We have no inspections here in Arkansas. Our cars are subject to a spot inspection in event we get pulled over by police for another reason. I have not heard of it happening in the past 5 years.

Post by **rmmagow** » 10 Jan 2013, 11:08

Ozark Lee, I like that suggestion for a poor man's smoke machine! Now I have an excuse to steal one of my wife's tools!