1998 S70 repair?

[EVN91]

Have a few issues with my Volvo S70 that I need to address. For one, the oxygen sensor needs replacement. I believe there are two oxygen sensors but I am not sure which one needs repair for the check engine light to disappear for me to pass emissions. Another thing is error code P0118, which I believe is the thermostat sensor that needs to be replaced for the fan to stop running full time. Last but not least, the car was in an accident and the SRS system went off. The airbags have been replaced but the seat belts need replacement as they have been torn out of the socket and no longer function. The car has 140k miles. Approximately, how much will these three repairs cost me as I'm attempting to figure out if it's worth taking to the mechanic or if I should sell as is. The car itself is in good condition and seems to run well. Does have an oil leak that the mechanic told me was too much work to deal with as their are multiple oil pans for this model...

[rspi]

Sell it. Sounds like you have had enough.

[rspi]

On second thought, CRUSH IT!

[jblackburn]

On second thought, CRUSH IT!

This isn't Volvospeed, get that crap outta here.

OP, what O2 sensor code do you have? It may not need a sensor at all. Seatbelts can be got from a scrapyard, coolant temp sensor is easy.

[mecheng]

The ECT is a easy fix, change the Thermostat while you are at it. ECT on these cars don't seem to last very long, it is a common failure. O2 sensors wear with age. It is usually the front O2 sensor, your mechanic should be able to scan and determine this. And yes, these cars leak oil typically from the turbo, if it is not major don't fix it but definetly get new belts.

[stephansvolvo]

On second thought, CRUSH IT!

LOL! Were you on vacation?

Take the time to do it yourself. A lot of the things that will come up are easy but, may take a couple of trips to the pull n save. Use the junk cars as test grounds but be courteous to not break stuff just to get your parts. You'll be proud of the car your driving by workin on it yourself.

[E Showell]

The O2 sensor, if you change the front only should be less than $100 for a Bosch part from Amazon through MVS (of course the sensors should be changed in pairs, but if you're strapped for cash and only can afford to do one, doing the front alone may well get you through emissions -- do the rear as soon as possible thereafter as well. Rear can be a little tougher and you might have to go to a shop for that). The ECT -- Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor should be somewhere around $55 from the usual suppliers and a thermostat around $20 or less (these are all approx.) FCP or Volvopartscountry.com are reliable suppliers and I believe both are Forum sponsors. The ECT/thermostat can be done DIY and isn't too rough. There are write ups. Among the trickier aspects of the thermostat replacement is removing the thermostat housing bolts. They are torx, soft aluminum and the heads can strip, or bolts snap if you aren't careful. Liberal soaking with PB Blaster for a day or two before you tackle the job will avoid these problems. Still, tolerances and clearances are tight for removing those bolts. You have to screw up your mouth just a certain way and hold the wrench just so -- but it is very doable. Same with the O2 sensor -- although if it is really welded in there with rust, you may have to put a torch on it to break it free. Sounds intimidating, and it was until the first time I used a torch to loosen a rusted bolt, but it isn't. You just have to be careful and use common sense.

The seatbelts I can't comment on, but I imagine it could be a pick-and-pull yard solution.

As far as keep or sell, I'd consider a few basic questions:

What do you know about the maintenance history of the car? If it has had regular oil changes with high quality oil, and they are documented, then 140 k on these cars constitutes nicely broken in.

What kind of shape is the suspension in? If it hasn't had major work done from day one, it probably needs new front struts and all ancillaries, and rear shocks -- not an inexpensive proposition, but what should be considered regular maintenance for any car and you're good for the next 120K miles.

How are the tires? Got some life left in 'em or will they need replacement?

How's the cooling system? Has the coolant been completely refreshed at any time during your ownership, etc., etc., etc.

In my neck of the woods, needing the work that it does, that's a $1500 (tops) car if the body and interior are in good shape. I doubt you could replace it with a car of similar quality for that.

Just a few things to think about. If you are inclined to keep it, then it would make a great deal of sense to embrace the vast storehouse of knowledge, experience and information that is this site, roll up your sleeves, get a few basic tools and begin to become car literate. It isn't exactly rocket science and this is a particularly supportive and enthusiastic community. I've done a lot to my two Volvos that I never would have even considered doing without this site providing information and encouragement.

Additionally, the oil leak could be the result of neglected PCV service -- in a shop in my area, that about a $600 job parts and labor. It isn't so parts intensive, but it will take time. Many have done that work themselves with instructions on this site. Alternatively, it could be something like a rear main seal leak which is a major job to replace a $10 part -- and one that I personally would leave to a shop. Can't comment on the cost of that since I've never had it done.

Finally, what is the car-payment-avoided value?

Good luck and let us know what you decide.

[blandis]

If/when you do the thermostat, replace the original housing bolts with a hex head bolt. Makes it much easier down the road to remove them if/when needed.

[erikv11]

There is only one oil pan for your model of car, in fact it is the same oil pan 94-98. I wonder if your mechanic may not be very experienced with these cars. That could be an issue.