'04 XC90 2.5T AWD - buying opinions

[Euro_Hobbs]

So my never ending search for an 850 seems to have taken a turn and now I'm looking for a bigger vehicle and I'll get the 850 next. I was initially looking at 4Runner since I know them really well (had 4 over the years) but I've always drooled over the XC90s and after researching them a little bit more I'm starting to debate getting one. I know I want a 2.5T AWD, preferably white and a 5-seater, bi-xenons, and the premium/climate package. My first question is, are these still a reliable option compared to say, a XC70 of the same years, given that they've been maintained of course. I know engine and transmission is the same but it's everything else I'm worried about.

Second question...I found one, it seems to have everything I wanted, decent service history from a local indy shop, but has a few issues. One, it was in an sideswipe accident, nothing that seemed serious but the fender and headlight look to have been replaced (all parts look to still be OEM Volvo units), no visible overspray or other damage that I could see either. Two, the radio doesn't work and there's an SRS service urgent fault that appears. From what I've read the SRS light could be anything from unhooking something without disconnecting the battery cable to the whole system being bad. I think the radio is what scares me more though since these are computer controlled and not just a standard head unit. I guess my question is, given these issues I've listed (car was beautiful beyond this, very solid and drove well) what would you think the chances are of it being a small issue or something that's gonna cost more than the cars worth. If I was considering it, I'd definitely still get an indy inspection too.

Sorry it this was confusing, feel free to ask any questions if you need clarification!

Thanks!

http://www.nagmonroe.com/2004-Volvo-XC9 ... tails.aspx

[precopster]

The owner may have tried to get into the head unit for a fiddle and accidentally disconnected and reconnected the ICM module with the battery connected which would give you an SRS warning.

On the other hand you could be facing major electrical issues.

The head unit can be replaced with one from the same year and model however look more closely at the vehicle before deciding. The head unit and SRS warning automatically remove $1,500 from the asking price at market value. Ask them how much it would cost to supply the vehicle with those items repaired. If they believe they're minor issues they won't flinch.

[Stravlr]

The XC70 and XC90 are worlds apart (IMO). While the foundation (electrical) is similar the 90 is more complex by at least 3x. If the indy can do a simple vida scan/reset - in front of you that will reset the SRS - assuming that, like the previous post says was due to an unplugged radio ect. If it doesn't reset - pass; as it could really be 1000's of $ for a fix. Also with the cost of the 04's in the sub 7K range you should have your pic - and not need to pick one with a damage history.

[Euro_Hobbs]

As pretty as it was I did pass on it.

I just found an '05 w/69K miles today (no xenons ) but it was in really good condition and no accidents on the carfax this time. Bad part....$9950

[oragex]

XC90's with the T6 engine had transmission issues in some years http://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/97 ... ansmission

At 70k miles a XC90 for $10k sounds like a pretty good deal.. perhaps you can bring the price to something around $8-$9k given the age.