2002 S80 model buying advice?

mcg122 · Post by **mcg122** » 01 Nov 2014, 21:00

Hi All,

I'm an old timer when it comes to Volvos, and I've been looking for a commuter car. There are so many S80's for sale, I'd like to get some advice as to which variations I should look for or avoid like the plague! I'm mostly looking for one owner type, with some maintenance records. I know what is a good price if I see a S70, S60 or wagons; but I'm not too sure with the S80's. So rather than trial & error I thought I'd see if there was a general agreement here about them!

Thanks in advance for your help!

mcg122 · Post by **mcg122** » 02 Nov 2014, 12:50

Actually, I'd consider any S80 in the $1500-$2500 range!
CL is loaded with them and I can't help but wonder why...

Post by **Matty Moo** » 02 Nov 2014, 15:38

mcg122 wrote:Actually, I'd consider any S80 in the $1500-$2500 range!
CL is loaded with them and I can't help but wonder why...

People usually don't sell older cars that are problem free. Go through the s80 forum on this sight and you'll get an idea why people are so eager to get rid of them.

Post by **dcarlson12** » 03 Nov 2014, 12:01

Based upon my own experience with my 99 S80-T6, I wouldn't go near an S80 from the first regeneration. I believe that went up to about 2006. Someone can correct me when the next generation came out. Maybe the next generation is better, I don't know.
It seems that the early generation, at least, was under engineered in the reliability/durability area of the motor/drivetrain and way over engineered/complicated in the bells and whistles area. Too many computers and not enough diagnostic ability to trouble shoot such complicated systems when something goes wrong. And don't go near the all wheel drive which uses a viscous coupling. I believe the new electronic controlled all wheel drive systems work better but again this seems like another complicated system to go bad.

Post by **precopster** » 03 Nov 2014, 15:32

I did see an immaculate S80 V8 with AWD afew months ago at the local Volvo Club meeting and wondered why it was not sitting in my driveway.

The 2.5T from 2004 should be a good enough proposition given easy usage and low miles. Personally I would stay away from them unless they have the 3.2 litre engine or V8 because they are heavy and they need that 6 speed transmission.

matt5112 · Post by **matt5112** » 07 Nov 2014, 06:15

That six speed also has issues that can occur in as little as 20k.

The S80 never used a viscous coupling for AWD, and is just as prone to collar gear issues as any P2.

The electronics are just a finicky as any P2 and require as well as support the same level of diagnostics as any P2.

They also have the same general problems as any P2.

These cars are 10-15 years old now. Rubber doesn't last that long, especially considering the high engine bay tmeperatures.

If you're not in love with the car and the idea of spending money to repair it, look for a car closer to the five year old mark.

Post by **chrism** » 07 Nov 2014, 21:48

When we were shopping for a used S80 a few years ago our local Volvo independent repair shop advised us to look for a 2.5T and steer clear of the six cylinder or twin turbo cars. So we followed their advice and haven't regretted it. We ended up with a 2005 2.5T and it's been a good car.

If you don't need a lot of rear seat leg room and you don't need the power of a turbo, you may want to consider an S60 NA. Especially considering the age you are looking at, simpler may be better. Plus the MPGs will be a bit better with the NA. Also, if you don't really need AWD I'd avoid it.

If I were to purchase another S80, I would be very careful and probably try to find one that's no more than about 6 years old. If it were an S60 NA or V70 NA I wouldn't be so afraid to go with a slightly older one.