2004 Volvo V70- looking to purchase

[volvooh]

I am looking at 2004 V70, 205,000 mi. I have 3 other 70 series vehicles so I am somewhat familiar with its more common problems.

Any particular issues on this model year? Did a little research and it appears to be a decent model year, not plagued by the tranny issues of the 2001.

I have a 1998 V70 with 225,000, so the mileage does not scare me unless there are particular issues with this model year.

Thanks!

[850 LPT]

I would not hesitate if the car you are looking at has been well maintained, I think that's the key. I bought an 04' V70 with the same kind of miles for my daughter this spring. The car had been super well taken care of by an older couple with everything done like clockwork at a dealer or indie mechanic. Together we put almost 10k on it so far with zero issues and it just passed the 200k mark.

On the other hand, if the car you are looking at has signs of neglect, it could mean trouble. These cars have "sealed" transmissions, which I believe is bogus. The dip stick is buried way down in the engine compartment possibly to discourage you to do service on your own. Make sure the fluid has been changed and it shifts fine. Also at 205k the next timing belt is due pretty soon, be prepared.

Good luck.

[yagger]

Any particular issues on this model year?

Will be good, if you check CEM. Drive on car 20-30 minutes with hot air from A/C to lags. If you will hear some clicking sounds like relay from that area, it means CEM should be to replace. The same time you can see problems on dashboard... ))

[abscate]

I think the 2004-5 had a water incursion recall on the dash on driver side - see if that has been done.

On edit - 2005 MY only - with VIN break.

[oragex]

I bought an 04' V70 with the same kind of miles for my daughter this spring. The car had been super well taken care of by an older couple with everything done like clockwork at a dealer or indie mechanic. Together we put almost 10k on it so far with zero issues and it just passed the 200k mark.

That's called winning the lottery


There are forum members with 200K cars in great condition, but that's because they've put the time and sometimes the money into it. 8 cars out of 10 out there will have repairs to be done by 200k. There are already several repairs needed by 100K, you can imagine at 200K same repairs need redone, plus new ones. That's just mechanically speaking.

The transmission was not perfect after 2004, no one changed the oil and the solenoids get clogged and shift more harshly. Drive it 20 min so get the fluid warm. Replacing the solenoids is not that bad and a good idea if you're keeping it long term. Other points to be checked are front suspension, PCV, exhaust flex downpipe, CEM can get water inside. You are also assured to have a water pool under the dry carpet. But generally speaking, these are solid cars and last when maintained (ok, the suspension is good for only 100k but nothing is perfect)