Potential new buyer

[wilsonstaff]

Hi to all, new to this forum. I always loved the V50. Time to get one before they get too old.

I know 2008+ (in North America) are more desirable but i have my eye on a 2005 T5 AWD automatic with 233000km. My questions are:

- is it a relative reliable car vs the 2.4 aspirated? Reliable overall?
- timing belt was supposely done at 190000km. How to check if done? When next replacement?
- are turbo prone to failure?

I can do most of suspension/brake/body repairs but not much on ECM, engine work.

Price is 2000$ CAN (roughly 1400US$)

Thanks for helping!

[BlackBart]

I have a similar question. I was just looking at these. I think they look great, and are a perfect size. But the newest ones are 2011? I see a lot of them already at 100k.

What is/was the reliability of this car? What were the problem areas? Is the 5 cyl the same as in the P2 chassis?

Thanks -

[E Showell]

I have heard (but only heard) that the oil pan on these cars is very exposed to road hazards, can get a knock and cause the sump to drain and fry the engine. If I were to get one, I'd be interested in investing in a metal belly pan to protect it. I think IPD sells them.

I've been tempted too since I like the styling and size, but I have had concerns since it was an "orphan" model -- shortish production run - same concerns as with the C30. Parts availability might get tough as they get up in age just because of the smaller production numbers.

[BlackBart]

Yeah, a skid plate is smart of any of those types of cars - My A4 wagon, my son's BMW E30 which is very low - we have heavy duty aluminum skid plates.

This was a Mazda / Ford / Volvo joint venture on the structural shell, chassis, and suspension, yes? Is that as far as it went?