2004 S60 2.5T SE - anyone help with an estimate for a list of faults

[ilmiont]

Good evening all,

New here and on the verge of getting my first Volvo, also my first car, although it won't exactly be immediate given the state of the world.

Seeking opinions on a 2004/54 S60 2.5T SE, one of the very first facelift cars. Very attractive spec, with the engine and trim level I've been wanting, and a great price tag attached.

However... there's a long list of faults, as advised by the seller (who does appear to be genuine).

1. Handbrake shoes apparently need doing (handbrake sticks on cold mornings).
2. Steering column squeak and anti-skid service messages, seems to be the clock sensor
3. Clutch master brake cylinder has a minor pressure leak; cruise control won't engage

Recently passed MOT at a garage which the seller says is independent and reputable and who has seen the car for several years. Passed the MOT with all of those faults above present.

Immediately after the MOT, the following issues also appeared, as advised by the seller:

1. Check engine light illuminated; seller's mechanic diagnosed it as crankshaft sensor which has not been replaced (apparently owing to the mechanic considering it to not impact regular use and not having time given the current circumstances)
2. Alarm sensor service messages on the trip computer.

From what I've read about these cars, which is a lot now, the major issues (clock spring, camshaft sensor, alarm system) all seem to be fairly common S60 issues at a certain age, and it looks like everything is failing at the same time.

The car is otherwise in good condition, although I haven't seen it in person yet, obviously, and as I said, it's a very attractive spec and I've got a good gut feeling about it. The seller does seem genuine and has been very upfront about the issues.

Still, I have to ask... would you, bearing in mind that you generally like the car, take a 2004 S60 2.5T SE with that little list of known faults?

And if you would, what would you expect to pay? I'm thinking it's going to need £1,000 - £2,000 put into it fairly soon after buying.

My most immediate concern is the alarm system, as it will be left on the public road so I can't risk the alarm failing and sounding spontaneously. Is that likely to happen?

[ilmiont]

Oh and to add to the above - it's about 130k miles and climbing, in regular use and has been since the MOT.

[ionianp2]

The alarm siren module is a fairly easy fix. I did it myself. A common failure is the battery which corrodes and leaks over the board.

There are videos on YouTube how to remove it. Easiest way in my opinion is to remove the alarm module by removing the front right headlight and bumper, could be left if your car is RHD. 20' job to do. A matching used one can be fairly cheap $60-$80 (vs $250 new) here, but what I advise is to change the battery in one of these which requires hacking it with a saw. SiRobb has a good video on YouTube for it.


I repositioned it rotated 180 deg so that the battery never leaks on the board again.

As for the rest of the issues I will defer to other Volvo experts.

[oragex]

Dont touch. The leak is from the clutch slave cylinder, the complete clutch assembly needs replaced very soon, engine out job, very expensive parts and labour. Thats why he is selling it.

[EngineeringBloke]

Also probably due for timing belt change (if not already done - typically, there will be a sticker with details in engine bay as proof). About $600 at independent mechanic. Water pump change not needed until second timing belt change.

At 16 years and 130K, if it was not done, then the owner probably did not take care of the car and failed to do necessary preventative maintenance.

[ilmiont]

Ended up buying the car. Good price even factoring in some likely quite pricey work. Will be taking her in to get as much done as possible in the near future.

Re. the timing belt - done in February and only 3k miles since then. Mine now anyway! May prove to be a foolish purchase but I'm enjoying it so far.