New 850. What stuff are a MUST to replace/repair if the maintenance history is unknown?

[Sveedy]

'96 has ODB2. I have been working my way through the repairs and maintenance issues on my '96, and have 0 regrets. I didn't have history on mine either, so I did the following ASAP in this order:
Timing belt/water pump/serpentine belt etc
PCV system
Motor mounts
Plugs /wires
Coolant hoses
Vacuum hoses
Fuel filter
At times it can feel a bit like eating an elephant, but one bite at a time and you'll get there.

[eightfifty2x0]

'96 has ODB2. I have been working my way through the repairs and maintenance issues on my '96, and have 0 regrets. I didn't have history on mine either, so I did the following ASAP in this order:
Timing belt/water pump/serpentine belt etc
PCV system
Motor mounts
Plugs /wires
Coolant hoses
Vacuum hoses
Fuel filter
At times it can feel a bit like eating an elephant, but one bite at a time and you'll get there.

Awesome list and awesome suggestion! Yeah, i agree, it feels like a huge amount of stuff to repair/replace, but it definitely worth it.

Question - how ciritical is to scan the computer for faults with an OBD2 scanner?

[Sveedy]

I bought a scanner to read / clear codes. Important tool to have, though I have only needed it twice - so far. Here you can always go to a parts supply store and they can usually scan / clear codes for no charge.

[Sveedy]

Honestly you'll find this site ( MVS) to be one of the most valuable tools you could have. Don't think I could have accomplished all I have done without it.

[eightfifty2x0]

Honestly you'll find this site ( MVS) to be one of the most valuable tools you could have. Don't think I could have accomplished all I have done without it.

Though am new, it seems to be the case

[xHeart]

Honestly you'll find this site ( MVS) to be one of the most valuable tools you could have. Don't think I could have accomplished all I have done without it.

Though am new, it seems to be the case

This is a relevant maintenance log viewtopic.php?f=35&t=46831

[eightfifty2x0]

This is a relevant maintenance log viewtopic.php?f=35&t=46831

How tricky is to replace the timing belt and the water pump? Does it require extra mechanical knowledge? What tool does one need for the job?
Because i asked at a workshop that specializes on Volvos and they said that for a timing belt and water pump change they charge 350€(almost 400 dollars). Is it worth it to take the car there?

[xHeart]

This is a relevant maintenance log viewtopic.php?f=35&t=46831

How tricky is to replace the timing belt and the water pump? Does it require extra mechanical knowledge? What tool does one need for the job?
Because i asked at a workshop that specializes on Volvos and they said that for a timing belt and water pump change they charge 350€(almost 400 dollars). Is it worth it to take the car there?

$400 with parts is a good deal. BUT, you do not want aftermarket parts.

DIY this car else mileage and age will drain your pocketbook. It is best to use OE/OEM parts for critical service, such as AISIN for water pump, INA for pulley and tensioner, and something like Conti for belt. Include serpentine belt and tensioner to0o

This may help some https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/faile ... ilure.html

[eightfifty2x0]

This is a relevant maintenance log viewtopic.php?f=35&t=46831

How tricky is to replace the timing belt and the water pump? Does it require extra mechanical knowledge? What tool does one need for the job?
Because i asked at a workshop that specializes on Volvos and they said that for a timing belt and water pump change they charge 350€(almost 400 dollars). Is it worth it to take the car there?

$400 with parts is a good deal. BUT, you do not want aftermarket parts.

DIY this car else mileage and age will drain your pocketbook. It is best to use OE/OEM parts for critical service, such as AISIN for water pump, INA for pulley and tensioner, and something like Conti for belt. Include serpentine belt and tensioner to0o

This may help some https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/faile ... ilure.html

I was thinking getting the timing belt done at the workshop and all else by me.
Btw, you didnt answer on the timing belt change

[ZionXIX]

Search youtube for "RobertDIY". He has fantastic videos on nearly everything related to 850 volvos as well as timing belt tutorials. Its important to get the timing correct to avoid damage to the engine. Watch the videos and then decide if you're up for it. Most if it can be accomplished with basic socket set but you will need the ability to remove the passenger wheel and you will need a way to release the tension on the serpentine belt. Lots of creative diy methods on here. It took me 2 afternoons to change my water pump, tensioner, timing belt the first time around.