What year XC70 should I get as a daily?

MariannaHuels · Post by **MariannaHuels** » 22 Apr 2025, 21:49

Currently driving an AWD 04’ Astro van, ready to get rid of that and get a more minimal daily AWD Volvo, something I can take up in the snow in the winter for snowboarding and also drive to and from work everyday, I hear alot of years have transmission issues, my mom has an 07’ s80 and it’s transmission is on its last legs but is somehow still going. I’m wondering what the most reliable XC70 would be? I found an 08’ 3.2 in my area for $3800, granted it has 200k miles and I have no idea how long these cars last with eh maintenance. I do like the P2 platforms a lot and would love to know if there are certain years to avoid and some things to look out for when buying. Looking to keep it under $4000, preferably closer to $3000 as I’m saving up for a clean 85’ 240 wagon with a b230 and 4 speed lol. Building a wagon arsenal!

Also if you are in the PNW area and are selling either of those 2 cars let me know! (XC70 and 85’ Wagon)

Post by **erikv11** » 22 Apr 2025, 22:29

For an XC70 stick to the P2 platform. So the '08 is a no go IMO.

It's very clear the '06 and '07 are the preferred years for P2. I don't have the time or quick recall to list them for you on the spot but, many bugs worked out by '06. The transmissions are not bulletproof but if taken care of will run a long time. My advice is to hold out for an '07.

Fortunately there should be many in good condition where you live, but on the flip side may be hard to fit into the budget.

ortho stice · Post by **ortho stice** » 23 Apr 2025, 05:09

I found an '06 for under $2k but had to travel 7 hours round trip for it and it needed a little work. I found a few '01-'02 cars when I was looking for cheap but did not want to deal with the potential for transmission or ETM problems. 2007 cars in my area (western PA) seem to go for around $6k in clean condition.

Post by **cn90** » 23 Apr 2025, 08:22

Try to find a 2006 or 2007 XC70 with ~ 100K miles...

Vova585 · Post by **Vova585** » 23 Apr 2025, 09:42

I would not recommend to anyone to own xc70 as a daily car unless they are fully aware of what they are getting into. If we are talking station wagon from volvo as a daily driver on a budger-i would suggest regular P2 regular V70 preferably non turbo and non awd. Better invest Into set of great winter tires than deal with awd parts cost and availability. Any old car I would try to select with better maintenance records and less options(see turbo, awd, sensors) which would be draining your wallet.

Post by **cn90** » 23 Apr 2025, 09:46

I agree that the AWD system on P2 is flawed (angle gear collar stripping). Just get a FWD + winter tires.

If you want AWD feature, then BMW E83 X3 or E53 X5 have much better AWD feature (I have both of these vehicles)...

Vova585 · Post by **Vova585** » 23 Apr 2025, 20:17

cn90 wrote: ↑23 Apr 2025, 09:46 I agree that the AWD system on P2 is flawed (angle gear collar stripping). Just get a FWD + winter tires.

If you want AWD feature, then BMW E83 X3 or E53 X5 have much better AWD feature (I have both of these vehicles)...

Never was a fan of BMW, and never thought they were cheap to maintain. However, since I never had one I will trust cn90 on that. From my experience 1998 v70xc fwd(removed rear driveshaft) on hakapelitta studded was just destroying all other awd, 4wd trucks and subarus on the slippery hills. Of course if any of subies would have same tires they would win any day.

Post by **abscate** » 24 Apr 2025, 04:28

2005 2006 2007 xc70 or v70 with studded snows ( all four wheels ) will be fine in PA.

Easily gotten on a 4K budget, maybe look over closer to Philly or upstate NY

Ithaca NY is loaded with Volvos and isn’t too bad a drive.

beewstew · Post by **beewstew** » 24 Apr 2025, 06:26

The gas mileage is going to be about the same as your astro van. You'll be able to carry less cargo. Almost all of the XC 70s have a turbo. which adds extra plumbing to fail. The Astro. can have. a stronger trailer hitch and pull more weight. . Are you going to do your own work? If so, be warned that the engine compartment is very, very tight.

Post by **xHeart** » 24 Apr 2025, 08:57

I am running a 2001 V70XC with great success. Original subframe, AWD, transmission, engine, body, and exhaust. A lot has been upgraded since crossing 120,000 miles. It is a 2001 soul with 2007 spirit.

A P2 XC will take an aggressive maintenance regardless of mileage.

This may help a little search.php?keywords=2001+V70XC&terms=al ... mit=Search