Convertible top/unknown mods, 2004 c70 2.4T

[daunted12]

Hi everyone,

A few days ago I picked up my first Volvo - a 2004 C70 2.4T LPT (at least that’s what I’ve been able to figure out). It’s got about 80k miles on it, though the catch is it’s had 14 owners over the years. Despite the history, the car is in surprisingly good condition and drives great.

I’ve never owned a Volvo before, never had a turbo car, and never really owned something that could be considered “fun,” so this is all new territory for me. I bought it as a learning project and something I can slowly bring back to its best shape.

A few quirks/issues I’ve noticed so far:

Convertible top isn’t working at all (no noise from the motor and the button on the dash isn't lit up).

Only the right side speakers are working — left side is dead.

There’s a battery drain issue; car has a kill switch installed to keep it from dying I was told this needed to be used if not going to be driven for a few days.

Interior trim pieces are loose or missing clips. (not a big deal but eventually ill work on restoring this.)

I think the turbo system has been messed with. My friend looked at it and doesn't think it looks very OEM but I'm not sure.

Intercooler made me nervous one day after a long drive, but it’s been fine since.

What I know has been done:

Control arms and some seals replaced in recent years.

Newer battery installed.

Timing belt/water pump status is still unknown, so that’s high on my list to confirm/replace.

What I’d like to do with the car:

Get the convertible top working again (big priority).

Go through the suspension and make sure everything is solid.

Sort out the electrical gremlins (battery drain, speakers, trim).

Learn more about the turbo setup and make sure it’s healthy.

Eventually do some fun upgrades. I’ve seen people mod these for looks, sound, and performance, and I’d like to dip my toes into that world once I know the basics are solid.

I bought this car mainly to learn - both about Volvos and about working on cars in general — so I’m excited to start diagnosing, wrenching, and sharing progress. Any tips, common problem areas to look out for, or good beginner resources would be hugely appreciated.

[abscate]

Congrats! The c70 is built on the p80 chassis up to 2004, so you are in the right forum.

Take some pictures of the turbo and engine bay and lots of eye candy pictures for us

[cuhfs]

Check fuses since dash light is off. But be aware Convertible top operations will probably need dealer service. They have special software (different from vida) that they use for the top calibration. Slight issues with top trigger it to not work. Convertibles are great while they work and challenging when they don't. I've had 3 . Even did a top replacement. They use lots of micro switches. Enjoy the car and be zen with the top.