How to evaluate a used Volvo

[fazool]

Our 2001 V70XC is now 10+ years with 130kmi.........It is running great...Any red flags ahead?

Even though I wrote that warning, I have a 2001 S60 with 142K miles and 10+ yrs age. It, too runs great and I am amazed at how perfectly everything works still. So, like you, I am an owner of one of these worrisome 2001/2002 transmissions.

I have no experience with such failures but have read enough from other MVS experts and visitors to make a convincing argument that there is no predicting their life and these trannies will someday spontaneously fail.

[regent]

Another one here (N/A '02 S60 with a 5-speed AISIN) - still flawless at 107 K.
Thanks.

[beamason61]

Great Post thanks,
I have a 1998 V70 389,000 runs like new

[rspi]

I've often thought about making a check list myself. I'll look over the one I just downloaded. I usually use "the lack of care/maintenance/needed repairs" as a sorce of negotiating. Usually the owner knows the cost of such work and understands.

Front suspension is also a point of concern in these cars. Noisy and loose operation during the test drive is a dead give-a-way of needed repairs. All Volvo's drive with a real quiet solid feel so noisy suspension, pulling during braking, and a loose steering wheel feel will let you know that repairs due (or overdue).

Operate all accessories including the power seats, cruise control and air conditioning. The cruise will work or not, usually easy to detect a problem. The AC should come on and not cycle ever 5 seconds. Go and look at the AC compressor to make sure the front of it is turning, if not, you can have a compressor problem or freon leak in the system, both can be costly. Also ask about keys and remotes. If the car is post '98 it can cost hundreds of dollars to get either (purchased and programmed).

Just my 2 cents.