2004 V70R - Things to look for when purchasing?

maiochris · Post by **maiochris** » 04 Oct 2023, 16:28

Hello! This is my first post on the forum, and I'm sorry if this comes up a lot, but I currently have a 2007 S60R w/ the Spaceball that I really love. It's not without it's flaws though. I found a 2004 V70R on Craigslist that I'm interested in, and considering trading, because it's an automatic. I love my S60, but it's my first manual and stick isn't my favorite. I was wondering; how much different is the V70R than the S60R? Also, what potential problems should I look for when considering this?

Things I know of: AWD needs lubricating, OE suspension issues (V70R has the OE suspension), bad blower motor, torque limiter in 1st and 2nd.

I've had my car for 2 years and about 23k miles and it hasn't let me down, so I'm hesitant, but curious. Thanks in advance!

Post by **jonesg** » 05 Oct 2023, 09:20

unless you absolutely have to own a wagon i wouldn't do it.
shift stick is easier to rehab than an auto trans.

Post by **scot850** » 05 Oct 2023, 19:54

An 'R' with issues, the first thing to consider is your bank balance!!

Original suspension is the adjustable Munro made (4-C system) shocks with 3 settings. The cost is crazy for those, and then while in there you will need to add spring seats and carefully check the coil springs for cracks. Check the prices of the 4C shocks/struts. FCP sells the Munro branded (not OE Volvo branded) struts. Now how close those are to the OE version I don't know. Prices have come down, but you are still talking $4-500/corner for OE shocks.

Not sure what you mean by AWD system needs lubing? If there is a problem you need to check the whole system including the collar for the angle gear (R's get driven hard), has the Haldex system got any issues? If it has not been serviced, chances are the Haldex oil pump may need replaced as well as the filter (in fairness any P2 AWD will likely be the same). Not sure of the US prices, but we just paid Volvo about $1400 CDN for this service last year on our 06 XC.

Blower motor is a pain to swap but not terrible.

The last item is not a good issue to deal with.

Looking at all these issues I would question if/how the car has been maintained. Has it had regular servicing and is it up to date. I would suggest having the car inspected by a dealer if you have one that is any good. You have an S60R so you know some of the likely issues to look out for.

I wish you luck!

Neil.

Post by **vtl** » 06 Oct 2023, 07:48

I double the bank balance checking suggestion.

Personally if I have to buy any 20 y.o. Volvo I'd be assuming it is all worn out to holes and needs a total overhaul of everything. It would be nice if the exterior is not damaged, paint does not peel and the interior was taken care after: no cracks in leather, no stains, not stinky. Because I was looking after 3 Volvos of that age.

Post by **scot850** » 06 Oct 2023, 19:52

There is a guy called Elliot Alvis on Youtube. He rescued an R. Worth watching his ongoing frustrations with that car.

Neil.

Post by **matthew1** » 06 Oct 2023, 20:12

I'd examine the transmission as if it was the world's only Moon rock. I'd feel how it shifts in every (every) kind of situation. I'd listen to it as it shifts. I'd look at and smell the trans fluid dipstick (for burnt smell). I'd ask the seller questions about the transmission maintenance. I'd ask for receipts. I'd look for fluid under the car where it's parked. I'd look under the car if at all possible.

Plus all the other things mentioned above ^ my post.