Done w/ 850 Looking To Move Up to S60...things to look for?

ANIGAV Inc. · Post by **ANIGAV Inc.** » 20 Oct 2009, 07:31

Hello all,
After some deep thought and much pondering I've come to the conclusion that its time to let the 850 go. I'm shopping around for something around the 4-6k range and the s60 fits right into my price range.

The main reason for the change is that I'm trying to keep from spending money "suping" up a dd. I dropped a k in cosmetic upgrades for the 850 and its nowhere near where i want it to be. Basically, I'm at the point now that if i want to go fast i'll just buy a sports car.

I'm looking around for info but i figured the direct approach works too. So with that said... I'm looking to purchase an '01-'04 S60. Can anyone tell me anything particular to be on the look out for?

I hear the 01-02 trannies are junk and that the 01's have the ETM and its prone to problems.
How true is this and what else should i be looking for?
According to wiki there is a 2.4T and a 2.3T5..besides the horsepower is there any real difference?

Post by **OEMVolvoParts** » 20 Oct 2009, 15:52

Yeah the early ones had transmission and ETM issues. The newer ones (02-), are good buys, they dont have any real issues. It will be better to spend a little extra money for one that is in good condition. If you can find one that had an extended warranty on it, that way you know it was taken care of.

rbodor3 · Post by **rbodor3** » 22 Oct 2009, 19:14

T5 is a high pressure turbo, came with the 16T turbocharger and lower compression. This means that stock block can hold more power, it puts out more power, and comes with a bigger turbo. it also tends to be a bit harder to find and more expensive to buy, but of course that equates to better resale in these vehicles.

2.4t/2.5t are pretty much the same. Low pressure turbos, came with 13T turbocharger, high compression engines. This means more torque, but stock block cannot hold as much power, puts out less power than the HPT, and smaller turbo. Cheap and easy to find.

Don't even think about buying a naturally aspirated S60, they're useless.

Mechanical issues of the MY 01-04 volvos include the PCV system, ETM, transmission (b4 cover, valve body, software), lower front control arm bushings, upper engine mount, lower transmission mount, upper spring seats, and tire rub.

MY2002 S60 received only some of the fixes with the problems in the 2001, negligible IMHO. They also received upgraded rods and crankshaft.

Most solid S60s on the road now are the MY2005-2006 ones. Significantly more expensive, and harder to find.

Post by **igel513** » 21 May 2010, 15:11

What about d '03s. R there any issues w/ these mods

otis44 · Post by **otis44** » 21 May 2010, 16:11

No more issues with the 03 than any other model excluding the 01-02. With the money you are talking about spending the issue is going to become finding a car that doesn't have a ton of miles. If you are buying one of these regardless if its an 03 model or an 09 model that has high miles (or any mileage) for that matter, be sure it has been serviced and maintained properly. These cars are fine automobiles when treated properly and not so fine when they are not.