'92 740 Turbo

Guest Mom · Post by **Guest Mom** » 01 May 2003, 18:34

I would like your recommendation. I'm considering buying a '92 740 Turbo wagon, fully loaded, in great condition. The problem is that when we checked the oil, it barely had any in it. We test drove it, it ran fine, no knocks or rattles, didn't smoke. Should I buy?

Guest · Post by **Guest** » 01 May 2003, 22:26

I have one and love it. You should:

1. Ask for maintenance records-review them for regular stuff like oil change, etc.
2. Take the car to a shop and have a mechanic you trust go over it. It's well worth the $75-100 to have peace of mind, and you also get a little "to do" list, which is great for bargaining with the current owner AND for prioritizing the more pressing maintenance or repairs that should be done soon if you buy.
3. Look closely at the condition of the car-does the car show signs of regular maintenance? (i.e. is it filthy in the engine compartment, etc). Do all the gauges and options work? (Don't be surprised if the heated seats and such aren't working).

How many miles? Owners? What's the price? As an example, it's not at all uncommon for a 92 740T wagon to bring upwards of $4500 with up to 150,000 miles, depending on condition and what's been replaced recently. (I paid less than half that for mine-same year and model-and it's only got 105,000 on it

- shop around if you don't get the price you think is fair).

Good luck

Guest · Post by **Guest** » 01 May 2003, 22:31

By the way (forgot on the last one), the low oil could be anything, including an easily-repaired leak or a tendency for the car to burn some oil between changes (not necessarily bad, but requires more frequent checking and maintenance). The fact that it's not smoking is a pretty good sign for the motor and turbo. Does it leak? If so, where from?

And last-make SURE that the mechanic you take it to knows Volvos-they're quite particular about who looks into their guts, and won't tell all their secrets to a GM wrench.