V70 T5 wagon purchase - expected maint. issues if >70k mi

[Hobart]

I've been eying a few of these wagons of 00 - 02 vintage, most with 70k or more miles. Question is, what work typically is needed on these cars at this mileage if it has not already been done, i.e., timing belts, front end work, shocks, etc. I'm just trying to get a feel for maintenance costs after purchase.

Also any tips before purshase are greatly appreciated. I'll probably need to travel >100 miles or more to find a car, so I'd like to be prepared, especially if there are particular pitfalls with a V70 T5.

Many thanks!

[pfeener]

The 00 has the "drive by wire" throttle body which fails and is $1,000 to fix. The good news is Volvo is now covering this problem to 200,000 miles. If it's been changed out you'll be fine. The new ones don't break. I would stay away from the 01 V70s. It was the first year of a new design and had a lot of issues. The 02 is the best way to go IPO.

At 70K the things to look for or that will need doing; Serpentine belt (timing belt is 105K recommended) transmission flush if it hasn't already been done, gas filter and brakes (if they haven't already been done). Not much else in the routine catagory. I would look at the sway bar end links, ball joints, tie rod ends, struts and shocks and front strut spring seats, but most likely they'll be OK. Also check for the obvious like oil and anti-freeze leaks. Lastly, Volvo batteries tend to give up the ghost at about 4 years. Exhaust is all stainless and will last the lifetime of the car. Routine tuneup is every 30K (check to see when last done.