11 replies to this topic

[OmegaDC]

So basically I'm an RWD Volvo guy looking for info on the FWD models. I've owned an 85 245, 87 764Ti and a 94 944Ti (RIP). I'm really familiar with redblocks, maintenance things to look out for, etc., but not so much on the FWD/whiteblock cars.

I'm looking in to getting another Volvo to act as a DD to replace the 764Ti. My limit is about $4k and on CL there's more whiteblocks than anything else.

I asked over on TurboBricks about 850s in particular because I was looking at a 96 854, but I would like more overall whiteblock/other model knowledge. Basically things to look for while inspecting the car, service things that I need to pay close attention to, etc. I don't want to end up buying a car on limited knowledge, getting it home and a week later finding something major wrong that I didn't even know to look for...

Mostly V70s and S40s on my local CL in this age range so any information pertaining to these cars would be appreciated. Or general knowledge/trouble years/etc.

Thanks.

[Keaton85]

Tons of topics on this, sorry but that's probably why no one has replyed.

[Dan A]

Plus he posted the same question in two forums. Not much difference in reliability issues for 99-00 models vs previous other than the ETM, which is pinned in this forum.

[theForgottenone]

On the s/v40 , just look for transmission fluid condition. They need to be in good shape. Look for crack coilpack and timing belt service if it is close to 100k. Check engine and transmission mount conditions. You know if it has play during shifting from 2-3 rd gear or moving out of park. Overall they are very reliable if it been maintained. Look for 2001+ model.

[OmegaDC]

Found a nice looking black 99 S70 GLT on Craigslist that I'm going to go look at today. Guy says it runs well except for one issue where it's a little sluggish off the line but smooths out after. Says it posted up a CEL so I'm going to bring my OBD-II Code Reader with me and see if he'll let me pull the code. Otherwise are there any specifics about this car I need to keep in mind? Known trouble areas, important maintenance items (i know about the PCV and timing belts already), etc. I feel kind of strange saying this but if all goes well, I could very well be buying a FWD Volvo...

[Keaton85]

Etm

[OmegaDC]

went to go look at the S70, got four DTCs:

p0605
p0013
p1618
p1633

i looked up P0605 as ECM/PCM issues, and P0013 as cam sensor issues, but I can't find any issue pertaining to the Volvo specific P1618 or P1633 codes.

[Dan A]

P1618 is a generic code indicating some fault reported from the TCM. Might be related to the P0605. If P0605 is truly a problem with the TCM, that could be some $$$$ since they are VIN coded to the car in 99. You can't just pop another one in from the junk yard. P1633 I believe relates to the ABS, which is a common maintenance item. MattyMoo rebuilds them for cheap.

[OmegaDC]

Yeah I figure I'm going to avoid it because of the ECU issue. Wouldn't want to drop 2500 on a car and then have it end up being pandora's box. I've bought three dead reliable cars for under a grand before, so I'm not gonna spend twice that+ and worry about having to fix anything major.

[swedishiron]

My personal opinion is to skip the 1999-2000 S70/V70/C70 (and 2001 C70) and the P2 V70/S60 2001-2002 and P2 S80 1999-2001 (IPD recommends avoiding these);
If you are open to 1998 or older the S90/960 (down to 1996 model year) would be on my list - my understanding is 6 cylinder M3 exhaust headers can gain signficant HP on these and there actually some chips available
for 1996-1998 S90s. With gas being what is is now and maybe longer an early S40/V40 maybe a viable option.

[Keaton85]

Why skip them?

I much rather have my 01 over my 98 any day.

[James A Sousa]

Have a good dealer check out any white block you really want to buy.

Mine will do a certified Volvo inspection for 1 hour's labor - two page report. Add an hour if you want a compression check. They can tell you if an ant once farted in the trunk

I bought 3 850s that way and have put 110k, 110k, and 60k on them with only 1 big repair in 10 years. (blown head gasket at 98k - we have driven that car 60k since then.)