17 replies to this topic

[Leerichb]

I'm new to the forum, and to the Volvo. I'm considering purchasing a 2001 Volvo S60 (FWD) with only 53,000 miles on it. It was in an accident where it hit a car from its front left side. This concerns me, as does what I've read about this model. Has anyone else heard about transmission issues or frequent bulb burnout?
Thanks so much!

[JRL]

Yes we all have, stay away from 2001s (plus it's been in a wreck)

[Keaton85]

Unless you get it for dirt cheap and swap the valve body from an 03+. That is if the tranny is still good with clean fluid.

Other then that stay away from 01-02 automatics, any T6 or any S80 (in general for the T6 and S80)

[Leerichb]

Thanks for the help. Can you recommend a model/year? I'm looking to spend about 12,000, so this probably limits me to either an older model with high miles or a really old model with lower miles. I really appreciate the advice. I did read that even-number years are better; do you think that's accurate? It sounded far-fetched.

[Keaton85]

Doesn't have anything to do with even or odd numbers.

03+ V70, XC, S60, XC90 (except T6, 05 V8, and S80)

Unless you find a 01-02 with a 5spd manual tranny and those are fine. 12K you can get a really nice newer Volvo! that's a large budget...

[Leerichb]

You don't think older than 2003, even if low miles is a good idea? I actually like those bodies better but know nothing about their mechanics (which is why I'm here ). Any suggestions as far as maximum number of miles?

[Keaton85]

You said 12k

Didn't think you were interested in the old series. Any 98-00 V70/S70/C70....

[Leerichb]

Well, my dilemma is I have the budget, but prefer the older models, so I am looking to see if any older, low mile models become available. I actually just saw a '91, but was concerned this was too old, hence my question. I appreciate all input.

[andyb5]

If you're interested in a 94-97 850 or 98-00 S/V70, you will find most cars that are in nice shape go for $5-7k. With your budget, that would allow for a nice margin for any repairs it needs, or any mods you want to do. As long as you can verify the maintenance history, higher mileage isn't much of an issue with these cars. Also, where are you located?

Here's 3 different generations of Volvos, all in great shape and being sold by very reputable members. You couldn't go wrong with any of these.

95 850 T5-R for $8k: http://forums.swedes...Yellow-Charcoal

99 V70R AWD for $5k: http://forums.swedes...Boston-MA-4-999

01 S60 T5 M for $7k. http://forums.swedes...Charcoal-7k-obo

[Dan A]

Or if you want someone to look for you, JRL is a dealer. PM him and I'm sure he can help you spend your money buying from him. He seems to still find older models with low miles and knows the trouble spots to fix.

[Leerichb]

Thanks. I'm right outside of Philly. I prefer a dealer as I have a car to trade in, but can afford one of those older models without doing the trade in.

[(n)A-GAME]

If you're outside Philly then you definitely need to PM member "JRL." If anyone can find you what you're looking for, it's him. Plus he's local to you in Devon.

[JMK33]

I have a mint 98 V70R with 109K, modded tastefully. Will need power steering pump and timing belt soon. Im considering selling around summer time if you dont find anything by then...

Just throwing it out there

[T5power]

Thanks. I'm right outside of Philly. I prefer a dealer as I have a car to trade in, but can afford one of those older models without doing the trade in.

where are you located? i'm moving back to doylestown (hometown) this may. and +1 to JRL, cars that are pretty much brand new for 12+ years of age

[JRL]

I'm sure I can find you the Volvo of your dreams

[jdlc]

I have a mint 98 V70R with 109K, modded tastefully. Will need power steering pump and timing belt soon. Im considering selling around summer time if you dont find anything by then...

Just throwing it out there

Shoot me a pm of what you have in mind and what mod will remain in the car - not in any hurry either. Thanks

[Leerichb]

I'm five minutes from Chestnut Hill. Grew up in Bucks County, now in Montco. I prefer the S rather than the V (don't need a wagon) but thanks. BTW, love the pic of "Gilly". Yea, I'm hoping JRL can find something for me. As Mick said, "Time is on my side" but if someone had an older Volvo that was everything I'm looking for (lower miles, sunroof), I'd probably just buy it out right. Otherwise, if it's a 2004 or 5, I'll have to do the trade-in. Please feel free to e-mail me if you find something: leerichb@gmail.com.

[James A Sousa]

Think about finding a good dealer

Mine will check a prospective purchase for 1 hour's labor and give me a written, two-page certified car report. Add an hour for a compression check.

From what I can see, they can tell you if an ant ever farted in the trunk!