Hello everyone! Brand new member here as of 5 minutes ago!

I am considering my first Volvo purchase. A 2008 V70 with 73,000 miles. The car was old lady owned and looks very clean in photos. I am traveling to see the vehicle on Thursday. It has a clean carfax, and no history of accidents. The seller did send me a photo of damage to the rear left door window frame. I do live in a rust belt state that salts, so I am concerned about the damage.

Is this pillar aluminum or steel? Can it be be reasonably repaired without replacing the whole door? It doesn't have to be perfect aesthetically, I just don't want it to leak or rust. I would probably try to bend it back myself as a start, but don't know if that part is painted or covered in some sort or vinyl. I found it interesting it doesn't show any missing paint.

Also what are other common issues I should be looking for on this era car?

Thanks everyone! I hope to become part of this community, I am getting this car because my VW wagon finally died.

Victor

 

kind of tough to see exactly what is bend from the photo with the reflection etc, but its likely the part is steel and its something that you could probably pull out and paint. assuming its painted and is close enough for the door seal to work, there's no issue other than cosmetics. One option is to simply replace the rear door. You can probably find a used door in your car's color on car-part.com for about $250 so just price that into your offer.

 

Thanks for the reply. It's nice to know a door is available if it ever came to that, I even found d a few in the right color.

I haven't seen paperwork yet to determine if it has had a timing belt replaced. If it hasn't, what should I expect to spend to get that done?

Vicror

 

https://www.tascaparts.com/auto-part...rear-door-scat

#5 Applique. If it is only the applique that is damaged it can be replaced. If the door frame under the applique is bent and interfering with the window track/seal then .......

3.2 LT engine is chain driven, no belt.

 

Wow, that is the great info I was hoping for, from someone who knows the car well. Thank you. When I go look at the car, I will make sure the window can go up and down unimpeded, and if the seal to the glass is good, I will bend back the metal, or order a new trim panel.

I am glad to hear about the timing chain, so at 73k miles, I shouldn't have to worry about a tensioner or anything right?

Victor

 

right, only the I5s require timing belts (most are 10 year/120 miles, some S40s are longer). If you have a 6, there's nothing to service. +1 on SS's advise to check dealer parts stores to see what's available. BTW, I've been using Tasca for years (they are located in Rhode Island) and they have the best prices I've found yet.