I’m looking at purchasing a 2001 Volvo XC70 and the only issue which the owner said she has is a warning light Stop Engine, Coolant Level Low. However the level is actually ok.
she had a mechanic look at it and they replaced the water pump but didn’t resolve it. The mechanic just said it’s just old car electrics playing up.

Can anyone shed any light on possible known issues? Is it known for simple sensors to go? I just don’t want to buy it and end up with head damage to overheating? But the car doesn’t overheat to what she is saying.

 

yes, any sensor can fail after 20 years.

if your coolant level is normal and stays that way during a driving cycle then its probably the coolant level sensor. Hopefully they didn't replace the water pump just because of the level sensor alert!!

Google "volvo 30741155" and you'll see one on IPD for about $15, OEM for $25

As to your concern about overheating, again, not related to the coolant level sensor. If there's fluid in the overflow reservoir, then the sensor's not doing its job. If you have a concern about overheating, what's the temperature gauge say? The smart thing to do here is to pay $100 to have a shop do a professional inspection and ask the seller to install a new coolant level sensor.