Hi there,
I am a long time volvo owner/driver. I do not know much about cars, but, we started driving volvos since the firth of our first child. Our first car was a 940.

I currently drive a 1995 850 wagon. it has 330K on it. I bought it with 110 k on it. I am in the market for a newer volvo station wagon.

my budget is limited. But, I want to buy a car that I can drive for a few years without having to spend a lot on major repair. I know that the early 2000s XC70 and possibly V70 (correct me if I am wrong) has a lot of transmission issues. Now, I have an opportunity to buy either a 2004 XC70 or a 2003 V70 (2.4 L engine) station wagon. both cars have about 120k on them.

Now, are there any chronic issues with these year models, especially transmission? or, should I save up more and move up to 2005 or even 2006 models. Again, my budget is limited. Please educate me. if possible I would like to buy a reliable car that I can drive for a long while.

I appreciate your help.

Thanks,

SI

 

I'm wondering the exact same thing!

 

The transmission on the 2004 is a very reliable unit. You must change the fluid regularly, every 36,000 mi or three years. Use Mobil1 JWS 3309. It's the same stuff that Volvo sells but about 1/3rd the price, about $8 per quart. Mobil is the only producer in North America that makes this fluid. It's basically Dextron type fluid with extra additives to reduce oxidation and foaming. With regular fluid changes, the transmission is nearly indestructible, a rock solid unit. The biggest issue for 2004-2009 is the front suspension lower control arms and strut mounts. These parts are made of rubber for a soft ride but they wear out and need replacing about every 75,000 mi.