I am researching used cars for my family and Volvo keeps coming up. I would love one, but just about every review that I read on them is absolutely terrible. So I thought I would come to a Volvo forum. I know that with proper maintenance these cars are supposed to be incredibly safe and reliable, going to 300-400,000 miles. However, 9/10 people who have posted reviews hate their cars, can't wait to get rid of it, say it's a money pit, ect. Most of the vehicles that they are referring to haven't hit 100k. If I were to purchase a Volvo with 140,000 miles on it, wouldn't you think that all of the stuff that was going to break on it already has? Please forgive my ignorance, but I'm just trying to make a well-informed decision and find a vehicle that is the right fit for my family. I appreciate input. Thank you.

 

Big redisign in 2001 took till 2003 or so to work all the bugs out.

Every car manufacture has unreliable models in the first years of a new model/redesign.

However used cars of any make are usually pretty good, as long as you have some service records. As a car ages, the bugs get worked out over time as well. This comes VIA software updates, defective parts replacement, and TSB.

 

I have a 2000 S70 GLT SE with 171,000 miles and it has been in the shop for repair less than my 2010 GMC Acadia. I love my S70, she gets me to and from with no hesitation or problems. Of course one thing you have to understand with a 12 year old car in my case is that things are going to go bad and need to be replaced every now and again, especially in the brutal climate of South Florida where I am. I recently heard that you dont judge the wear and tear of a Volvo on its mileage but rather its age, much like a human. If properly maintained and minor things not ignored when they need attention, they will last a very long time..... Volvo For Life. That company has a few meanings... one because they are so safe and two because they will last you a lifetime.