Currently have a '99 VW Jetta [manual] with roughly 168,000. Has served me well in winter climates in PHL and DET. Spend about $800-$1,200 / year on upkeep. No substantial problems with the car.

My wife and I are looking to start a family soon - and she doesn't drive stick. Also, I am a woodworker/builder by trade, so space is important. I have been able to get 9' boards into my Jetta, tools, etc. Many friends have had Volvo wagons over the years, and the space, safety, design, etc. has always attracted me.

While the Jetta is not ready to be put out to pasture just yet, I could transfer it to others who could use it.

My mechanic has a Volvo for sale (via a client) that I have been looking at. 1999 XC70 AWD Wagon [automatic]. 177,000 miles. for $2,300 - $2,500.

I test drove it, and frankly it was idling pretty heavy, and seemed to have a tremendous more anount of engine noise vs. my Jetta. Mechanic said he would take a closer diagnostic look at the car should I be interested.

Besides my mechanics assessment, what warning signs should I be looking for re: this make/model? How much longer can this car run without substantial yearly repair investment?

 

Hi

I used to own a 2001 XC70 and would not wish such a pile of crap on anyone. Having said that, my time on the Volvo forums would indicate that the 1999 isn't quite as awful.

If you do not perform your own repairs, that generation of Volvo gets real expensive, real quick. You should also cruise the craigslist and similar sites for major cities for same year Volvos. Reading through the "great car, just needs 'X' fixed" can tell you how common certain problems are. In Vancouver Canada, I am seeing a lot of head-gasket issues recently for that generation.

Also the angle gear that sends power to the back is problematic, fragile, rarely available used, and expensive.

The FWD non-turbo models seem to be very good.

HTH
Ken