Hi,

I'm jeff and I just signed up for this forum.

My daughter has found an 89 740 wagon w/ 212k mi on it. It seems to run well has some cosmetic issues, but it's only $1k. It probably would be a great first car for her.

My main question, are there any problem areas to look for. The AC belt is off and this would be an old R12 system. She's ok w/ not having AC. I only drove it for about 10 min, but am concidering taking it to the local Volvo indepenent shop. The car is in No Calif and doesn't appear to have any rust.

FWIW, my Gf has a 99 XC70 also. So I guess I should bone up on Volvo stuff.

Thanks,

Jeff

 

Welcome to the forum.

Yes, do take the possible purchase to a Volvo technician before actually paying for the car. This pre-purchase inspection is well worth the money.

I would expect certain things to be done soon, such as routine consumables (tune-up items, fluids & filters, etc...). As to the A/C, I would assume there should be a conversion kit in the market but since your daughter can get by without it, then it wouldn't be worth the money.

Good luck on the possible purchase.


JPN

 

Welcome. Let us know what happens.

 

7 series Volvos don't tend to rust too badly. They're also very common so repairs aren;t too expensive. You'll probably find teh AC compressor seized, it's the only real reason to remove the belt. A new compressor is not a lot of money, nor is getting the system serviced at teh same time.
They're a pretty reliable car for the money, if given even basic maintenence. I'd pay a little less for teh car though, from my understanding around $800 would be realistic in the US for a 7 series that needs some work and has reasonable mileage.

Regards, Andrew.