Hello everyone, I've just bought my first Volvo today, and I wasn't even looking for one! It's a 2004 c70 t5m with 55000 miles.
I stumbled across this on Craigslist and was fortunate to be the first person to view it.
I'd like to know what preventative maintenance I should do and are there any good upgrades you would advise me to buy?
Many thanks.

 

1) check the maintenance history. Most imporant is the timing belt which should be done at ten years or 100,000 miles. 2) check all fluids. Consider using synthetic oil if not already, a coolant drain fill (flush with deionized water), power steering and brake fluid drain fills. 3) check boots on CV joints and other rubber suspension components and struts/shocks (for leaks). 4) battery cables/posts, battery age 5) spark plugs normally are changed at 75K but given the age, you may want to refresh 6) listen for any pulley noises and inspect the accessory belts for any cracks or wear. 7) tire age. Given the low miles, your tires may be over 5 years old which is about when they firm up and lose compliance (meaning you lose traction even though the tires have tread). For upgrades, you can go with new wheels/tires, fresh struts/shocks and consider a HD sway bar. For the engine you can consider an ECU reprogram and perhaps a big downpipe as a way to get 40 extra HP for about $1000.

 

Thanks for your input. What tires do you recommend for the Florida heat? Is the timing belt a DIY job and does it need special tools?