Hi. Just bought a 1997 Volvo 850 Sedan and am dealing with teething problems. The car sat for some months, and then I bought it. On the drive home, I got the following problems with my purchase.

1. A small pool of oil on the top of the engine on the left side of the valve cover (figure the valve cover gasket needs to be replaced.)
2. The overflow coolant tank emptied and then after refilling emptied again in 5 minutes. (Hose or tank probably)
3. The ABS light stays on. (I figure a wheel sensor. This problem was known at time of purchase)
4. Got a noise on the belt end of the engine (figure belt and maybe alternator or idler (if present))

Otherwise it runs great and feels splendid.

So I am taking it to my local mechanic. (He's good and has saved me much pain in the past.) Aside from what I mentioned above, is there anything else I should have him look for?

Dutch

 

You need to make sure your mechanic knows Volvo's. I had a friend who is a great mechanic tell me mine was shot and I should get rid of it because it was burning oil. I have put 60K miles on it since then because I took it back to the Vovlo mechanic and he replaced the Turbo Return hose for about $130. I only take mine to certified Volvo mechanics for anything that I can't figure out how to do myself.

 

I agree take it to someone that knows Volvo's or you will be sorry later on!!!