Hi, I currently love my 96 960 wagon. But I am having a few problems comming up with it that I simply don't have the time to mess with. They arn't major, I just need something more reliable than it's present state. So I am looking at a 1997 960 sedan. The only problem is, I don't know what to look for when I go to buy it. Other than the obvious "Fluid levels good, tires not in shreds ect". Please give me a general idea of what to look for to make sure that it isn't a waste of money? I am a young driver and I can't afford to get screwed by someone, especially since it's a state or two over...

 

Any issues you have with the wagon will also be possible with the sedan- it's basically the same car (minus the tailgate, of course).

Biggest thing is the timing belt. Make sure you know when it was changed last, or be prepared to change it when you get it. If it breaks, you'll have the world's biggest paperweight...

 

The 960 is a car that you have to keep up with constantly, when something does break it's typically a PITA to fix. If you are wanting something that will require a bit less maintenance, is easier to work on, and will run for a very long time (if taken care of) I would look into a 240. If you're absolutely set on the 960, making sure the timing belt has been done is key. (for a 97, it has to be done ever 70k) Drive it around a bit with the windows down, and with the A/C on and listen for any weird noises. Make sure the oil, coolant, and transmission fluids have been regularly changed, and get underneath it and make sure there are no fluids, or evidence of fluids leaking. As long as the previous owner took proper care of it, it should last a while and treat you well.