Hi -

I am going to look at a possible Volvo purchase tonight (my first) and would appreciate some feedback about what I should be paying attention to on this particular car. Here are the details (based on the ad, and my conversation with the guy)

1994 850 Wagon 5cyl $650
240,000 miles
Daily driver for past two years (which is how long this guy has owned it)
Body in good condition, very minimal rust
Drivers side power seat won't adjust anymore
"Might" need brakes
Needs tail light lenses
Tires good
Runs strong

I'm going to look at general stuff like tire condition, rust on the exhaust, etc but am wondering if there are any Volvo-specific things I should look for, or questions to ask. I see a lot of stuff on these forums about timing belts? Any thoughts on what brakes may cost (worse case scenario)?

Thanks in advance for your help!!

-Adam

 

Well Adam, $650 for a car that runs is a deal to me. If your state has inspections you might want to get it inspected before you close the deal.

Does the car have any check engine lights?
Is the car smoking?
Is it a TURBO?
When was the last timing belt change? This could cost $300 to $600.
Does the A/C work?

You may also want to check the sticky threads. One of them has good purchase information. Again, $650 for a running car is a deal if you ask me.

 

Oh, brakes... You can go get pads from O'Raileys for something like $45. I would probably go that route unless you are planning some long time ownership and/or restoration of the car.

 

Thanks for the feedback. I live in NY and will need an inspection. Hopefully I can get the inspection without having to have it registered.

I don't know the answers to your other questions, but appreciate the examples of other things I can look for.

I basically just need a reliable car to get me 15 miles to the office monday and then back home on friday. i use a company car during the week. I don't really want to spend more than $1500 (including work that might need to be done) and I have been looking mainly at Volvos because of their reliability. However, I get a little nervous since my perception is that they are very costly to fix.

Thanks again.

 

sounds like a good deal to me....

 

Rule of thumb is you need to spend about $3,000 to a get a reliable car. If you get a car for $650 that runs, you can not complain. I got $800 for mine with a blown engine three years ago. If it quits on you, you could part it out and double your money easlily.

 

Yup thats a deal, I just paid $1700 for mine , but it only has 93k on it and is in real nice condition with a new clutch....if you get a year out of it, youve doubled your investment as far as I am concerned ,,and if you read around,,all cars are expensive to repair,,most mechanics are getting $85/hour and parts are high for pretty much any brand of vehicle, ...thats why there are so many parts stores...Rog