Hey guys,
I am looking to buy a nice c70 convertible I saw on craigslist. I wondered how different they are from the 850 or how similar or if there are any bad things about them. I want a convertible and I like the color but I don't know if I can part with my 850 unless it is just as reliable mechanically. Any input from you guys would be great!
Here is the post:2004 Volvo C70 Convertible

 

2000 Volvo C70 Convertible

 

Well, I'd say if you're going to go with one of them to pick the 04. Newer and a little less mileage for not much more in terms of price. It also has the 2.3L engine instead of the 2.4L which is a big difference. I've driven both 2.3 and 2.4L C70s and the 2.4 is just downright slow.

The 1998 C70 is pretty much the same car as an 850, but after that they changed a little. They went from a throttle cable from the pedal to an electronic throttle body and some other things that slip my mind at the moment.

Some problems I've seen with C70s include slow/malfunctioning passenger window regulator/motors, clunky front suspension due to bad strut mount (ipd has an upgraded version available), leaking heater cores, broken dash mounts which makes noise in the cabin, and of course the timing belt issue.

That's about all I can think of at the moment. I have fixed other problems, but they've been more my fault rather than the cars.

I can say that the turning radius is somehow less for the C70 then the 850s. I personally wish I had an 850 wagon. I just find that the 2 door is not enough space for what I'd like in a vehicle. If you're just getting it for joy rides and fun, then I'm sure you will be happy.

 

What is the timing belt issue? Also thank you very much for the input. Have you heard anything about transmission issues on c70s? I have heard a few cases of that. Also, what do you think of this one:Used 2001 Volvo C70 for Sale in Cleveland OH 44133 Autolika Cars LLC

 

Timing belt complete kit from IPD with water pump would be my first job. The front struts from IPD when required. I had a wheel hub/bearing go out on my 1998 C70 2.3HPT at 50k miles and replaced both hubs and axles. Door window regulators wear out. The gas and trunk levers malfunction, bad mounting. Definitly go with the 2.3HPT over the 2.4 slug. I had my radiator/cooling system power flushed, brake system power flushed and auto tranny fluid flushed. There are several threads on the cloth top folding or raising. My 98 has a distributor, plug wires and a single coil like the old days, I have replaced them as a preventative action. 2000 and up are all electronic. My coupe came with every option. Sun roofs all rattle but my independent Volvo shop had a fix. Seat micro switch to allow folding of seat a common problem I had dealer replace first one lasted 1yr, I replaced 2nd one still working 2 yrs later. Dealer charged $1100.00!
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Hey thanks for the info

 

The timing belts on these cars tend to go out earlier than they originally designed. See this thread for more info:

https://volvoforums.com/forum/volvo-...autions-15169/

As for the other silver one you posted, I would still go with the red one you posted first. Again, this silver one has the 2.4L and it says it has 85k miles, which the timing belt goes out right around 80-100k, so that car is due for a change if it hasn't gotten it already. If you're still interested in it, definitely make sure it has been replaced before you buy it. I've never had any problems with the trannys on these cars. The automatic is pretty good and the manual is a rock if you can find one.

 

Great thanks, I really appreciate all of the input. I did really want the red one but it sold in a day!!! I knew it was a good find but now with your help I know what to look for. Thanks again!

 

Bummer =/ No problem and good luck. Let us know what you end up getting!

 

That thread about timing belts is old and misleading. I've never seen one fail before it was due. Of course, its always safe to replace it early, but there certainly is no "timing belt issue".

 

Yeah I know I liked that red one. I may wait a little and find the exact one I want but I will post back!

 

My girlfriend's failed at 89k miles. The tensioner broke and we bent valves. More than $3000 later I'd like to say that there is a timing belt issue.... I don't think they should fail before 100k miles. Just my 2 cents.

 

What year was the car and how old was the belt? Mileage isn't the only interval to worry about.

 

It was a 2000. It was probably the original belt, but I don't know honestly. It was a long time ago before I knew anything about cars. We got it fixed and the car has 150k miles now.

Also, for mal81394, here's a good reference for other parts that fail that I missed:

http://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/for...hp?f=9&t=47641

 

That's what I thought. If it doesn't reach the mileage by 10 years, it should be replaced. I think the owner's manual says this. An owner pushing the limits doesn't constitute an issue with the part.

The C70 is not a P2 car so that list isn't accurate.

 

The tensioner broke in 2008, not yesterday... the car was 8 years old. You are right about the link though - here's the right one http://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/for...hp?f=1&t=27209

 

Still by no means a common issue.

 

I would have to agree with cactus legs, From what I have been reading the timing belt is a common problem and it is definitely better to replace it then have a dead engine.

 

Sure, it is better to replace than roll the dice. But I've been working on these cars for a long time and have never seen one fail early. If it was common, like window regulators, seat microswitches, ABS control modules and various top issues, I would have seen it at least once.

 

You work at a dealer right ES6T? How much do they charge for a valve job?