Hi Gang,

I'm looking at getting a first car for my 16 year old son. Dealer is asking about 12,500 for 2011 c70 t5 with 85,000 miles. According to Car Fax it hasn't had it's timing belt replaced yet, so I know I'll have to address that. I guess my questions are:

1. Are Volvos reasonable dependable up to 150,000 miles?

2. Are there specific things I should be looking out for before purchasing?

3. Edmunds TMV seems to indicate that retail should be closer to $11,000. Does this sound right?

4. What should I expect to have the timing belt replaced, and any other work recommended when I go in for this work.

Thanks in advance for taking the time to help out a newbie to the fold.

 

32 views and no help??? Hey guys, anything would be appreciated. Share your wisdom with me.

 

They can easily reach 150k and beyond if maintained. The timing belt isn't due until 120,000 miles or 10 years, so you have time. Common failures are leaking struts, torn control arm bushings, cracking coolant reservoir, passenger motor mount, inner CV boots.

 

Thanks so much for your input. I really appreciate you taking the time.

 

Depends on how much extra money you feel like spending on maintenance. I just bought a 2004 C70 with 104k on it and it's been one thing after another. Also have to watch out for the top. They can be very pricy if they fail. I saw that someone previously mentioned timing belt needed to be done at 120 or 10 years. While it's not wrong that a car could reasonably reach that milestone before needing that done, for me, the risk is not worth it. I like to change mine every 80k or 6 years. Better to have a belt to do, than a ruined top end of your engine. These are interference engines so if a belt snaps your likely to damage internals. It helps that I work on cars so any repairs and maintenance I can usually do myself. If your handy youll save a lot of money. They're great cars. But they'll cost you if you don't keep up on them. It's very helpful to find one that has been dealer serviced and/or owned by elderly folks (which isn't too hard to come by on w convertible vehicle). I've had many volvos and this one has been my favorite but it has also been quite a problem child.

 

I get this. I think I'm going to go with something more dependable as I don't want to saddle my son with something that is going to need constant and costly attention.

 

The 2004 C70 is totally different.

There is no issue waitinf until 120k miles for the timing belt. I wouldn't say the 2012 will need constant attention, but as with any used car, a lot depends on the previous owner amd how well they maintained the car.

 

I have a 2010 T5. Its only done 83k miles and been serviced once a year. Not had to replace anything other than tyres in 3 ½ years. Still drives as smooth as you'd expect. I love it.