Greetings,
Looking at a '01 S40, 104K, Turbo 1.9, $4850. I have never owned a Volvo. what questions should I ask the owner? I have read the forum, and looks like a timing belt change is recommended at about 100K. I changed the timing chain on a '01 Chrysler Town and Country mini van with the aid of a factory repair manual and some Chrysler forum help. I have also changed out a heater core on a 98 Dodge Ram 1500, which requires pulling the dash back from the firewall. Point being, I can do a lot of repair myself with the aid of Haynes manual and good advice from a good fourm. I am buying this car for teeenagers to drive to school. Any advice is appreciated.
thanks,
Mark

 

Definitely change the belt, idler, tensioner, and water pump. You can buy compete kits to save a little money. It's a fine little car. It has it's quirks like headlights that burn out too fast and brake dust all over. It needs regular TLC like any older car. I wouldn't expect to buy it and never have any trouble. Anything over 100k miles can break at any moment IMHO. I've done some major work to mine with bent valves but it's holding together at over 175k miles.

 

Before you attempt to DIY the timing belt, these cars have variable valve timing and there are special alignment procedures. That is not to discourage but just for FYI.
Stan

 

I'd also see if the dealer/seller has the maintenance records for the vehicle. I know these cars have some common issues that do crop up (I gots one too). If the timing belt has been done, fantastic; huge plus. The VVT solenoids are kind of a weak point and tend to fail/leak oil in addition the cam seals do have a tendency to leak if not replaced. The coil springs also seem to have a higher failure rate than other brands. Don't be dissuaded by these things. The car is great and enjoyable to drive. Just with other Volvos they do require love and a little more patience than some other brands of cars. But the overall quality, safety and enjoyment of the Volvo package is well worth it in my opinion. So much depends on how the car has been treated in its life; thus my requirement to have the previous records to purchase.

 

I had heard of suspension issues with models prior to the mid-2000 version. The later ones have improved suspensions.