First off, I'm new to the forum and hopefully I will be a new member to the Volvo family. I've never owned a Volvo but have known many people that swear by them (many of which are Swedes). For the most part I've only owned Nissan's up to this point so going European/Swedish will be a brand new experience. At any rate, I have a few questions to ask before even looking at the car:

1. I found a 2002 S40 with 120K miles for $4500 and I'm very interested. For starters, the dealer is showing what looks like an authentic timing belt replacement sticker on the vehicle and I was wondering about this. Is this the general practice when a Volvo gets the timing belts replaced? Also, is this something that can easily be faked?

2. How are the transmissions on these cars? They are automatics and I was wondering what type of lifespan they generally run. My own personal logic tells me that an automatic transmission + a high pressure turbo = short life. I could be completely off base so I'd appreciate some feedback. I'm looking to drive this car at least until the next timing belt change so I need the transmission to last.

3. What types of things should I look out for when looking at the car at the dealer? Again, this is my first Volvo so I'm not sure what types of things to check for.

Thanks again for any input and feedback. I appreciate it!

 

Found this on another website. It has very good information but still wondering about the timing belt sticker.

Volvo S/V40 FAQ - 30 Forty 50

 

Volvos are great cars. I think that is somewhat of a low price from a dealer. You might want to look at BBB and look at that dealerships reputation to see their reliability as a good dealer. To get a good estimate of the price you should pay, check out KBB, consider the condition, and go from there. It's a good year for it's engine, and from what I've heard from friends, the transmission (other than feeling less sporty than some models) is pretty good and relatively reliable. If a good maitenence regiment is enforced, volvos will last a while. The timing belt sticker can be put on, as for how easy it is to fake; I don't know. It seems like it would be easy to slap a sticker on it, but the dealer may have a Carfax or Autocheck report that can speak for the vehicles past. If you have a mechanically inclined friend, especially experienced with Volvos (some describe them as strangely put together) I suggest they come and check it out with you. Hope this helps.

 

If it is a 1.9T (2.0T outside the US) then it is a low pressure turbo. The T4 (not sold in the US) is a higher pressure turbo. While these cars are fairly lively performers, they are not over powered and not very stressful to the transmissions.
Stan

 

Thanks for the replies guys, I appreciate it! I'll be checking her out in the next few days so I'll check back with an update. Thanks again!