I own a 2001 Volvo s80 t6. The transmission is only at 109k miles and it seems like it refuses to go into 3rd gear. What does this mean??? I've heard many different opinions from mechanics ranging from a small valve fix to rebuilding/replacing the whole transmission!
What is the likely hood of this car lasting after I pay the thousands to repair it???

 

Do you have an independent Volvo shop near you? The dealer is not likely to be straight with you either way, as they are just as happy putting a rebuilt transmission into a car that is not worth it, or try to steer you to the sales dept. for a new car when your car is just fine save the transmission. Independent Volvo shops tend to have a very loyal following because they shoot straight with their customers and honestly advise them when repairing is a good idea and when it is not and almost every decent sized city has one. 109K is not that many miles for that car unless it was totally neglected until now.

 

I do have one near me and I've been calling almost everyday and no one ever returns my calls.

 

In that case maybe they are an exception to the rule that most are very good. The next best choice would be a shop that specializes in European cars.