I’m looking at buying a “01” S80, what problems if any should I look for. It’s has 163,000 miles, new timing belt at around 100k,new tires and rear brakes recently, 1owner. I’ll be going over to look and drive it tonight. I’m currently driving a “96” 850 with 160k. no major problems. I have read some reviews on the S80 and mostly anyone has had lots of the same problems. So should I stay away from this model? Asking price $4,000
Thanks in advance for any info.
Bob.

 

oil cap.
tranny fluid.
strut mounts.
repair records.

 

take a look at the timing and serpentine belts yourself just to see if there is any cracking on them... thats still a long time ago that that job was done..

 

I'd take a look at these items as well:

- ABS module/brake booster
- ETM make sure the throttle body recall was done.
- transmission history, a lot of s80's from the 99-01 have had many troubles. (mine was rebuilt by my warranty company)
- I just also had my struts/control arm bushings/tie rods/shock absorbers replaced also - that was very expensive just as much as rebuilding a transmission - warranty company took care of that too.

 

I think I’m going to pass on buying this car, I have had 2 older Volvo’s a 740 and 850 now with minor problems. The more I read here the less likely I will buy it. Don’t get me wrong the car looks and drives nice but I think I’ll be putting more money into repairs than whatI paid for the car.

 

i had 4 or 5 volvo's before i bought my s80, and bought one afterward (I sold it since it couldn't compare to the s80 i already had).

 

Onebads, dont be so turned off of the s80;s... they are great cars, but generally speaking anything earlier than a 2002 model is just looking for trouble...
If your the mechanically competent type then maybe its fine but someone like me without time or experience to do alot of the mechanical work, the 2002 was the obvious choice

maybe you can look at a newer model if you are still interested... they really are great cars and if you make a long drive in one you will know the difference between an S80 and any other car.. you just feel more comfortable, happier, and you actually feel safer...

 

Thanks for all the input. I do like the S80 alot,but some of the reviews I read were scary. I'll do some research on the "02" and up. thanks again.
Bob.

 

Hows the research coming along? Any closer to a decision regarding the s80?

 

ball joints go bad too.. and window regulators.. just like any other used car...

 

Ball joints are cheap!

 

Bigern45, “ball joints go bad too and window regulators” I expect things to go wrong with any use car but from what I read the S80 has many problems right from the get go, never mind used. The S80 seems too have a lot more issues than most other cars and for the price you would think the quality would be a lot better. I have owned 3 Volvo’s, many Saab’s and GM cars with a lot less issues.