I have seen some great deals on V40s and V70s on Craigslist from private owners. A 2003 and a 2004 with 150,000 Miles on each. Kinda spooky you dont see higher mileage ones for sale.
Do they last much longer without major expense each car looks in excellent shape and garage kept. No lights and I am told no issues. I am not sure if the original timing belts were done and when the next is due.

So the question is are these still reliable and last? Can I get 6 months to a year on a 2004 V40
My last Volvo was a 1968 sedan and '65 wagon I tooled through the 1980's with.
Thanks,
Len

 

As with any used car, maintenance history and your own inspection are key. While each car and model has their set of common fault areas, that's not to say the car you are looking at if properly maintained will have those problems. About the only area where I've seen people give up on a volvo is when a transmission goes (most common with the AWDs).

As to your question can you get six months to a year on a 2004 V40? I think the question is more like what should you expect to keep it for 5 years. So regarding the big expenses - timing belts are due every 10 years/100K miles so I'd expect a 2004 with 150K miles should have had that service done within the past 2 years. Other problems are more annoyances - spring failures, sensors etc. VVT gears can get clogged so check if the car was running clean oil - synthetic is best. PS - I own a 2000 S40 and a 1995 850T (a daily driver at 21 years old) so with proper upkeep the car will last.

 

Thanks MT
(I do love Forums)
I just found out that the 2004 with 146K miles had the belt changed at 120K. Next I'll have to assess the maintenance history. Check underneath for leaks and look into the eyes of the owner. Then carfax (the owner is iffy on giving too much until we meet)
It is good to hear that your well kept vehicle has been reliable. It does mean a lot.
Thanks again,
Len

 

I purchased a 2003 V40 with 117,000mi. on it this past winter.
I had the timing done by a Volvo master tech almost immediately.
New battery, engine and cabin air filters, replaced almost all of the exterior bulbs, and did the B4 Servo Cover update along with a full ATF flush because we all know that even though volvo claims to have "lifetime" ATF, its better to be safe than sorry. Oh and just put in new spark plugs last week.

Yet to be done is my front suspension.

Overall, I've had a wonderful experience with my '03 V40. Bought her for $2,600 and put in around the same in preventative maintenance. Worth it in my book.

P.S.
she's great on gas with the low pressure 1.9