Hi,

I am looking at a 2003 V70 w/170000 miles. Over all it looks pretty good. What can expect to be a reasonable life-time for this car, engine and auto tranny? Is this car easily capable of 250,000 with proper care?

I need a 100 mile per day commuter and this is my preferred model Volvo. I also want to be able to use the car for a 3000 mile trip next spring. I'm mechanical and can fix a lot on the car but I am not familiar with Volvo reputation as a very high mileage capable vehicle. I do drive a 1985 Mercedes diesel w/185000 and from experience know that I can hit 300 or more with the right maintenance.

A few years back I owned a 1998 V70R and did a lot of work on it so I have a clue working on Volvo and can fix a fair amount when needed but I am hoping the simpler car will have simpler demands too.
I want my Volvo wagon though.
Thanks much

 

I currently have a 03' V70 n/a with auto trans with 90,000 miles. The non-turbo engine is very efficient and bullet proof. Other then brakes/tires/oil just as gas. I am averaging 20-24 city and 30-32 highway. Let me know if you have any specific questions?

 

Now I'm looking at 2, an '03 w/167K and an '02 w/100K. Leaning towards the ,02 both na and FWD. The non-turbo appeals to me, a turbo wouldn't 100 % scare me off but I'd like to run 87 octane if I could. Normal maintenance right up to timing belt changes are fine for me. Brakes especially when done by oneself saves a ton of money. Plugs wires, and I guess these have on plug coils that can be expensive to replace, but shouldn't be hard to do. I used FCP Groton for a lot of parts in my 98 R and they were quick and fair priced. I think I'm going to take the jump as long as the A/C works right on the above mentioned cars.

 

Hello, The comment you made regarding being capable enough to do timing belts doesn't jibe with a fear of spark coil replacement. They're so easy to replace you can do it blindfolded. They're not expensive to buy. They don't go bad that often. A Volvo parts guy in Texas told me, "I stock 'em and I've never sold one." Do a transmission flush with the CORRECT fluid and see that the latest software has been downloaded upon buying one of these cars. Maintenance records are what you want-alas we seem to find them with private sale cars only. Kira

 

The Volvo I5 motor and tranny should go 500,000 when properly maintained (300,000 easy).
Volvo Cars | Clubs | Volvo High Mileage Club

As for the fuel octane, all Volvos should be fueled with 91 octane. However, they will run fine on 87 and you may not be able to tell the difference. THEY say it wears other parts when lower octane is use, I'm not sure. I use 91 and get better gas mileage with it.
https://www.customers.volvocars.com/...0_06a.htm#pg84