HI!

I found a 2001 V70 T5 wagon with 107,000 miles for $5800. I'm test driving it early next week, and if I like it, will be getting a Volvo mechanic to do a once over before making an offer.

Are there specific quirks to this year/model that I need to watch out for? Since I am hauling around a little one these days, I want to know as much as possible about it before bringing it into the family.

I'd appreciate any tips you could pass on.

Thanks!

 

Well, from various threads on this site, there are 2 major issues. First, ETM (electronic throttle monitor) is a problem area. So bad that Volvo bit the bullet and warrants them for 10 years, 200K miles. Newer ones don't have this problem. Second, and a big expense if you're hit with it, is the transmission. There's a software upgrade to eliminate the "feature" that had the trans disengage when stopped. These trannys are also more failure prone than later (Geartronic) ones. Volvo, for reasons unexplained, believes that trans fluid never needs changing in "normal" driving, and doesn't provide a normal, easy-to-reach dipstick to check the fluid.

Per Consumer Reports, the later year models are more reliable overall. '01 was the first year of this generation, so "bugs" do exist. Spend some time searching this site, and read the S 60 stuff, too, as the powertrain is the same for S 60 and V 70.