My father in law is looking at a 2000 S70SE with about 100Km (60K mi) up in Abbotsford, BC at The Volvo Lady (www.volvolady.com) She's asking $18,900.00 CDN which seems a bit high even after the US$ conversion, but supposedly it is in really nice shape and the seller has a very good rep from what i've heard.

So, is there anything in particular we should be looking for or asking about on this car (maintenance or eyeballing for trouble spots typical to this model?) Also what is special about the "SE" model?

Thanks - I love this website - it's been a huge help in owning a opperating my 850!

scott k.
96 850T wagon

Check to be sure the electronic throttle control has been replaced. This is one expensive item and it fails regularly.

The ETMs are now covered by Volvo, free.

Klaus
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(V♂LV♂s 1975 164, 1995 854T, 1998 V70R)

For that price the car better have a VERY good extended warranty with at least few years on it. Otherwise, it should be no more then 8.5k US in a great shape.
Have your mechanic take a serious look at ABS module, shocks, struts, ETC (the dreaded electronic throtle control). Also, S70 usually developes an annoying trademarked rattle sooner or later, so watch out for that too. The rattle is from some plastic trim part in a very hard to reach place breaking. Nothing threatening but very annoying.
In conclusion, do not buy that car. Get a nice honda, they are more reliable and lot more cheaper to fix.
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00 S70 GLT SE

Amen!!

From what I understand, the SE has all the bells and whistles without having a turbo...the car is WAY, WAY over priced. I bought my S70 T-5 model (high pressure turbo) in great shape with 87K miles on it last year for $10,000 (U.S.) and I thought I was paying too much. The S70's issues are not bad...similar to the 850's so that's the A/C (though sturdier than the 850), timing belt on the '99 and up at 100K miles so you've got a ways to go yet. Make sure the transmission fluid is pinkish in color and not dark brown and smells burnt. I'd say it's coming off of warranty and so she's getting rid of it. Could be a nice car but won't have much power. Just make sure it has complete service records and is checked out by a mechanic who knows this car. Good luck!
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1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon. My cars have been running so well lately they've got me worried.