1. Timing belt and Serp belt replacement at 70K miles is a must. If not done, they should do this before a purchase.

2. A/C's...especially evaporators go bad on these. Check to make sure it really does blow cold. Ask if the evap has been replaced. If it is bad, the replacement involves an entire dash tear-down ($1200+ for this).

3. Gas tank/headlights/ignition key tumbler recalls on this car (I believe). Make sure all recalls have been done.

4. Has the PCV system been maitained? If not you develope engine seal leaks.

5. Engine and transmission in good shape? Has the tranny been flushed? Volvo says it's to never be done...they are wrong, but good to ask if it's been done anyway- and if you buy it, do it as one of your first maitenance items.

6. Any trouble codes or a check engine light? Make sure this all checks out.

7. Suspension issue? By this mileage the endlinks are shot as possibly the struts and shocks. Check to see if this work has been done. If the suspension is bad...crashing over bumps, then either negotiate the price down or get them to renew these components before you buy.

Other little things go wrong on this car but nothing you can't deal with for little money.

If you buy this car, find a good independent mechanic to service it unless you plan to do it yourself. The dealer will keep you in the poor house. Also, get a qualified Volvo mechanic to check it out thoroughly before you buy. Carfax is good but it doesn't deal at all with the wear and tear and failed components on a car. Unfortunately the car is to old for the dealer to make it a "certified" used car so you'll be on your own once you pay and drive it off of the lot.
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1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic (125K), 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red (45K), Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon (Sold at 140K and miss her). My cars have been running so well lately they've got me worried.