Hi all
Looking to upgrade the wife's car. I found a 1993 with 112k on the clock for $5500. What should I look for when I go to check out the car? Thanks for your help, I've got a 1993 945 Turbo wagon, so I don't know much about the FWD.

Chris

A 93 is going to be somewhat of a money pit, from the stance that many changes were made in the later years. If it's going to be put "very good condition", then you may want to look at a few years later. I just went through all that research, and it paid me to get a 97 or later. As a matter of fact, we got 2 97's... Or really buy it right to give room for good repairs, etc.. Say $3200 or so... Just my thoughts, not expert advise by any means....

Nobody mentioned the transmission. If it's an automatic, check the fluid condition. Volvo made the mistake of not requiring regular ATF changes in the maintenance schedule in the owner's manual. ATF should be flushed at least every 50K mi. The '93 is the second year of production, first year in the states. The '92 and '93 models have the shorter t belt change interval because it's a narrower belt. Also, the wheels have four bolts, not five like in later models. As a result, items like brake rotors and wheels will be a little harder to find. Good luck.

also, the timing belt is supposed to be replaced every 50,000 miles. I also agree on the front end work. there's currently a 93 850 on EBay for 3350 at 96K...though reserve not hit yet.

Check the A/C.......it probably needs a recharge or new evap.
braking system......check for smooth braking no warped rotors.
drive it over bumps....suspension test.. watch for loud Clunks.
Look at the oil......should be amber.....and
Make sure your wife actually likes it as well.

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Erik Volvo 854T 1994 Daily Driver and Project car