I just had my oil changed and radiator fluid flushed in my 850 turbo wagon with 101k miles on it.

The service guy said three things. First, he has not ever seen a better-kept Volvo 850 before, let alone one with 101k miles on it. Second, he said it's running very well, as far as he could tell. (I know that, but thanks! Good to hear!)

But it has an oil leak from the main lower seal. He said in time, to fix it, will mean taking the engine apart. He said once you're doing that, you might as well rebuilding the engine. He said right now its a minor oil leak. I will start keeping track of how much oil I need to add. So far, I've not had to add any as the oil level is fine after 2,500 miles.

I've some questions. I know it all depends on a lot of things, but how long do think it would be until the oil leak gets bad enough to demand a fix? Months, a year, a few years, several thousand centuries? Second, about how much would an engine rebuild cost? I'm thinking at least a few thousand American dollars.

What all is done in a typical engine rebuild? It would be nice if they added on an additional turbo that worked with the existing one to provide even more low-end torque and power through 3,500 rpm (the current weak spot in its range), a reprogrammed ECU (akin to IPD's), variable valve timing, and while they were at it, added an efficient, light-weight, and reliable all-wheel drive system. That would be a good start.

Seriously, I'd love to hear what you guys have to say about main seal oil leaks and engine rebuilds. Of the course the idea is going through my head that if the cost is high, I might be better served by getting a different car. All cars wear out at some point. With this situation, it seems it's only a matter of how much money I am willing to spend to keep it working and in my possession.

Thank you!

-Dan