I posted this on the RWD forum and I thought I would put it here too for feedback:

Many of the posts in this forum describe the intricacies, for lack of a better word, about Volvos. From what I have been able to gather, there seems to be a consensus that Volvos are easier to work on than other cars and most Volvo owners, at least based on what I have read here, perform their own maintenance. That said, could someone offer further explanation as to why they are "easier" to work on? Also, since I am an auto mechanics idiot, but always looking to learn new things, would a class at the local community college in auto mechanics 101 better prepare me to do my own simple maintenance? Or should I be on the lookout for a more Volvo-specific class? Is there any truth to the perception, widely held by non Volvo owners that Volvos are maintenance bills waiting to pile up? One person even remarked "Why get a Volvo, something is always tearing up on them and they cost and arm and a leg to fix. Sure they run forever but not unless you are planning to take responsibility for them like you would another kid." Again, I apologize for sounding stupid, I am just trying to ensure I am not at the mercy of someone else (mechanic) when I take the step and buy a Volvo. My auto mechanics knowlege is green at best.