Hi - I am newly single after being married many years to someone who repaired and maintained my many Volvos.

I have had my 850GL (170k) for four years and was carefree until recently. I take it to an independent shop. I have had some problems that I have postponed the service the shop has recommended. Also some others have cropped up. I'd sure like some suggestions/advice! Thanks in advance!!!

1. Automatic Transmission - About every third time I start the car it has trouble shifting up. I have solved it by putting it into 2nd, driving slower than normal (about 20mph) and then shifting up to drive. Usually after doing this twice, drive will shift normally. I have not yet checked the automatic transmission oil but I just had it in the shop for oil change. I have a call into the shop to see if that service includes checking fluids... Any ideas?

2. Valve Clicking - from reading the forums it sounds like the oil pump seal. The clicking happens when the car is started and sometimes lasts a little while. I sometimes hear it when the car has been running awhile. The shop checked the oil pressure and said it was 85# and that was good. They want to change the valve seals for $400. Shall I tell them they should do the oil pump seal instead?

3. Trunk Lifters - no spoiler -- A Suggestion!! I had been having the same trouble other owners were having with their lifters. When I had the third set put on I had heard about the type you use for the trunks with the spoiler. I thought it would be heftier so I had them use those. So far, they are working great and have lasted longer than the previous sets.

4. Blower/Climate Control Module - my blower went out in May with a loud noise and even a little smoke into the interior. I had it looked at by the shop and was told not only do I need the blower motor ($225) but I also need the climate control module at $800 -- for a total with labor of over $1400. Ouch.... Does anyone know if I just have the motor replaced will the defrost work? I do get heat out of the system - it just doesn't blow. Boy do I need a defroster in Seattle but I don't have the bucks to fix the whole thing? Any ideas???

Hey, thanks for any ideas you may have. I truly do appreciate it!!!

Marcia


There has been a clicking noise as mentioned in other postings. They want to replace the valve seals. After reading