I just purchased (one week ago)a 1993 850 GLT (Her name is Libby). .Before Libby, I owned a 1986 240 DL (Betsy)

Betsy was a great car and was probably the reason I survived an accident 3 years ago. I was very comfortable & secure in that car (drove for 6 years.)

I'm just going to put it out there. I know NOTHING about cars. This is the first time I've ever researched info on my own, as I've always asked my dad for help. I thought i might act like a responsible adult and read the owners manual. Well, I still have questions.

Overall the car seems to be in good condition, however it did sit undriven for about one year

1. the shift lock release: please explain the function. Correct postion and why I would want it released. Honestly, I was messing with it earlier today and am not sure how it was positioned. Not sure it makes a difference when driving, so I thought I should find out. (Immediate help needed here)

2. the guy who sold the car to me told me that if I wanted to replace the current Volvo radio (b/c I currently don't have a CD player and want one)i would have to find one just like it with CD (something about it being large)

3. Winter, Economy & Sport Mode: I get when to use them - but are you wither Economy, Sport OR Winter. or Economy Winter or Sport Winter. What are the risks if say I accidentally hit Winter and it's not Winter. (I've already changed it accidentally - but caught on quickly)

4. Since I know where the car was last serviced - I had the records faxed to me on Thurs. Seems it needs an O2 sensor - is that something that needs immediate attention. I'm taking the car back for a few things the week of 2/7/05 - can it wait that long?

I am just not comfortable in her yet. Mainly b/c I am not sure how she will handle nor do I know how to detect problems. Any additional tips or "things to watch for" on this car would be greatly apprecaited. I want to keep here for a bit and then buy a much newer SUV (to be named Elizabeth).

Thanks