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850 vs. well . . . real Volvos . . . 850 1996

posted by  Oliver on  Thu Apr 20 00:55 CST 2006
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last visit: Tue Apr 24 15:09 CST 2012
[RELATED]

Allen,

I am currently on my fourth Volvo and it is my first FWD Volvo. I own a 96 850GLT non-turbo automatic with 133,000 miles. According to the local Volvo dealer, this is one of the best 850's he has seen in a few years. The secret is routine maintenance. More so than the RWD bricks, FWD bricks not only need a little more maintenance they demand it if you want longevity. Not replacing the timing belt when required, every 70K, could cost you an engine. Before buying an 850 check the maintenance records carefully. Good records will not guaranty a problem free car, but it sure helps. If the car is an automatic, check the tranny fluid for color. Dark brown or burnt fluid indicates major tranny problems in your future. Also check that the AC is blowing COLD. The evaporator on 850's tend to go out at about 90K and cost plenty to replace. Only other real issue is the ABS control unit, which can go out really anytime. Dealer wants first born to repair ABS control units. When the unit goes out... contact Vic Rocha in southern California, folks on this board can provide contact info, and he can rebuild the control unit for about $150... Great service.

Now for the fun part. 850's have no shortage of power compared to the RWD Volvos and the turbo will blow your mind. My 850 rides better than any Volvo I have ever owned, and corners like it wants to have fun. I only do about 30% of my own maintenance now and let the dealer have the rest. All in all very happy with the 850 series.

Hope this helps....

Oliver

Over a million Volvo miles and still smiling...

64 122S
66 1800S
86 245DL
96 850GLT






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