Turbos can be very reliable IF you are good about routine maintenance. I mean very good, religously good - don't ignore any noises, smells, drips - there is no set mileage to replace a turbo - I've seen the RWD's go 250,000+ miles on the same turbo with synthetic oil and staying on top of everything.

I've seen turbos toast in 30,000 miles with crappy oil, ignored change intervals, no cool down, flooring the car from cold, etc...just stupid stuff.

My 850 is pretty darn reliable and amazing stable - boohoo to the RWD guys (OK I like RWD too).

Find out about the "lawn mower syndrome"...basically cold starting the car and driving it 10 feet and powering down....floods, causes nasty carbon build up, etc AND the car may not start until you clear the cause.

Low mileage is always good but find out about previous owner's driving patterns - you don't want boy racer's car NOR do you want grandma's car who lives in small town and drives to grocery store 1/4 mile away on city streets...

You are shopping for a used car at a dealer? Still get an independent mech to check it over.

PLEASE DO NOT BE OFFENDED BY THIS - I KNOW I SOUND LIKE AN ASSHOLE:

Last but not least - what the heck is wrong with you? - You love and are marrying a person that you care more deeply for than anyone in your life - and you allow this person to drive a car in a dangerous condition. Cars with turbochargers should not be driven with the turbo siezed (is it seized?). The car has a relatively lower compression ratio for boost reasons - I hate to tell you this but getting on freeway with no "juice" is very dangerous. Acceleration and avoidance are important safety features.

ALSO - I really wonder if a turbo is an appropriate car for you......

SORRY - Call me a butt head if you like - but I had to say this.