volvomoh--the old saying "knowledge is power" is a very true statement. I just bought a used v70R AWD about 6 months ago through an independent used volvo specialist. Car was through the auto auctions and was an off-lease vehicle. Since my own love/hobby is auto restoration and maintanence I take great pride in looking for the "right" used car. I probably looked 3-4 months before I bought this one. Again--if you know the "who what when where how" of cars and what to look for, its the only way to go. I basically got a $41 car for $20K and it has been great. Sure, there are some minor things and the car had good "basic" volvo maintanence but the way I look at it is I let the first guy take it in the shorts on depreciation and I now own a great car. I have had 3 volvos---all pre-owned! Again-knowledge is power and the old "buyer beware".
Things like car-fax are also a big help. Its the only way to go!