Well, Mr. Chase, I have to say I have not seen so many responses to one "post".
You've certainly struck some nerves.

I have owned my 96' 850 for almost 7 years and am just about to hit that 100L plateau. In viewing the 850 message boards regularly, I can attest to actually having almost every problem that is posted on the brickboard.

I have to say that I love my 850, it's style, it's drive, it's comfort. Going back to the 60's I have owned many Oldsmobiles and Hondas. All were great during their time, and I assume, Volvo has had its "time", too. It sounds like it's "over" for many.

Because I hate the Taurus look of the S60/80's I was actually considering buying a used S70 that would satisfied my Volvo-esque needs and give me some some of the driving "fun" that I have enjoyed over the past many years.

But, alas, there seem to be as many dissatisfied S70 owners as there are 850's.
And, as many, but different, problems. So, it's probably either sink more dollars into the 850 than the car is worth, or head for the Acura dealership.

Yours and others assesment of dealing with Volvo Corp. is very true. Once they've got ya, they don't seem to give a damn about their product. The dealerships certainly convey that same attitude. So, they've probably gotten my bucks for the last time, too.

Joel
850