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Hi,
The following is my standard reply which I cut and paste in response to this question.
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If you search this forum on the topic you'll likely turn up lots of similar inquiries. The 850 is a much more complex car than the 240 and requires more attention. My opinion is that unless there is a verifiable maintenance history, stay away. If you'd like to see what I consider to be an average history, I've posted mine at:
http://www.geocities.com/hwy51_guzzi/carhistory.htm
The following are known expensive (labor) repairs that have a good chance of showing up.
1. A/C evaporator leaks. Replacement runs about $1000
2. The auto trans, if neglected, can run about $3000 for replacement. (ATF should be changed annually.
Other items include:
The coolant recovery tank cap should be the green. The original grey caps cracked or warped, causing loss of coolant and overheating. Cheap part, under $10.
Turbo oil return line leaks. Cheap DIY project. New gasket & 0-ring and 30 minutes.
Front wheel hub bearing failure. Hub replacement at about $120 plus labor
Spring seats and strut mounts $?
Ball joints, individually replaceable in pre-94 I believe, after that the lower control arm must be replaced.
Engine mounts, upper mount cheap and easy, others about average.
Transmission PNP switch, failure causes 3rd gear limp-home-mode, DIY but involved.
Shift microswitch, failure prevents shifting out of park, easy fix.
If you hear lifter noise (hydraulic) could be as involved as dropping oil pan and replacing 0-rings or as easy as using correct weight oil. Never heard of a lifter actually failing.
Timing belt must be changed at 70k after '93. Don't buy a '93. Broken belt means rebuild.
You can go to Volvospeed.com's Bay 13 for DIY and service hints on the FWD models.
If you've been taking your 240 to a shop you trust, have them inspect any 850 you're interested in. Have them include a compression test.
Good luck. I've had mine since January and it has only needed a front O2 sensor. BTW, up to and including '95, you can access error codes and reset your CEL and Service lights from a diagnostic pod under the hood. No tools required. Starting in '96 you need a scan tool for the codes and a Service light reset tool to reset that light.
Good luck
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BTW, you won't have to replace the t-belt. It should be good for another 60k.
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Erwin in Memphis, '95 855t
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