I'd first make sure the car is straight from the crash. If not, either have 'em fix it correctly (dial 1-800-L-A-W-Y-E-R-S if need be) or total it.

Otherwise, I usually have both the front AND rear suspensions aligned. The 850-70 rear delta link suspension is prone to misalignment. I use a Porsche racing shop that also unbent my car after I went off-roading with it (thanks to a wayward Taurus). At 113,000 miles my car tracks perfectly and with no vibration right up into completely illegal speeds.

Otherwise, it might be helpful to find a tame independent Volvo shop and a source for used parts. And learn to twirl a wrench yourself for the minor repairs.

European imported cars cost more to run than 1974 Dodge Darts, that's just a fact of life. I learned it about 20 years ago with my first Saab. I still drive European imported cars, so I guess I must think the cost is worth it.

I can rationalize the Volvo repair costs partly because a new BMW 745i leases for $1065/month, and $1065 will pay for a lot of repairs on a Volvo. Partly because it hasn't been any worse than my other Eurocars.

-Punxsutawney Phil

'98 V70T5M, 113k mi., sport suspension, Mobil-1, iPd stabilizer bars, Volvo strut tower brace and skidplate, Valentine-1