take it to another shop!

sounds like time for a visit to a Volvo Dealer with a reputable shop.

the starter switch could cause this type of problem, but it can be diagnosed normally kust by wiggleing the key in the ignition, a easy thing to rule out!

the starter itself should never have burnt up in that short of time, this should be a warrenty repair.

A loose fan belt would probably make noises at most engine speeds if it is really loose. there is a automatic belt tensioner that compensates for this.

I think they are just changeing parts on your car to hope they can fix it. The mechanic shuold first diagnose teh problem completely and then change bad parts.

In aviation, we call this Shotgun Troubleshooting!! keep changning parts untill the problem goes away..very costly way to troubleshoot a problem. usually a inexperienced mechanic does this.

take the car to volvo and request a "Master Technician" work on your car, not a regular Tech!!!!!!

I think you are being ripped off! Your original starter was probably OK, there is a starter solenoid that engages the starter, this could be your problem, but if the starter was enganging it would be contacting your flywheel with it's bendix gear (starter gear) and this would make a load noise, you can duplcate it by turning the key to the start position with the engine running, if this is the same sound you are talking about, then the solenoid is probably bad.

Dan
FAA Licensed Aircraft mechanic
1997 850 GLT Turbo.