1998s are NOT on the Consumer Reports "avoid " list at this time, except for the AWDs, but it's not just the '98s that they say to avoid. The 2001 2WD V70 IS on the famous "Used Cars to Avoid" list, along with S80s.

At least 1/2 my problems have been exactly the same problems that the 850s have had, often right down to the same replacement p.n.

AC evaporator, cabin temp sensor, heater core, thermostat, torque arm bushing, sway bar end links, turbo oil return line, skipping windshield wipers, trip computer switch, glove box latch, seat belts, rocking driver's seat, ignition switch and the battery(2). Only the battery, the ignition switch, the frozen brake caliper and the 100lb. truck tire have disabled the car. The remainder of the problems have been simply annoying, expensive or both.

Only the light sockets (recall item) and the power door locks were unique V70 parts as far as I know. So if it were JUST the unique 1998 parts that failed, the car would been my best car, ever.

See Kino's survey at http://kinovolvo.velez.ws/

BTW, up until 20 seconds after the collision with the truck tire early Monday AM, my engine was very tight and still used no oil after 125,000 miles. The transmission still shifted like new. The seats are great, and the car is safe and fun to drive. Should the car survive the claims adjuster and reconstruction, I won't dump it (yet) but I'd also need a lot more proof before I'd buy another new Volvo.

-Punxsutawney Phil