I have never owned a Volvo, but I am looking at a 1994 850 Turbo with 122,000 miles. The car has the manual in the glove box, but no service records. I ran the VIN# through Carfax and it came up clean, with just some emission inspection problem while in Texas.

The car was owned by the first owner for eight years, then by two different owners for one year each, which makes me a bit suspicious.

The car has puckering around the passenger air bag. The dealer had it glued and the drooping headliner as well by an auto upholstery shop. I have read that it was the glue they used that year. The Carfax report did not list any air bag deployment.

The Check Engine light is on, and the dealer will allow $350 to repair. He said it comes up the 143 code for the Anti-Knock Sensor. I have read that this can be a recurring problem. Is it?

I have also read that the Transmission and the Air Conditioner Evaporator should be checked on these models. Right?

The last problem is with the high headrests and the B pillar on the driver's side creating a blind spot. I am a driver who has to look behind even though I use my mirrors. I have read that some drivers either attach a wide-angle mirror onto the top of the driver's side-view mirror or a Euro split-view mirror. Is it possible to attach a mirror like the one on the newer SAAB? Any thoughts on the effectiveness of this?

The car is great looking. I just have some reservations, especially since I am a Volvo novice.

I appreciate any input or suggestions. Thank you.

KLA