I am in the market for a 740 or 940 wagon. I have located a 92 740 Turbo wagon with 140K for around $5000.00. The maint. has been regular and the condition is good.

Should I be worried about the turbo at this mileage? What is a realistic replacement cost? I currenly have a 87 240 and 92 740 naturally aspirated, so the turbo is a new animal. Does the turbo add significant cost to other systems, like exhaust? I just did the 240 for $150.00 from the catalytic converter back. Can I expect the same with the turbo ... or morrrre?

I do all my own maintanence. What other problems may I encounter that are different than my other naturally aspirated bricks?

Thanks for any thoughts!

Bill

Bill,

Just take it for a test drive. If it is a Turbo than I suspect you are a proud owner of a new Brick already. Congratulations.....

Do you really need the extra performance of a turbo? If not, I would say pass on this car. The turbo not only requires extra maintenance for itself, but also makes other jobs more difficult. For example, it makes changing the oil filter more difficult.

But if your driving habits require the extra performance of a turbo, then this trade-off may be worth it. My personal preference is that a turbo is not worth it. You will have to make your own judgement on that.

Good luck!

I for one could not imagine life without my turbo. IMHO the NAs are way underpowered.

Changing oil might be a bit tougher, but its still easier on my turbo than on my s-10 or mercedes.

But, to your question: Yes turbos can be pricey if they die and as far as I know its really hard to tell if one is going to die. In a worst case scenario a rebuilt turbo with installation will cost about 1000 dollars. Usually much less if you can find a decent one used. I have seen turbos die at 50,000 miles and some still run strong at 250,000 miles. It kinda depends one if the owner let them cool down, how much they were used, and if they ran good/synthetic oil and changed it regulaly.