Hi, folks:

I bought this baby 15 days before, Volvo 240DL wagon, made in 1990. It costed me $2800. The insurance here in Texas for me is $177 for 6 months. And, I've drove it for 600 miles without any problem.

However, 20 mins before, my car stopped suddenly when I was in the left lane, and would not start again. I tried 20+ times, the engine still couldn't start--choke, but wouldn't run. When I returned the key to "II" position, all warning lights were on. I gave up, and pushed the car from the left lane to right lane. The car is really really heavy. God! it was the worst time I had in my life. All the cars on the road were waiting for me. Fortunately, people living in this small town are really nice. 2 guys behind me gave my car a push, so that my car could go off the road. Then, one of them tried my car, and he said maybe I gave too much gas to the engine ( I couldn't understand). Suddenly, a police car stopped by and asked what was the problem. And, the guy said the engine died, and waited for 5 mins, it might be OK. Then, the police pulled away. According to his suggestion, we waited for 5 mins, and re-start the engine, however, it still stucked. So, we gave up. Then, another police car stopped by. Two officers got down and asked me whether I needed some help. So, under the protection of police, the guy used his car to push my car back to where I am living. Thanks god, it is not too far. Thereafter, I thanked the guy ( his name is Brian ). What's funniest is I tried the engine again, it worked. I tried 20+ times again, No problem! Man, I was crazy about this!

Is this a reliable car?

Now, when I am typing, I still feel really scared, because the engine stopped so suddenly and traffic was fast, if there was a car behind me, I would have probabaly been injured. Thanks god!

This is my story. I have some questions:

1. What was the problem? Starter, or something else.

2. Now, the car can work, but, I am really afraid that it will stop again on the road. What should I do?

3. Tomorrow, I will get this car to a mechanic shop. What should I ask him to pay special attention to?

4. Anyone experienced such a problem? Do you have any idea to treat this urgent situation?

Thanks! Folks!

Shawn