I have a 1985 Volvo 240DL that I need to have repaired. I've contacted several Volvo repair shops and dealers in my area (Maryland near Washington, DC) only to learn that they are either reluctant or flat out refuse to work on such cars because of their ages. They keep telling me to junk it because it would cost more to repair the car than it is worth.

Actually, I consider the car worth repairing. Not for financial reasons but because I love my Volvo! Yes, it's just a machine--and a very old machine at that! However, it can still be repaired and, once repaired, will work well and reliably for a long, long time, with routine maintenance. Furthermore, the cost of another 240 would be just as much or more than the cost of repairing my old brick!

And another thing. They don't make Volvos the way they used to. The wagons don't have near the cargo space of a 240 wagon. All of the new models look like Honda and Toyotas. And, none of them has the personality of a 240! In my humble opinion, anyone who buys these 5-figure Japanese knock-offs is getting themselves robbed!

There. I said it! I feel better!

Sandra.