Hello,
I recently inherited my parent's 1990 760 wagon, and its in great shape, 122,500 mi., runs well, etc. I'm wondering how how often the car needs to be serviced. My parents religiously took it in every 5,000 miles when the light went off, and because it tends to burn oil a little fast, had it changed every 3,000 mi. They preferred to take it to the dealer - and I know "stuff" was done each time. I'm wondering if its necessary for me to do the same - the dealer's a bit expensive, but I have a great mechanic who takes good care of it. I take care of the car; change the oil every 3,000 mi. as well, and stay on top of regular maintenance, and repairs, etc. but is it really necesary for me to have it looked at each time the service light goes on? It is a 15 year old car, but then again, my first volvo, a '78 245 wagon lasted me almost 20 years, and only had about 145,000 on it when I sold it, and I didn't take it in that often, but still kept on top of the maintenance, etc.

I love the car and am hoping to get it to at least 200,000 mi (providing nothing major goes on it before then). I've got about 20,00 mi.until the timing belt needs to be replace again - so I figure I'll wait and see what happens then.

Thanks in advance.