I found an '89 wagon locally. 127,200 mi. 5 speed. This one will be my daily driver.
It has some of the usual problems but nothing that can't, hopefully, be easily remedied.
Tail gate issues: The rear wiper works and so do the license plate lights (one of which I broke while removing). But there is a broken wire visible at each hinge so I'm guessing this is for the rear window defroster? The broken wires look heavier than the others. Also the rear washer doesn't squirt.
Electrical issues: The fuel gauge is not working. The temp gauge is. The right low beam is out. I can see that the filament is burned. Easy replacement.
Drivetrain issues: The clutch disengages almost as soon as you press the pedal and, obviously, doesn't engage until the pedal is almost all the way back out. I hope this is just a matter of adjustment.
Coachwork issues: It's missing the lower trim piece on the left side and the paint has some blemishes. Also the Volvo logo is missing from all wheel covers. I'd like to remove the roofrack at some point.
The interior (dark blue cloth) is in pretty nice shape with only a couple of splits in the dash. The right side door pocket is just a broken piece of plastic attached to the door. It has the third seat which seems to be a little funky. It doesn't seem to want to fold out smoothly. Part of the mechanism looks like it is disconnected. I'll probably remove it entirely.
I haven't really had time to study up on these problems. Any advice on the tailgate wiring, rear washer and fuel gauge is appreciated.
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'80 DL 2 door, '89 DL Wagon