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It depends on your perspective. A lot of us here on the BB are respectable "Level 2" or higher mechanics, and most if not all of the work you've paid to have done would be considered routine do-it-yourself projects. No way would I pay someone to replace my wheel bearings or water pump! And you should know that all that work done is pretty much predictable... bushings, bearings etc. won't last forever on an 18 year old car. In the 5 years I've had my '92 I've put a similar amount into my car, but at least half of that is for fun stuff like suspension goodies, cam, exhaust, and a decent sound system. Now that I only drive about 12K a year - less than half the old rate - my car has required ZERO unanticipated repairs in 2 years. But over the holidays, the front bushings are getting redone, it's timing belt time, and those E-code headlights are getting installed.
On my '88 a number of years ago, a small radiator leak became an overheating emergency on the way to work, and I was forced to use the local Volvo shop. Five hundred bucks later I was back on the road. Fast forward to 3 summers ago, the '92 needed a new rad + hoses, and the whole shebang cost me abour $200 and 2 hours of my time.
If you're not inclined to handle routine repairs on your own, AND you really like the car, I would try to find an independent shop that understands and respects RWD Volvos. They won't hurt you as badly as a Volvo dealer will.
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Thank goodness we don't get all the government we pay for. -- Wiley Post
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