Dan, I'm still learning some of these volvo purchase tricks -- only bought eight in the last few years -- so I read your tip with interest.

Perhaps abnormal experience, but...

Most every car I bought was not cleaned - had varied organic debris inside and out. But some had been mechanically maintained despite the apparent lack of concern about its looks. I know I'd wash a car before I sold it, but I found it is really useful to wash one before you buy it. That process helps to uncloud your vision of what it could be versus what it is. Not always practical, but it ranks with pulling up the carpets and staring into the oil filler.

Another anomaly - one of the very best bargains and best maintained gems I bought was purchased from a "curbside dealer". In this instance, he didn't know what he had, although it came from the usual donation-wholesale auction path. Even complimented by the state inspector.

Haven't sold one yet, Volvo that is...
--
Art Benstein near Baltimore