Volvo answers! Get the answers to your Volvo questions here!

"EL_ULY" (uly)
07/21/2014 at 22:06 • Filed to: None

I'll tell you how Volvo really is. Answers from an expert...240's (limited lol) Ask away. You've been warned

DISCUSSION (69)

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:08

Reliability and cost of maintenance?

nFamousCJ - Keeper of Stringbean, Gengars and a Deezul > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:10

Its pictures like those that really make you realize just how small cylinders really are. For anyone thats never taken apart an engine it's mind boggling. Before I knew, I always though the cylinders were like 6" across or something.

EL_ULY > norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback
07/21/2014 at 22:12

Are you going to go check out a 850 turbo?

EL_ULY > nFamousCJ - Keeper of Stringbean, Gengars and a Deezul
07/21/2014 at 22:13

i had a 1990 525i with the M20. 2.5L straight 6. Them be some tiny cylinders :]

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:14

Might be yeah. Depends if it's still on sale at the end of the summer and I have a job to be able to get gas, oil, and other necessities.

EL_ULY > norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback
07/21/2014 at 22:19

Ok doki sir. Volvo 850 Turbo....

Welp. It's not really a matter of "Volvo issues" more than regular car issues. It will all depend on the previous owner obviously. Each car will be different. I can do a list of (oh on those, ___ happens a lot). I can do that for you but all or none might happen to it. In reality, the thing I could tell you about the 850 Turbos are mostly regular carts stuff. Did you want me to tell you all the common things about the 850 Turbo of just specifically common 850 issues? I do not mind sharing both. Before I continue, I want to tell you that I am an ex Volvo Master Tech, ASE Master with L1 and currently work at a Volvo dealership in the Parts department. Would you like me to tell you both or specifically 850 Turbo things :]

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:21

Both would be nice, just that way if I end up getting it I know what I could look out for as a possible issue. The one I looked at looked to be in good condition and was from Arizona or something like that.

scoob > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:21

Ooh, ooh! I have a question!

How do cars work?

Kidding; I really wish there was a sub-blog with posts that explained how cars worked and even suggested it during the whole sub-blog suggestion thing, but I guess most Opponauts are already car wizards.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:24

please help me! Just found on craigslist and you have no idea how badly I want it! Terrible idea?

http://sarasota.craigslist.org/cto/4571615690…

sellphones2493 > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:26

My '07 S60 R has spent too much time battling DC Potholes. I'm at 75K and need a full suspension makeover. How much am I looking at for a good job?

EL_ULY > scoob
07/21/2014 at 22:27

Well sir, I don't k now everything but my credentials are, 3 years working at a gas station service center, 2 years at a muscle cars restoration shop, Lexus Master tech 2006-2010, ASE Master with L1, Volvo Master tech 2011-2013, front end specialist Volvo, Lotus, Aston Martin, and Mercedes. i've owned 7 Germann cars (4 BMW, 2 Merc, 1 Audi). Dude if any have any question, use the signal

EL_ULY > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
07/21/2014 at 22:34

ah yes, The Volvo/Mitsubishi/Proton. Those are pretty cars huh. Those early C70's were nice. Mostly a Mitsubishi, they did suffer some incredibly difficult (and this is me talking) roof mechanisim and window regulator issues. I usually tdo not complain about working on cars, but calibration of the roof and the WINDOW REGULATOR are a freaking nightmare. A/C issues are super common on these mostly with servo motors. As for the engine a solid Volvo unit with the common Volvo this to really pay attention to at all times. Mounts, timing belt with temperature sensitive tensioner, and that oh so infamous Oil Trap. Not too much of a biggie doing the maintenance at home I think, that one in particular is very high mileage. If the roof and windows work and the timing belt/ oil trap has been done, dude go for it at that price heck yeah! I personally would look for a coupe or a convertible with less miles

PatBateman > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:34

Fastest Volvo currently for sale (new), 0-60 time, price.

scoob > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:35

That's quite a background! And yes sir, I will!

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:38

thanks! I love C70s, almost got one as a first car, looked at a ton!!!

This one is nice just from the price, ive never seen one this cheap. Owner sent me video of the top going up and down no problem so that was good.

And I never knew they were mostly a Mitsubishi, ever. Ac still works though!

Its worth a look I think!

EL_ULY > sellphones2493
07/21/2014 at 22:40

i'm not at my work computer but these are the thing I think you are going to need these common S60R items. (without labor at dealer cost)

*Front Four-C shocks (GET AT DEALER because they are VIN specific) They seriously have 5 different shock that go on S60R's and aftermarket might not be the exact type.

-$880 a piece (need to replace front in pairs)

*Rear Four-C shocks (same DEALER ONLY ITEM)

-$650 ish a piece, replace in pairs

*Front lower control arm bushings with bolt kit

-$200 each side

* Front Spring Seats (super common repair)

-$80 each side

After that, asses your tire situation and the car will need an alignment is replacing any of those components. You'll save if you do all repairs at once so you don't have to keep paying for alignments

EL_ULY > PatBateman
07/21/2014 at 22:43

S60 Polestar which Volvo is still taking orders in the US (Momentum on 59 south only) $60K ish 0-60 4.5 seconds. Not that much HP but the chassis is fantastic and puts it all down very well.

We'll still wait for what they will do with the new S90 and fingers still crossed on the Volvo T8-R

PatBateman > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:45

Your knowledge of Swedish cars is unrivaled, my good sir.

EL_ULY > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
07/21/2014 at 22:46

Heck yeah dude that is a NP for sure!!! Be sure to ask about the oil trap and timing belt. Take a look at the CV axel boots. Test drive it.

If you have questions txt me at Eight 32 Seven 5 too - nein Juan nein nein!

For Sweden > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:46

Why haven't you joined the S80 Master Race?

EL_ULY > PatBateman
07/21/2014 at 22:47

your knowledge on being a badass Texan is unrivaled. I'm selling my 4x4 truck soon. Along with it, my Texan card :'(

EL_ULY > For Sweden
07/21/2014 at 22:49

we have an 09 3.2 on the lot. I'm going to ask what we paid for it tomorrow. If all good, bye stupid grandma A6 wagon, hello beast S80!

PatBateman > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:49

Nonsense! Just remember:

I don't wear no Stetson, but I'm willing to bet some that I'm a big a Texan as you are.

-Robert Earl Keen

I Do It For Miatas, NC Owner > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:50

What's your opinion on 960s? And what are problem areas for them? I love mine so far, but it has 220,000 miles so I just want to be prepared!

For Sweden > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:50

one of us one of us

EL_ULY > PatBateman
07/21/2014 at 22:52

THAT'S RIGHT!!!! \m/ I'm like 5th or 6th generation Texan... well, way back then it was Tejas de Coahuila, but still! lol :]

Sn210 > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:52

Someday, I want an S80 with the V8 so i can put straight pipes on it like the video on the FP a while back. Is it a matter of cutting and fitting a new exhaust, or will I have to worry about sensors and shit?

http://jalopnik.com/even-a-volvo-s…

EL_ULY > For Sweden
07/21/2014 at 22:53

gooble gobble sir.... gooble fucking gobble!

PatBateman > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:53

Still applies. I'm a 7th generation myself.

PS9 > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 22:55

This is more about you than Volvo; what did you do to become a master tech?

EL_ULY > I Do It For Miatas, NC Owner
07/21/2014 at 22:59

I LOVE 960/S90!!!!!!!!!

That freaking Aisin transmission was also in my e34 525i. i went 412k on my bimmer before the engine went out but the trans was perfect. Last year we had a guy come in with his 960 well over 300K on the original trans and motor. Nothing volvo specific here buddy beside keeping an eye on the oil trap making sure it keep negative bar pressure in the crankcase. Old Volvo oil traps lasted over 100K miles not like the goofy 99-2008 era. Just keep and eye on the commons stuff when dealing with the motor. Don't skip the timing belt for too long. Keep an eye on all the rubber boots on the intake manifold. They will start cracking and your going to have a bad time. Service the throttle body every 50K or so. Keep an eye on the control arms and your shocks. Heavy cars and bad roads take their toll on those tanks. COOLING SYSTEM, please take care of all components of the cooling system. Regular car maintenance but those 960/S90's will keep chugging if you take care of them. I've seen this way too many times, awesome car!

EL_ULY > Sn210
07/21/2014 at 23:00

Yeah, I showed my boss this last week. It sound like a angry T-Rex!!!

ShelbyRacer78-Fusion Modifier > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 23:01

Kinja'd!!!

Something's missing......

I Do It For Miatas, NC Owner > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 23:03

Awesome thank you so much!!! And the transmission is incredible in this car! Also: what's your opinion on the Ford era cars? It seems like Ford ran Volvo into the ground :(

EL_ULY > PatBateman
07/21/2014 at 23:03

ssweeet! My dad's side can be traced waaay back to mostly the Corpus Christi area yeeears ago til either going to deep Mexico or along the border being born on either side within the families. My eldest was my great geat grandma born in Harlingen in 1903

EL_ULY > PS9
07/21/2014 at 23:15

To become a Lexus Master tech, we had to have our ASE's. I didn't have any before hand. I studied at the library and stuff because it deals with a lot of old school stuff. The difficult thing about ASE's not the knowledge but the battle with the questions. The Tech A. Tech B. style questions and the "All are correct except___" ASE's are a difficult style of testing compared to a standard ABCor D. The way the questions are worded are key. You really have to concentrate with the words "All, sometimes, always, never". ASE questions are primarily set up to trick you.

Ex. Tech A. says, "An airbag can sometimes be activated if not plugged in to the vehicle" Tech B. says, " An airbag can be activated with the Key on of off."Who is correct

A. A only

B. B Only

C. A and B

D. none are correct

The Lexus dealer paid to go takes the tests. Once I left there, I never really needed them to get certified with the other brands. Volvo doesn;t need you to be master to become Volvo Master. I took them all in one year. I think next year is my last year as Master tech before they all expire lol.

EL_ULY > ShelbyRacer78-Fusion Modifier
07/21/2014 at 23:15

the rotary power!!!

RMudkips > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 23:15

Is a post 960 estate a good idea for a first car?

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 23:19

Where'd you go I need my info on Volvo 850's?!?!!

EL_ULY > I Do It For Miatas, NC Owner
07/21/2014 at 23:20

Not at all. Ford did a good job with Volvo. My dealer is also Aston Martin. Ford Europe is very good and Ford were at the end the ones that benefited from what they leaned from Aston, Jag, Volvo, and LR. They took that R&D and stayed out of bankruptcy and are making good nice looking turbo charged cars (hint hint wink wink). The trans issues was the real only shadow in the line up but that was GM's crappy trans and Volvo's fault for thinking a cheapo Buick Century trans would work on a twin turbo I-6 AWD XC90.

EL_ULY > norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback
07/21/2014 at 23:20

crap i'm sorry I got bombarded :] one sec buddy

EL_ULY > norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback
07/21/2014 at 23:39

For a 850 Turbo, we'll start with the common things like just looking it over for common cosmetic things like the headliner, the black plastic coating on the belt trims, ALL weather seals around the door, and the paint condition. The glue that Volvo used on the door cards was not too good. The trim on the doors especially are a weak point and the after market is your only real place to find replacements because Volvo has pretty much discontinued a lot of trim items for these cars.

The radios are also modules. The 850 has to rely on ALL modules or it will have a permanent fault that is tied to the network and will prevent somethings to not real under the VIDA (Volvo scan tool). Also, if you need a spare key, you will not be abel to program one with an aftermarket or missing radio. I've seen a couple CCM (climate control modules) go out but it's not entirely common.

Test drive the cars. Feel how it accelerates and and bumps through the revs.

Shocks are very VIN specific. There are about 8 different shock that 850's take and you cannot completely go with what ever aftermarket ones fit. On 850's, the is a set of numbers near the VIN plate that specifies which shock go on that car. The common failures are the Spring seats and the lower control arm bushings. I either is replaced, you will have to perform an alignment.

Now that awesome motor. Fist and foremost, the most important maintenance item on this car's motor is the Oil Trap. The oil trap is an emission device yes, but it is a key item for the motor because that engine is a negaive crankcase motor. The crankcase needs to always be at a negative pressure. Once the oil trap gets cloggs, the engine will reach zero pressure. If still not cleaned or replaced, the crankcase will go into a positive pressure causing all engine seals to leak.

Next most important item is the timing belt. 100K/or Ten years. The timing belt is also VIN specific due to a break in engine codes. The tensioner is the key item because it has to be set at ambient temperature specific. Slapping a timing belt and not properly setting the temp sensitive tensioner will cause many problems.

Besides that, take a good look underneath for the CV axel boots, and any visible leaks.

Cooling system is important so ask questions about all cooling system components.

Like I said earlier. Most are everyday car issues but these are more 850 Turbo common things. Again, You may not see most of these thing or you might. Let me know if you have any questions once you go check one out. You have this signal to reach me..

EL_ULY > RMudkips
07/21/2014 at 23:41

V70's If they are relatively low mileage and newer as far as years are concern sure. Solid vehicles that are comfy, responsive and a missed era in Volvo. Is there one you were looking at?

I Do It For Miatas, NC Owner > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 23:47

Ahhh thats a good point! Thanks for everything!

DanZman > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 23:49

My 1990 Volvo 240DL wagon has started spewing oil from the front on the engine. I've started taking it apart, and I think the leak if coming from the crank seal. There is also a minor leak in the valve cover gasket. I will be replacing the timing belt and all of the front engine seals(crank, cam, intermediate), Is there anything else that you would recommend that I do while Im in there or close by? The car has 207k mi on it and I have owned it for the last 12k mi. Also, is there a trick to loosening the timing belt? The tensioner is spring loaded and I didnt readily see a way to release the tension.

one more thing, how do you feel about the XC90 with the V8? reliablility? MPG? worth it over the I6? its an I6 right?

Thank You for any help!

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > EL_ULY
07/21/2014 at 23:50

How about the 240 with a 5 spd? Is that a good one? I assume most of the same normal things?

EL_ULY > norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback
07/22/2014 at 00:05

pretty much but take it from some 240 guys here, you'll be a certified mechanic after owning a 240 in a couple years. The community is huge for those awesome machines. Expert advice i really do not have per say. Roflcopter is your guy for 240 questions.

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 00:09

Yeah, just found one for $2,000. But bad news, I don't know how to drive a manual. I know blasphemy. Don't blame me though, blame all around me for not having a manual to teach me. Please drivers ed have a manual.

EL_ULY > DanZman
07/22/2014 at 00:11

i'll stary with the XC90. The benefit of the V8 is not completly worrying about the common issues of the 5 cyl Turbo and the 6 twin turbo. Tha bad thing is parts for the V8 are not cheap and are teicky to work on. A solid unit but not cheap to maintain. For XC90, i'd go with the 3.2 Inline 6 made from 07 and up. As for the 240, im not a super expert on those. A timing belt with the front seals is the best way to handle that situation. Oil pumps are not really failure prone. If the water pump has no been changed,i'd recommended it while you are there.

DanZman > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 00:14

Thanks for the reply. Its great to know that we have such a valuable resource here!

EL_ULY > DanZman
07/22/2014 at 00:15

yeah dude, if you need parts break down images or anymore help. I can email all that stuff to you from work

EL_ULY > norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback
07/22/2014 at 00:18

its ok buddy. Its way simpler that most make it out to be and fun. An older 240 is just key to get in manual

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 00:20

My grandfather wants a Mustang with a stick, I don't know why he just won't get it. I'd honestly prefer to learn before I got a manual car so I don't destroy my car before I really get to have a chance to enjoy it for what it really is. I might attempt to buy it regardless and have my grandfather or dad drive it home.

EL_ULY > norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback
07/22/2014 at 00:29

you can. I bought a 95 M3 and i had to learn on the spot lol. It is not too bad.

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 00:38

I'm sure, I kind of have an idea on how to do it but as I've no experience I don't know how well that will work. Every year I go to the Chevy Court at the NYS Fair and EVERY car is base with a 5-6 speed and I literally sit there and pretend to be carving a country road apart. So I think I've got a good idea. My only fear is to be attempting to go into first and hit reverse and something very bad happen.

DanZman > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 00:42

that would be amazing. how do i give you my email?

rad_mike > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 00:50

Awesome post, EL_ULY.

On the spring seats, he could use XC90 seats and it becomes a little less common of a repair. Mas beefy.

EL_ULY > rad_mike
07/22/2014 at 01:20

same part number actually lol. Ends in 3637 :]

EL_ULY > DanZman
07/22/2014 at 01:21

ulysses@starmotorcars.com

EL_ULY > norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback
07/22/2014 at 01:22

yeah that could be scary. Down shifting and hill starts.

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 01:40

Hill starts would be daily as my whole town is basically a hill and there's stop lights on said hill.

EL_ULY > norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback
07/22/2014 at 01:43

oh dang. Clutches and park brakes must sell good there

norskracer98-ExploringTheOutback > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 01:44

I bet, I don't know how much of the town is still rowing their own but damn being a clutch sales person in the 60's must have been a prime job. Quick build a time machine I know how to make a ton of money!

boxrocket > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 02:27

Best/easiest automatic transmission swap for a Redblock? Mine's a 1990 765 Turbo, and I need more mpgs. 4 gears is not enough!

NotUnlessRoundIsFunny > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 03:27

This. Is. Awesome.

All the cookies for you.

sellphones2493 > rad_mike
07/22/2014 at 06:35

The spring seats were replaced a year ago and they're all good!

sellphones2493 > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 06:36

Thanks for the post. This makes me question whether I do the repair or just trade it in it at 100k!

EL_ULY > sellphones2493
07/22/2014 at 09:13

Gotta pay to play with an awesome car like that. Ask any E46 M3, S4, or C55 owner

sellphones2493 > EL_ULY
07/22/2014 at 10:05

Yeah I'm well aware and I'm usually ok with it. Everything ultimately depends whether I want to stay in Baltimore (where I can own a stick) or move to the DC Area (where I'd need an auto because DC Traffic).

Thanks though. Much appreciated