Volvo 850 Wagons

srfrgirl · March 2002

Thanks javadoc.
Yep, we passed on it. The mechanic thought the valves were ok and that it was more the rings, so we passed.

It had 73k mi on it and was otherwise beautiful. Yes, pleny of other cars out there, just not that many me and my sweetie seem to agree on!

mikenk · March 2002

Last year I sold my '94 850 turbowagon at 80K miles. My wife and I really liked the car and had planned on keeping it well past 100k miles. However, as it got older more things kept breaking; nothing really major, but expensive and time consuming. I consulted with a well respected local volvo repair shop as to what should be expected for the next 30K miles. His matter of fact response was rather sobering: rear main seal, evaporator unit, major transmission repairs, and a few more I have forgotten. The cost of these things were thousands.

I think he was saying that you buy Volvo because of the name, safety, and maybe engine durability, but not for low cost of ownership. Personally, I want to feel unlucky if I have car repairs, not lucky if I don't. I have been spoiled for too many years by toyota, Honda, and Subaru.

just my opinion,
Mike

javadoc · March 2002

I stumbled across this '95 855 Turbo. If you're still shopping for one, this is what you want to look for. The guy religiously maintains his car. Price isn't horrible either... if you live in PA, and '95 through '97 models are the ones to want, imho.

/j

patty6418 · March 2002

After searching for about 3 months, we purchased a '97 850 GLT Wagon from an Acura dealer in Brighton, Ma. I obtained the name of the previous owner who informed me of a problem with the keyless entry. Sounds minor, but it was a chronic problem which prevented the car starting on more than one occasion. The problem, apparently, was never solved. Right before they traded it in, they had a problem with the back-up lights, also. The dealer I bought from claims this was rectified. (I guess I'll know for sure when I take delivery in two days!) I would like to know if anyone has experienced these types of problems and knows the correct fix. The previous owners live in Wellseley, Ma. and say their Volvo dealer was HORRIBLE. They never even got close to solving the problems. Does any of this sound familiar to anyone?? Thanks in advance for the help!

patty6418 · March 2002

Is is possible to put system with a CD player in a '97 850 Wagon without a major adaptation???
Thanks!

revka · March 2002

while you're waiting here for more feedback, you may want to check in Edmunds' Maintenance Guide for any TSBs (technical service bulletines) that may be related to your car's starting problem. This guide will only give you an abbreviated description; however, you can get a full service report from nhtsa or alldata.com. Read this article for more details.

Btw, we also have a Volvo Owner's Club here that you may be interested in. Look for a direct link in our Helpful Links on the left side of the page. Also, if you have a chance to stop by there, please take a moment to say hello in our Volvo Owners - Meet the Member's discussion. Good luck and please keep us posted on your Volvo 850 experience.

Revka
Host
Hatchbacks & Station Wagons Boards

javadoc · March 2002

Yes, you can easily put a receiver with a cd player into your 855 (850 Wagon), especially if you wanted to stay with a factory unit. You'd want to look for either model SC-815 or SC-816, and these two units slide into place where your radio is now, and just plug in. It takes about 1min to do. These are the "Premium" units, and have am/fm, CD and tape players in them. I'd suggest keeping an eye open over on ebay for these two units. Also, they have CD changer controls built-in for a factory (or Alpine) 6disk changer. Plan on spending around $300 though, but it's factory and they sound great, imho.

You can get a listing of what Volvo recommends for service intervals on your car at any Volvo dealership, basically you'd get a single sheet of paper with a chart on it. I have a copy for '96/'97 cars if you come up short, and can post the link. Primarily, you'll want to make sure the timing belt was changed, if you have over 70k miles, if your car's past that point. If there's no proof (dealerships put a sticker on the ECU box, passenger side of engine compartment, behind the headlight) that it's been done, you'll need to have that done right away. Breaking the timing belt is bad, so changing it is of prime importance, and costs around $350.

Re: the issues you stated... reprogramming remotes is easy, if that's the issue, and something the owner can do themselves usually.

Some 850s have had issues w/ the a/c evaporators, but that is mainly a problem w/ cars prior to '97. Mine leaked and I fixed it w/a $40 a/c sealant/recharge kit. There are a few smaller issues like the PNP switch (shift interlock switch) needing replacement. The rotors can warp if someone over-tightens the lugnuts (ie: tire shops w/air wrenches), but that's not just a Volvo thing. Be mindful to flush, not just change, the tranny fluid every othere year, regardless of what the maintenance guides say, using good synthetic tranny fluid. It's cheap insurance.

Oh.. Welcome to Volvo ownership! :-)

/javadoc

FREDERICK · March 2002

Sorry I missed that opportunity. I've learned a lot and enjoyed reading the many different comments on Edmunds over the years. I was a regular at Brickboard for many months before choosing our Volvo. My wife and I bought a three year old used 96, 855 base w/ auto ~38K miles on it from a So. Cal. Volvo Dealership back in 99. I shopped about 8 - 10 different So. Cal dealerships looking for the exact car I wanted.

We both really like this car. I like the firm secure handling, my wife likes the "pleblian" security of the whole package. We load the stuff up and just hit the road, the car works very well in total utilitarian way. We did not go for the turbo and it honestly has not bothered either of us one bit. Not that I wouldn't totally enjoy that sick Pale Yellow 855 R that was on all the bilboards at the 855's debute but we didn't need it and at that time $'s were tight for us.

My own car, a 1982 Lincoln Mark VI, is begining to aile and my wife was thinking that since we're now looking to buy a home/condo in the near down town S.F. area she could get a new smaller car and give me the Volvo. I use the wagon's cargo capacity much more often than she does and that is why I insisted on a wagon from the get go.

We're specifically looking for a home with a garage for the Volvo, if you're unfamiliar w/ the SF realestate market a garage is a bit of a luxury around here. A very smal, safe, compact car would be just the ticket. I'm seriously hoping a new Mini is in our future. The Volvo S40 is probably not small enough for 9 out of ten open street parking spots in S.F. I came to really appreciate the concept of the Mini when I traveled to Paris a couple of summers ago.

That'd be two enjoyable, safe, and fun cars to drive and own in SF. We'd park the Mini on the street and keep the Volvo in the garage for the quick weekend getaways from it all. The Volvo could also make the numerous trips to Home Depot that we'll inevitably need to make for the total fixer-upper that is all we're gonna be able to afford in the S.F. housing market.

Peace,

F-

revka · March 2002

This discussion is now linked to our Volvo Owner's Club! Look for a direct link at the top of the page. While you're there, please take a moment to say hello in our Volvo Owner's: Meet the Members discussion. Thanks for your participation.

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patty6418 · March 2002

Thanks for the info - everything you talked about is exactly what I've been reading for the last couple of days. Car is going in to be checked out Thursday. I'm going to do EXACTLY as you suggested and have the tranny fluid flushed and possibly do the timing belt now (I'm at 59,000 miles). Thanks again for the help.

isaacl · May 2002

Ok, I won the fight with my wife about NOT getting an SUV but we are gonna need third row seating. What does the third seat in the Volvo station wagon handle? Kids up to age 10???? (2) car seats side by side for toddlers???? I'm talking a used 850 here like post 1995 or so. We decided Volvo but can't afford brand new. Also, minivan out of question as we are only mid-20's.
Thanks all my fellow car enthusiasts!!!!!

gangelt · May 2002

Sorry I don't know about the 3rd seat, but our 95 850 wagon has 95,000 trouble free miles. It's been a great car for two kids but I doubt it's much good for more. If you had to always use the 3rd seat not much else would fit in the car.

Post 95 only leaves the 96 model year 850.

20 somthing is not two young for a mini van if that's what you really need.

me_227 · May 2002

I've wanted a Volvo for a long time, but other than general "safety/reputation" knowledge, I know very little about them!
A Mercedes dealership in town has a 1997 850 GLT Wagon for sale. It has around 68,000 miles and they are asking $14995.
Any advice? What should I ask the salespeople? There isn't a Volvo dealership around here for 60 miles...how difficult is it to find a good mechanic?
Thanks!

FREDERICK · June 2002

You may have not had time to read back much through the messages. Mostly it seems to have been pre-95's that I've read about.

Most problems I've read about have mostly been on the earlier turbo versions with things like: early transmission failure, electrical problems with either electrical drain that kills the battery or frequent headlight burn out.

We have a base/non-GLT 96 and haven't had any of this strange stuff happen to our car. The brakes are alarmingly firm and although I appreciate the stopping ablility the brake pads were replaced when we bought the car @ 3 years old and then 3+ years later we were once again replacing pads and rotors.

I will not comment specifically upon the pricing for your car because there are too many variables that you have not described, i.e. various upgrades and accessories that your car may or may not have.

Not having a dealership around is gonna hamper you maybe. Every time we've ever gone to get our Volvo serviced at the dealerships we've been given the use of a loaner car at no additional cost, even when it's only been a day of simple maintenance. Mind you though, Volvos are not cheap and don't believe you're just gonna fork out $15K for some car that you can beat into the ground.

We like our car, it fits our needs, it's not above our budget, and we enjoy driving it. It's the best handeling firmest wagon I've ever driven or ridden in even when loaded to the gills.

Best Wishes,

Frederick.

kidder1 · July 2002

I have had a '95 Turbo Wagon for two years now and the experience has been quite mixed. I love how the car drives and accelerates, however, it has some real reliability issues.

As a handling car, it is alright. My '99 VW Passat will out handle it on anything but a straight line. The 850 is heavy and it shows.

The car currently has 80,000 on it and the repairs from 50-75,000 were quite expensive including:

1. Turbo ($1500)
2. Speedometer and Odometer checked out. (Warranty)
3. Main seal ($600)
4. Cam Seals ($500)
5. Trunk latch ($200)
6. Thermostat ($380)
7. Ignition Switch ($300)
8. Rear Shock Mount ($34 plus my labor)
9. Front and Rear Rotors and Pads ($200 plus my labor)
10. O2 Sensors ($400)
11. Four Goodyear Eagle RS Tires ($500)

The car's "Check Engine" light cry's wolf if any abnormality is sensed. I've had the car scanned at least 6 times and no error was found. This can be very frustrating.

The car is not as stiff as many believe. It has a good amount of flex and the dash creaks pretty good. Also, I've seen people on this board mention that the brakes on an 850 are "awesome". In my opinion, they're marginal at best compared to other Europeans. My brother's 328i and my 99 Passat are in another league compared to my 850 and I upgraded my rotors and pads with stock-sized Brembos.

The paint quality of the car is OK. Below standards for other Europeans as far as I'm concerned. The matte black trim has really faded and the front air dam is very low causing it to hit under many conditions.

The car hums on the freeway great. It has awesome cruise control only bettered by BMW in my opinion. The seats are awesome and everything has a real "tonka", over-engineered feel to it. My only gripe about the interior is the placement of the cup-holders above the power lock and window switches. Its a disaster waiting to happen.

I'm heading to Road America this weekend for the vintage races. I'm taking the Volvo and running in the road tour. I'm also sleeping in it at night at the campground. It really is a great all-around car and much better choice than an SUV or mini-bucket.

splitwindow · July 2002

115,000 miles. Have had the evaporator,the motor mounts, and rotors replaced. Yes, was somewhat expensive but it has been a solid highway commuting car through very heavy traffic and some rough roads. Have a simple problem that someone might be able to solve...inexpensively? The left rear rim is slightly bent. I can usually keep it in balance. Would like to find a good replacement rim. Dealer wants almost $300 for a new one. Any suggestions?

lancerfixer · July 2002

I'd check some of the wheel refinishers out there, like http://www.aaarims.com

850_in_ga · August 2002

I am a fairly new owner of an 850 wagon. I am not happy with the ride comfort and would like to know if anyone knows if anything can be done to improve the ride?

revka · August 2002

Can you explain what it is about the suspension that you don't like? Is the ride too firm? If so, you may want to check the tires to make sure they're not over inflated. Others passing through here will be more likely to offer feedback with more details.... Okay?

Revka
Host
Hatchbacks & Wagons Boards

javadoc · August 2002

Revka's right, can you drop some more info? Is your 855 a turbo, an 'R model? What wheel/tire package does it have? You could have 15, 16 or 17 inch rims on the car, which would make a world of difference on the ride. Does your wagon have the auto-leveling suspension?

thx,

java

cap99 · August 2002

I have lost the little black clips from the inside back hatch that keep the black plastic horizontal piece atached to the rear hatch (It is the cover for the rear lights, etc. midway up the back hatch). Without them the plastic piece vibrates and makes an awful noise everytime you shut the back hatch. The Volvo dealership said they only sell a kit to replace these that costs over $100. Does anyone know where I can get these 5 or so little plastic black clips?

javadoc · August 2002

Well, I've had good luck at the following vendors in obtaining odd parts:

Borton Volvo - Great service. Email them w/Qs.

Erie Volvo - Good recycler, great guys. Cheap parts.

Volvo World - they're not cheap tho

Hope that helps out.

/j

FREDERICK · September 2002

I know well of the problem of which you speak. This is a common problem with the 850 wagons. Mine came loose but I only lost one of them. $100 seems rediculous for a bunch of plastic so please anyone who's solved this problem help the rest of us out.

Peace,

F.

850_in_ga · September 2002

I have an 850 turbo wagon with the 16 inch alloy rims. My complaint is the ride is too firm and bumpy. The tire pressure is to the manufacturers spec for the vehicle.

I do not know if it has the auto leveling suspension. How would I determine that information?

musicalmum · September 2002

Anyone have any experience with using 3 car seats in a V70 or 850?? We are considering looking for a 1997 or 1998 to replace our 1989 740, and will need to use 3 car seats soon (#3 due in 4 weeks). I checked our car and 3 car seats seemed to fit ok. Wondered if either of the models we were considering would also work. Also wondered if any experienced parents had any general words of advice on fitting 3 kids into a wagon. Should we just bite the bullet and get an SUV? We really like wagons, though. Budget restraints limit us to a Volvo at least 4 or 5 years old. Any comments welcome. Thanks.
kathy

FREDERICK · September 2002

Skip the SUV and no I do not have kids. Honestly, go out and drive a few.

Best of Luck,

F.

P.S..: Don't know about third seats except that I have the option.

javadoc · September 2002

I've had two car seats in my 850 with my 7yo in between w/o a carseat. That's doable, but I think that 3 carseats would be a squeeze. The 70Series cars would be the same. Having a third row option in the wagon would work well. I agree w/Fredrick: avoid the SUV route. You will have less overall space (seriously), not to mention the multitude of other issues...which are left for another forum.

What about a not-so-expensive minivan? Seating for seven, better fuel economy than an SUV, and cheaper than a new SUV to boot.

lancerfixer · September 2002

I'm not positive on this, but I'm pretty sure the 850 never had auto-levelling suspension as an option like the older 760/940/960 series did. I'd say you can do two things to modify your ride: get a set of 15" alloys from the non-turbo 850 (yes, they'll fit just fine) or find a set of softer springs and shocks. Either way, you're looking at a few hundred dollars; you'll also be compromising the handling of the car.

Good luck.

re: Seating.

I think I must disagree with my esteemed fellow Volvophile Javadoc in regards to the third seat issue. I'm not crazy about the idea of putting my kid (or someone else's) in a rear-facing "tail-gunner" seat. I've never liked them, even in Volvos. If I needed third seat capability, I'd look no further than a Honda Odyssey. I will agree with him (and others) about avoiding SUVs, though. Please do so! :-)

javadoc · September 2002

You're right Lancer, the third row isn't great, but an option, imho. However, it doesn't provide stellar protection in a rear-ender type crash, for certain.

Some 850s came with the auto-leveling rear suspension. IIRC, all 850R wagons 'could' have it (as an option I believe), and some of the Turbo/T5 wagons, but not the sedans that I know of. I'll have to do some digging to provide years that it was available.

javadoc · September 2002

Okay, after some research... the 855R cars, aka 850R Wagons, came with the Nivomat automatic load leveling rear suspension, standard equipment. Possibly, but I'm not sure, the Platinum version did as well.

Lancer's correct that a way to improve ride is to go to 15" rims. I noticed that the ride improved on my T5 sedan when I replaced the OEM shocks to Bilsteins, although they're much firmer. Also, you can check your control arm bushings. Depending on mileage, they could be worn, and this will contribute to a harsh ride.

What size tires do you have on the car? If you have 205/55-R16 tires, then it will ride a bit better than 205/50-R16, but they'll rub slightly on full lock... this only if you have a Turbo. If you have an R, you should have 17" rims, and switching just to 16" rims will improve your ride. Hmmm, I know where you could get 16" rims.

FREDERICK · September 2002

Javadoc or others-

I finally need a new set. We've got Michilins on the wagon now and they seem pretty deccent. This is not a race car and we don't drive in snow or a lot of wet weather. Just get more of the same or do any of U have a different idea and why?

Peace,

F.

FREDERICK · September 2002

I like a firm ride BTW- I want the car to handle well when it's fully loaded.

lancerfixer · September 2002

...but I've heard good things about the Bridgestone RE950.

javven · September 2002

I'm sure everyone here has had the precise problems they indicate.

However... market research has shown that if someone has a BAD experience with a product, they will tell 20+ people, vs the ones who have a good experience telling 1.5 or so.

This was done before the power of the internet made telling 100,000 people so simple.

Thanks for the listen.

FREDERICK · September 2002

This is an interesting choice only becuase it is Japanese and they have a direct connection to to Firestone, infact they are the same comapany. All this time I thought I was driving on Michelins but they were Firestone Firehawks.................oh K thank U Jesus.

I'm just kidding but I will consider the Bridgestone choice. My wife is a fanatic about tires now so she'll have her own oppinion. And no....we never owned or drove an Explorer. My wife did a project of the whole mess and came away knowing more than anyone would ever want to know about tires. I however being the man of the house would never confir to her supperior mechanical and technical knowledge on such an issue.............so I have to ask all of U first. LOL-

Peace,

F.

lingon · September 2002

So here's the dilemma. I have $10k to spend on a mid-90s wagon, and I want the 850. I've been focusing my efforts on the 850GLT, and found one. It's a one-owner '95 GLT model with 88k miles, is immaculate, and the service records bear out that it's been babied for 7 years, at the dealer. It has about 80% left on the tires, new timing belt and brakes, and everything seems to be in order. They won't budge below $9800.

I also just found a '94 Turbo with 88k, from a second owner who has no records. This one, also with new tires and very clean, has some perks the other doesn't--top-of-line trim package, CD changer in the trunk, hands-free phone set, and drives like a bat out of hell. It has some minor damage to the front spoiler and some door dings. The owner says it was the 'sport package' for '94, but I can't find any documentation that says there even *was* a sport package. (?) He's asking $9500, and I suspect will go to $9k or just below.

My dilemma is that I've heard so many times to NOT BUY A TURBO. Everyone keeps warning me about the woeful horror of the turbo, but I have to say, it is extremely fun to drive. I'd certainly like any knowledge people have on turbo vs. non-turbo, and '94 vs. '95. Also, I've heard that the '94s had flakey electrical systems. I ran a Recall check on Edmunds, and there's a list a mile long for the '94, but virtually nothing for the '95. Any input anyone? Help!

jrosasmc · September 2002

Definitely avoid the Turbo models at all costs; I mean all of them from the regular to the T-5R. The maintenance costs won't be forgiving to you in the long run. I have a '93 GLT sedan that I just love to drive, but I'm going to attest to the fact that many '93-'95 850s had questionable electrical systems. I know, because I've had a few problems with mine. If you want all-around reliability, definitely try to look for a '96 base model wagon without any frills.

javadoc · September 2002

What is wrong w/ a turbo model? The days of costly turbo repairs is long gone. If a turbo actually fails, you can pick up one from a junkyard for about $100, but I've seen 850 turbos w/250k on the original blower. Trannies and electrics were not as good thru '95, but mostly bulletproof for '96/7. My '96 T5 has been the most reliable car I've ever owned aside from the wife's MPV van... at 80k miles, and I drive it 'spiritedly' to say the least.

Personally, I'd shop for a 96/7 model for reliability-sake, and a turbo model for good power.

FREDERICK · September 2002

Lingon-

I agree with your research on earlier 90's 850 Turbos. In years past I've read much of the same sort of posting you've discovered on the problematic issues with the early 850 turbos but they also seemed to be a general malaise of Volvos built in those years. 96-98's seemed to be the better years from my own research. I bought a base 96' because I'm a simple sorta guy.

These days when I drive freeways it's more for the long haul so the base 850 is good enough for my needs. We've had little problem with the car and we're happy with our purchase. We did however purchase a long-term warranty before the 50K mile mark just in case, $1000 is an extra peace of mind. Transmissions have been a major problem with all of the 850s. $3,000+ is the usual repair cost.

My final comment is that you need to be ready to spend serious $'s for regular and general upkeep of your Volvo. The 850 is not a Swedish version of the old American family beater wagon you remember from your childhood. I of course would take our 850 over any of those pieces of ........ any day.

Peace,

F.

jrosasmc · September 2002

How do you know that it costs $3,000+ just to rebuild or replace a transmission? And are you talking about the automatic versions?

jrosasmc · September 2002

No offense, but where did you get the idea that the early 850s have transmission issues?

FREDERICK · September 2002

J-

My views have been based on a lot of research over time. I am of course talking about automatic 850's. $3K was about what other people were claiming to have paid to repair their autos at around 70-80K miles. Stick versions of the 850 in the United States are nearly as rare as the infamous Dodo bird. Too bad but true.

I found my information on the net similar to Lingon. I read a lot and I of course own one of these cars. The final answer is.... look at posting #1.

I know others here know a heck of a lot more than myself but I will always give a real owners perspective.

jrosasmc · September 2002

Thanks, Frederick. I have to ask, though: Is your '96 850 wagon a 5-speed?

nastiestvolvo · October 2002

It is true.. 1993 volvo 850 had transmission problems. i work at the dealer and volvo did honor the claims on the 850.. it was a recall becuase the sensor in it was bad. I had a 93 850 and got screwed becuase the tranny died after the warentee was done.. But it's not a myth, but fact that the 93 850 had problems. when it came to 94 it was ok...

khoon · February 2003

I have a '95 850 GLT the left front strut mount needs replacement - dealer's asking for $325. Also, the Check Engine light is on and the dealer wants $600 to replace 2 oxygen sensors.

Has anyone had similar issues with their Volvos? Also, I'd greatly appreciate a Volvo mechanic recommendation in the N. Jersey area.

revka · February 2003

Sorry to hear about your Volvo 850 problems. You may also want to copy/paste your message into our Maintenance & Repair Board, Volvo Problems and/or Volvo Owner's club - Problems & Solutions discussions. Good luck, and please keep us posted on your situation.

Revka
Hatchbacks & Wagons Host

FREDERICK · April 2003

96 850 base w/ auto. No worries man.....75K miles and still quite a ride.

A current niggle: I get a weird pulsing of what seems like the rear brakes maybe a couple of times a month. Since we moved to S.F. and of course we live on a major hill. This always seems to happen when I am coming down this steep hill and I step on the brake. I hear a deep tone hum from the brakes before I stop. The car stops no problem but it seems a little weird. ABS demon at work? Who knows.....I had a complete rotor and pad replacement on the front maybe 12K miles ago.

Any ideas?

U would not believe how many Volvo owners live in this city. Well, maybe U would but it's still cool.

Peace

4kids2 · April 2003

Am currently interested in 960 GLT wagon had 155k asking $6800. Here's my question. What kind of problems am I supposed to be aware off and is it costly to maintain this a type of car? Planning to buy this for my daughter for her graduation present. I've been avoiding this type of vehicle because of the many horror cost of maintenance. Since this is built like a tank which is one of my reason why am interested. Any opinions greatly appreciated.

FREDERICK · April 2003

First off U need to realize that the 960 is a six cyl. rear wheel drive wagon. There is a forum all about them right here for U to read. The car is a tank and from what I have read it drives like one too.

GLT......to my knowledge they never made a turbo version on the 960.......anyway make sure your daughter has a decent income because at 144K miles she will pay Euro prices for any repairs she might incure. Great car.....have a friend with one and no real problems.

later,

revka · April 2003

Here's a direct link to our Volvo 960 discussion.

Also, if you plug your vehicle into Edmunds' Maintenance Guide, you can search for TSB's (technical service bulletins) and Manufacturer suggested maintenance schedules plus costs.... Good luck and please keep us posted on your purchase.

To Frederick- Thanks for your feedback. ;-)

Revka
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Volvo 850 Wagons

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