Blasting through 1000 miles at the one month mark and the infatuation continues. My wife, who loathed driving in the metropolitan NY/CT area, just completed a trip down there and felt quite comfortable with the V70.
Only problem so far was the programming of the HomeLink to take the garage door openning tasks away from my Craftsman remote. The HomeLink was never able to get the door to open, but may have effectively taken over the anti-cloning rolling code -- now the Craftsman remote doesn't work. I inserted new batteries to no avail and the inside-garage open/close switch is now blinking. Is anyone aware of newsgroups or webpages that discuss V70 related problems?
Also, I am looking for recommendations regarding bike racks for the 2001 V70. My Yakima doesn't fit, nor do the Thules. Can anyone recommend the Volvo attachments or good Volvo accessory sites?
I think you will find what you need on the Yakima.com site. The Yakima "Doublecross" clips lock to the Volvo factory rack and carry the round Yakima bar which will most likely accept your current Yakima bike carrier.
I'm still shopping for the new car/SUV...at least I'm having fun driving all the new stuff. Finally got my wife to go along on a test drive. That normally takes an act of the "supreme being" because, for some reason, she absolutely cannot stand car sales people. Stopped by the Porsche/Acura dealer to look at the MDX but they had zero on the lot. So we looked at Porsches...not enough room for my camping gear or mtn bike. So we went down to the Volvo dealer and went out for a spin in a silver T5. "Hmmm, she says, "I like these seats...!!" Now the way I look at it there are two kinds of getting lucky, and I think I just may have hit one of them...
Thanks for the info. I had to actually check where you were located to make sure we weren't talking about the same wife.
Prior to your posting, I submitted the form at Yakima's website which indicated that there was no rack yet available for the V70. However, I'll check out your suggestion. My Yakima rack has had 10 years of extensive use and as I mention that, probably should be retired. I'd prefer to stick with the Yakima racks which provides the versatility to swap to different vehicles.
The shopping was fun, but too time consuming. I'm glad I got it done before the 2002 started coming out. I can enjoy my summer much more now and redirect my research to fast road bikes.
I have been reading this “room” for a few weeks now.
I am interested in getting a T5 in the moonlight blue, with a 5-speed manual and a few creature comforts. So starts our story…
We have visited a couple of dealers and we have been told that less than one percent of the Volvos imported into this country have a manual transmission (stick shift) and that, therefore, we had to settle for an automatic (or a manual with whatever configuration was available, but not one with our specifications), unless we were willing to order one from Sweden and wait at least two months for delivery.
The Volvo dealer also could not tell us how long it would take exactly for the car got unless we placed an order, which I found somewhat outrageous. Also, he told us that it was out of the question to test drive one since nobody orders stick shifts.
Insofar as this is a US$40k car, my question is: is it me or they are nuts that they won’t let us test drive one? We’ve been looking at the competition, obviously and we have test driven all of them (X5, 325xi, Passat GLX, Jeep Grand Cherokee, etc.) without a problem. Volvo doesn’t have a single T5, automatic or standard, to test drive. What kind of a luxury vehicle is this?
The sales people at the couple of dealers we’ve seen, compared to their counterparts at BMW, Mercedes and even Jeep, for example, don’t seem interested in selling their cars at all. They didn’t have a brochure, they didn’t have a car available for us to test drive or even look at. What’s going on?
Does anybody have any advice to give?
I am interested in the T5 because I have been reading raving reviews from both auto magazines and owners and it seems like it would be the ideal car for us, but I want to know what it feels behind the wheel…!
Shchow, I happen to know that Kline Volvo in Maplewood Minnesota has a Black T5 with a 5 speed tranny. It is a demo and you might be able to get a good deal on it. It is a nice car. I don't know if you have a dealer that can get it to your area, but it might be worth a try. Good Luck.
If you have the factory euro rack on your V70, Thule has load bars that fit. If you do not have the euro bars, like my V70, the only option are the Volvo load bars built by Thule for Volvo. They cost $150.00 approx and work very slick. I just bought a pair. I already have a standard Thule rack, but Thule does not yet have a foot to work on the V70 with pre-existing racks. If you are interested the part number is 9204962. This rack goes on and off very quickly and works great. It clips into slots on the roof.
I think if you followed the recently completed "Tour" your research has been conducted and you probably couldn't go wrong with a TREK for a "fast" road bike...although in my experience the bike is only part of the equation. I have a Specialized road bike that I only ride after dark so my friends don't see me on it and thus I do not have to deal with a lot of flak...;-) Out in the hills (the Sierra and adjacent foothills) I ride a Ventana Marble Peak (FS), Ventana is a local Sacramento frame builder. I ride with a mixed crew of mountain bikers (guys/girls - ages from 19 to 61) here in NoCal...some of us even root for the Volvo supported Cannondale Team, though there isn't a Cannondale in the bunch....sorry!!
In regard to racks for the wagon...I used both Thule and Yakima on my old Volvo wagon and I much preferred the Yakima equip over the Thule because it was just a lot more versatile. I hauled stuff on the rack I couldn't get in the car. I think more people have Yakima and that came in handy on several bike trips to Moab (UT) where we were able to swap carriers around in the group to accomodate needs of people going here for biking and there for kayaking or whatever. Bottom line it's a personal choice...get what works for you. The only time I ever took the bars (Yakima) off the car was to swap out carriers.
In regard to Gustav's "quest for fire" a T5 five-speed manual tranny wagon...I'd say go for a factory delivery for that one...
I appreciate the comments on both the Thule and the Yakima. I know both historically have been fine racks and am glad to see that they both are still endorsed. The versatility of my old Yakima is unfortunately the reason that it has disappeared to my sister's Saab. The bike shops that I am visiting tonight sells the Yakima components so I'll check them out.
Don't be ashamed of that Specialized! I chose the Specialized StumpJumper over a comparable TREK seven years ago and still rank it up there with the top ten best decisions that I ever made. I still race it with slicks and aero bars at the Time Trials and beat 30% of the road bikes. Tonight's review should include the TREK, Specialized, Fuji and Bianci.
On a more relevant note, I consider my recent V70 purchase among my other top ten best decisions. Only time will tell where it ends up. It's just a superb all-around sports wagon.
Thanks for your advice. I think that is the best way to go. First, I am going to test drive it somewhere. Minnesotta, however, is a bit far, vonn1. Thank you for the suggestion, though.
After months of shopping, my wife and I finally bought a V70. The closest runner up was the Passat wagon but once you get in and drive these cars, there was no comparison, especially when they cost the same, dollar for dollar, with the accessories we wanted. There were three left in Canada with our option packages so we got our moneys worth when we paid the standard delivery fee as our car had to be re-shipped 500 miles to get to our dealer.
We picked up our Ash Gold V70 last week and were very disappointed in the condition of the car when it was delivered. It had a pen mark on the center armrest, one of the remotes didn't work, the housing around the fog light switch was heavily gouged when they pried out the dummy switch, the roof was covered with grime and needed to be polished and finally, the rear bumper had dimples in it when it was rear ended a few times by another Volvo during transport. Nevertheless, the dealer fixed everything the next day including a brand new bumper that they took off another car. To compensate for the troubles, they're putting in a spoiler for us at cost.
One thing that bugs me about the V70 is the fog light installation. It is my understanding that the holes for the lights have to be cut into the front bumper. I can't criticize the dealer too much for their butcher job as the plastic is pretty thick and I wouldn't have done any better. Has anyone else noticed this on their cars? You'd think that they would design the bumpers with pop out panels.
Last item, has anyone had any luck in getting locks for the temporary load bars. If so, what are the part numbers? I think you need lock retainers in addition to the locks themselves.
I have mentioned in several prior posts my concern about the Pirelli P6s-17" on my 2001 V70 T5. Those concerns were directed at finding a replacement since neither Volvo or Pirelli had any info on them. Each referred me to the other when I asked for more details on them-nobody knew nuttin'. Well, those concerns came home to roost today when my wife informed that, while trying to race another car to a mall parking spot, she ground the left front tire into a curb. Of course, she said everything must be ok because the tire was not flat. While true, the sidewall looked like someone had taken a machete to it. The "jury is still out" on the wheel, but it looks straight and the bead is holding air-so far. I put the damaged tire on the rear for now.
The local Pirelli dealer, after some difficulty, found a replacement at some regional warehouse, at $267 per. The local car dealer mechanics are on strike here in St Louis so there would no help from Volvo.
I think this is a pretty stiff price for a non Z rated tire.
That would be the penalty for having a 17" tire. Tire prices seem to go up geometrically as diameter increases past 16". I think it's silly that some car makers are putting 17s on family cars...Volvo isn't the only guilty party here. The new Nissan Altima will have 17" wheels on its V6 models. Imagine the surrprise of the owner of a 23k dollar car has to sink a grand into tires. I think for most family car applications, 15s and 16s are optimum.
The most irritating thing about Volvo and these P6s is that there are 2 Pirelli performance oriented tires in this size, off the rack. Why did Volvo order a boutique tire like these from Pirelli for the V70 and S60? In fact, when the V70 T5s first appeared late last spring, the 17" wheels came with the Pirelli Sport Veloce. Currently, Tire Rack offers the P6000 Sport Veloce at $117 per, one of the PZero lines, as a Z rated tire, at $181 per.
While I agree with you about the lack of need for 17" wheels, unfortunately my wife branded the 16" wheels, "ugly"--no further discussion on that point.
I'm considering pulling all the P6s off and offer them for sale at a price well under $200. There are only 8k miles on them. However, I'll give them their due-they grip quite well without any harshness, and they perform well in wet weather.
My '98 V70 AWD R had Pilots on them and I was quite satisfied with them.
I only wish they would make a V70T5 AWD until the R wagon comes out...... I guess ill have to wait until Next Fall for my replacement. Love the V70XC I have it in Black and its new as of Jan.... Any ideas on what I can do with my ML430
I'm currently considering first Volvo purchase - a 98 V70R AWD with 85k. Anything to be afraid of or watch out for? Any major maintenance concerns? Your experience or insight is appreciated.
Jon, Why an R AWD? Are you a tinkerer or do you know a really good Vcar tech? Those things are pretty rare. A safe and sane Infiniti it is not. If you decide to go for it one of two things is going to happen...you are either going to hate it or you are going to become a Volvo enthusiast. I would have a really knowledgable Vcar technician survey it thoroughly as a condition of sale...you didn't indicate whether it's from a dealer or private party. A survey can run anywhere from $150-$200 and it's out of your pocket. Another alternative would be to call IPD and see if they would be willing to chat with you about the AWD R. They mfg and distribute lots of performance parts and accessories for Volvo and have been doing so for a long time. www.ipdusa.com
Personally I'd go for it sight unseen...but then I'm on Prozac...
Is it bright red or that metallic persimmon color?
Jesse Ventanabike p.s. had a friend here (he moved to SoCal) who has one, not very stock (IPD and TME parts), and it puts out around 300hp...you ever see a "plain" little wagon smoke all four..?? Whooo Hoooo...!!
Jesse - Thanks for the feedback. Already have the inspection scheduled with Volvo guru. Reason a R AWD? That's what I'm being offered in trade (from dealer)for wife's PT Cruiser. She needs a bigger car (kid #2 coming) and I need a car with an engine!! It's a riot to drive...and if this works out, I hope to become an enthusiast - and not hate it! FYI -it's black.
Hey everyone, Jon's got a new one here we can all use...we can call it the "it's for my wife" excuse, what do you all think?
Yes, it is a lot more car than the P/T Cruiser that's for sure. There is one thing I would do (if it really is [choke, choke...] for your wife and kids...) and that would be to leave it stock under the hood but go with some Bilstein shocks/struts and IPD sway bars to tweak the stock handling. You will be amazed at the difference!! How do the tires look? I like black paint also but it's not a color I really consider for where I live (way too hot here in the Summer for black) and for keeping clean...but you can overcome that part of it...make your wife wash it...!
Take care of the suspension and then you can accessorize it....lots of really good Volvo stuff at www.ipdusa.com (sign up for the catalogs and email notes), also check out www.tme.se (these guys are in Sweden -- IPD is the US rep for TME) and take a look at the performance tables for the Volvo line with various TME bits and pieces installed...zowie...!!
Another thing, I vaguely recall reading somewhere that some "earlier" Volvo models could be retrofitted to the ISO standard for affixing child seats...I may be wrong (my wife tells me that a lot...) but it may be worth checking on...a little extra protection for the kids.
GAWD, "...for the wife...." ROF..!! You'll become the enthusiast with that car...it'll be easy!!
I'm still shopping...I dropped by our nearest dealer the other nite and went for another spin in a new T5. Couldn't get my wife to try it (she's velcro'ed to her Celica GT). This means that whatever I finally decide to get will be MINE!! My friends just don't get it. I tell them I'm looking at wagons and they go "Ewwww, icky, you want a WAGON"? My response is "Don't expect me to haul your bikes and baggage (which includes wives and kids) on our next trip to Moab" and just drop it at that...shuts them up every time. I have enough of my own stuff to haul as it is, anyway....!!
Response to #216...and all others in the Boston area...NEVER EVER go to the scum bag, bottom-dwellers, liar, and money hider-STEALERS at Jaffarian Volvo in Haverhill, Massachusetts!!!!!!! As per usual VCNA did nothing to help my situation from these [non-permissible content removed] holes!Well, I guess that I don't deserve VCNA's help...I've only had THREE VOLVOS..looking for #4!! Maybe Audi wants my $$$$!!!!
I had a '98 AWD R that I turned in at 46m-no major problems. The only recurring problem was the 3 cd cassette player; it was replaced 3 times.Also, there was a front right instrument panel rattle that the dealer could never quite eliminate.
Try to determine if the car came with "sports suspension" option. If so, the ride may be a bit stiff and you may want to look at softer tires.
The performance tires that came on the car do not do well in snow. I put on a set of Blizzaks--what a difference. In fact, I am going to sell them because they will not fit my 2001 V70 T5.
This is my third Volvo with the big turbo, each has been better than the last
I just passed 5 months and 10k miles on my T5. Love it. Completely. Although, I just took it in for some service. I've been hearing a clicking noise from the front end of the car. It happens when the car first starts moving from a stand still (fwd and rev). I might not hear it at high speeds due to other elevated noise volumes. I took the Volvo tech for a ride and he heard it from both sides. Thought it might be loose break pads but it wasn't. The say it is normal CV JOINT noise.
Any thoughts on this? Not that I don't trust them but damn't I love this car, paid alot for it and want it to run like a kitten (rather like a lion).
Could the clicking noise just be part of the ABS test referred to in the manual. The manual says that you may feel some feedback from the ABS system when first starting out from PARK on start-up. I have 1k on my car and I haven't felt this feedback yet.
We leased a 2001 V70 T5 (and love it) with the built-in rear booster seat. Our older daughter is just tall and heavy enough to use it, but just didn't seem secure enough. I happened to check out Volvo's Swedish site and found a great "Comfort Upholstery with Side Bolster and Head Cushion" for the built in booster (about $150) which really works great. I also found some nice little kids' activity bags that strap to the front seat back and can be folded down to make little desks (only $25!), and even can be turned into backpacks. I was able to order both items from Borton Volvo (http://www.borton.com/) who easily found these accessories and had them to me in no time and with an internet order discount! I highly recommend this dealer for parts and accessories.
Is it a constant clicking or a one-time click? I had a similar problem on my s70 that went from a slight click to an eventual clunk. It turned out to be a loose control arm. It would only occur on somewhat quick start-ups and under heavy braking.
This may sound too simple, but check the front tires for a stone wedged into the tread, or, although unlikely, a wheel bearing.
I would not buy the CV joint explanation. I've had many front drivers, including 3 Volvos, but never had "normal clicking." Generally, when you have a CV joint going bad, you will a click or clunk when turning.
We have a 99 V70 GLT. We get a single click from the front end. After backing out of the drive, putting in foward (automatic) the click occurs. Usually at low speed and only once. Dealer says it is normal and is the ABS testing itself. I'll take their word for it. But with all strange noises, it is any change in the noise that concerns me. I'll keep listening.
Has anyone purchased the Volvo hitch for the cross country? We have a 2001 XC and are debating the merits of the hitch due to the price and having to purchase 2 different sizes depending on the trailer used. Are you happy with it? Are there aftermarket versions avialable? We would also consider a used one if available. Thanks
I usually get anywhere from 2 to 5 clicks in a group. Faster if I hit more gas and vice versa. Thanks for the loose control arm hint. I'll look into that.
I'm looking to buy a V70R 98-00. Can anyone give insight into which may have been a better year. In which year of years has anyone experienced any problems and if so of what nature. This is a great car and it has been very hard to find one. If anyone has a link that would be helpful. Thanx, GolfNut
I'd like to do my own oil changes on a 2000 V70, but I haven't been able to find an oil filter wrench that fits the filter. The filter is 3-3/8 inches in diameter (or thereabouts). Any suggestions for where I can purchase a suitable filter wrench?
Any other pointers that I should be aware of for Volvo oil changes?
My husband and I fell in deep like with the V70 but found the best deal on a used T5 so we grabbed it. However, now that the reality is settling in, we're wondering if this was the most practical model to get for our needs. So far I have noticed that the gas consumption isn't the greatest and because of the big tires my turning radius is average. Any advice?
Enjoy it! Assuming it is a 2001 T5, if there is less than 7m miles on it, your mileage will improve. I got only 19-20 on the highway just after delivery, but now, at 8500, I get 24 mpg. The turning radius is my only sustaining criticism of the car (except for the radio controls). The 2001 V70 is one of the best looking wagons ever sold in the US. That is not me saying it, these are people in parking lots and at the car wash.
In T5 form, you have the "go" to go with the "show."
My wife and I are looking at purchasing a used V70 station wagon. We are looking at '98 and '99 versions. We have a few questions? Are there any specific problems that we should know about with this model or with these years? Also, how many miles are too many? A few dealers here in Texas have used '98s with between 50 and 60 thousand miles already, is that too much? Also, we want a third seat since we have 2 childreen (ages 4 and 6), are there any problems with the third seat?
We have a 99 V70 GLT with 42,000 km (about 28,000 miles). This is probably aberage mileage for the year, maybe a little lower. There have been lots of items on in this townhall regarding problems with this model. However, we have not seen many on ours. The infamous headlight burnout (had two replaced under warranty), one signal light, a mass flow meter replaced, the infamous 'engine needs servicing' light usually due to filler cap not tightened. All covered under warranty with no hassles. We have the third seat and have had no problems (safety controversy aside).
Personally, I would probably look for a 99 vs a 98 as 98 was a first year model. However, I have no information stating it was any better or worse than 98. Also, a 99 may have a year or two left on the warranty.
My wife drives the car most of the time and would not give it up for anything. It is a very comfortable and fun car to drive and she is very pleased with it.
Since soliciting is not allowed in our Town Hall discussions, as written in our Member Agreement, I'd like to encourage the two of you to continue your discussion about these "blizzaks for sale" via email. Hope you understand.
I have a friend who owns a repair shop that is calling Volvo to see about buying a oil filter wrench specific to the volvo oil filter cover for my 2001 V70 T5. I'll let you know if one is available. My father in law owned a Euro repair shop and couldn't find one yet.
As for the change, it takes 6 quarts, there is a huge plastic shield that needs to come off. Purchase the aluminum washers ($1 a piece) from the dealer to replace each time you change the oil. They go on the drain plug. I would replace them since the aluminum metal is malleable and to ensure a proper fit when you put the drain plug back on, a fresh washer will conform properly. I priced the filter inserts on the internet and in three different states. I found that there was no significant price diff from buying a case from my local dealer. So save yourself the time and just buy a case at the dealer.
When putting the oil filter back on, hand tighten and use your fingers to feel the gap between the plastic sleeve and the mount. Keep tightening by hand until you feel no or a very little gap between the filter sleeve and the engine mount. Don't over tighten.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Take pride in changing your oil. It has made me bond with my most beautifully powerful V70 T5.
CONGRATS on the new baby!! I don't know what it is about some cars but Volvo wagons just grow on you. I purchased my 1971 145S on an overseas delivery on the way home from Vietnam, sight unseen, and sold it in December 1999 for $500, and it only had 302K miles on an original engine (never had the head off)...man, what a vehicle...I am still kicking myself for selling it. Well the upside is that I have $500 in the bank...heck that might even be close to .0125% the cost of a new one!!
Me? I'm still shopping...still leaning toward the T5, but have some other vehicles to drive first...maybe that is the issue, I just like to test drive cars...the heck with buying...!
New thread: OIL FILTER WRENCH, I keep telling everyone on these Volvo forums that you have to check out the IPDUSA.com homepage...tools, accessories, suspension and speed parts for VOLVOS. The last flyer I got from them covers filter wrenches. The first thing I will do with my next Volvo will be to add the IPD sway bars and Bilstein shocks/struts...had them on the old one and they make all the difference in the world in the handling...You want a sportwagon the wife can drive? She probably won't let you get your grubby paws on it...!!
Our '01 V70 T5 just turned 18k miles. At this time positives (performance, comfort, space, safety) outweigh the negatives (minor trim flaws, blind spots, funky radio and this clicking issue...) lets hope the clicking does not sway the postive and negative balance on this vehicle. I cannot get use to a "click" in a car of this class.
The click is something I feel more than I hear. It occurs when moving forward and turning the wheel in either direction at low (below 35mph) speeds. Does not occur all the time.
Vehicle is at the dealer getting new stabilizer links installed - have any of you had this done? Interestingly enough while I was dropping the vehicle off two other '01 V70 owners were dropping of theirs for very similar issues. Although they could hear their clicks and thuds more so than feel them. Not sure if the difference in suspension between the T5 and 2.4T leads to this difference or not -- at least I think there is a difference in suspension.
On another topic. Do any of you have information on the ISO-Fix baby seat attachments, are any of you using them? Are there seats available that fit this system?
I still think this is a great car, just some bugs to deal with. If the bugs don't get fixed my opinion could change. I'll keep you posted on what happens with the stabilizer links. Please let me know if any of you have info on the above items.
On my 94 850 wagon, every now and then when I did a slow speed full turn, I would get a definitive thud that I could feel through the steering wheel. It was very disconcerting; dealer never could find the problem or didn't want to. It happened periodically from 1995 (when I got it) until last year when I sold it. It never got any worse but was sure annoying.
After three and half years of constant trips to the dealer for warranty repairs (burned out bulbs of every description, check engine light, front suspension, mostly) we finally gave up on our '98 V70 and traded it for a Toyota Sienna van. How nice it is to drive a quality car again. Comparing notes with other Volvo owners, I've come to the conclusion that many of them have a high tolerance for problems. Even those who praise the mark often admit chronic malfunctions in their cars. Novertheless, they soldier on happily for many miles(often hundreds of thousands). Go figure. As for me, I'll never buy another Volvo.
I went for years with my '94 Volvo turbowagon generally happy with it: I loved the performance; it looked good; the seats were great; it was safe; it was a Volvo which was kinda trendy. It never quit on me outright, but I finally faced up to the fact that it was costing me a lot: AC, brakes, steering column, broken motor mounts, leaking turbo, standard service. An independent Volvo mechanic then clued me on more upcoming problems based on his experience that I should have expected in the next 20k miles. I sold the car at 80,000 miles. I have no idea if this is typical of newer Volvo's, but expect the cost of ownership to be very high.
Comments
Only problem so far was the programming of the HomeLink to take the garage door openning tasks away from my Craftsman remote. The HomeLink was never able to get the door to open, but may have effectively taken over the anti-cloning rolling code -- now the Craftsman remote doesn't work. I inserted new batteries to no avail and the inside-garage open/close switch is now blinking. Is anyone aware of newsgroups or webpages that discuss V70 related problems?
Also, I am looking for recommendations regarding bike racks for the 2001 V70. My Yakima doesn't fit, nor do the Thules. Can anyone recommend the Volvo attachments or good Volvo accessory sites?
Thanks in advance!
I think you will find what you need on the Yakima.com site. The Yakima "Doublecross" clips lock to the Volvo factory rack and carry the round Yakima bar which will most likely accept your current Yakima bike carrier.
I'm still shopping for the new car/SUV...at least I'm having fun driving all the new stuff. Finally got my wife to go along on a test drive. That normally takes an act of the "supreme being" because, for some reason, she absolutely cannot stand car sales people. Stopped by the Porsche/Acura dealer to look at the MDX but they had zero on the lot. So we looked at Porsches...not enough room for my camping gear or mtn bike. So we went down to the Volvo dealer and went out for a spin in a silver T5. "Hmmm, she says, "I like these seats...!!" Now the way I look at it there are two kinds of getting lucky, and I think I just may have hit one of them...
Regards,
Jesse
Ventanabike
Thanks for the info. I had to actually check where you were located to make sure we weren't talking about the same wife.
Prior to your posting, I submitted the form at Yakima's website which indicated that there was no rack yet available for the V70. However, I'll check out your suggestion. My Yakima rack has had 10 years of extensive use and as I mention that, probably should be retired. I'd prefer to stick with the Yakima racks which provides the versatility to swap to different vehicles.
The shopping was fun, but too time consuming. I'm glad I got it done before the 2002 started coming out. I can enjoy my summer much more now and redirect my research to fast road bikes.
I have been reading this “room” for a few weeks now.
I am interested in getting a T5 in the moonlight blue, with a 5-speed manual and a few creature comforts. So starts our story…
We have visited a couple of dealers and we have been told that less than one percent of the Volvos imported into this country have a manual transmission (stick shift) and that, therefore, we had to settle for an automatic (or a manual with whatever configuration was available, but not one with our specifications), unless we were willing to order one from Sweden and wait at least two months for delivery.
The Volvo dealer also could not tell us how long it would take exactly for the car got unless we placed an order, which I found somewhat outrageous. Also, he told us that it was out of the question to test drive one since nobody orders stick shifts.
Insofar as this is a US$40k car, my question is: is it me or they are nuts that they won’t let us test drive one? We’ve been looking at the competition, obviously and we have test driven all of them (X5, 325xi, Passat GLX, Jeep Grand Cherokee, etc.) without a problem. Volvo doesn’t have a single T5, automatic or standard, to test drive. What kind of a luxury vehicle is this?
The sales people at the couple of dealers we’ve seen, compared to their counterparts at BMW, Mercedes and even Jeep, for example, don’t seem interested in selling their cars at all. They didn’t have a brochure, they didn’t have a car available for us to test drive or even look at. What’s going on?
Does anybody have any advice to give?
I am interested in the T5 because I have been reading raving reviews from both auto magazines and owners and it seems like it would be the ideal car for us, but I want to know what it feels behind the wheel…!
Help!
I think if you followed the recently completed "Tour" your research has been conducted and you probably couldn't go wrong with a TREK for a "fast" road bike...although in my experience the bike is only part of the equation. I have a Specialized road bike that I only ride after dark so my friends don't see me on it and thus I do not have to deal with a lot of flak...;-) Out in the hills (the Sierra and adjacent foothills) I ride a Ventana Marble Peak (FS), Ventana is a local Sacramento frame builder. I ride with a mixed crew of mountain bikers (guys/girls - ages from 19 to 61) here in NoCal...some of us even root for the Volvo supported Cannondale Team, though there isn't a Cannondale in the bunch....sorry!!
In regard to racks for the wagon...I used both Thule and Yakima on my old Volvo wagon and I much preferred the Yakima equip over the Thule because it was just a lot more versatile. I hauled stuff on the rack I couldn't get in the car. I think more people have Yakima and that came in handy on several bike trips to Moab (UT) where we were able to swap carriers around in the group to accomodate needs of people going here for biking and there for kayaking or whatever. Bottom line it's a personal choice...get what works for you. The only time I ever took the bars (Yakima) off the car was to swap out carriers.
In regard to Gustav's "quest for fire" a T5 five-speed manual tranny wagon...I'd say go for a factory delivery for that one...
More later,
Jesse
Don't be ashamed of that Specialized! I chose the Specialized StumpJumper over a comparable TREK seven years ago and still rank it up there with the top ten best decisions that I ever made. I still race it with slicks and aero bars at the Time Trials and beat 30% of the road bikes. Tonight's review should include the TREK, Specialized, Fuji and Bianci.
On a more relevant note, I consider my recent V70 purchase among my other top ten best decisions. Only time will tell where it ends up. It's just a superb all-around sports wagon.
Thanks for your advice. I think that is the best way to go. First, I am going to test drive it somewhere. Minnesotta, however, is a bit far, vonn1. Thank you for the suggestion, though.
We picked up our Ash Gold V70 last week and were very disappointed in the condition of the car when it was delivered. It had a pen mark on the center armrest, one of the remotes didn't work, the housing around the fog light switch was heavily gouged when they pried out the dummy switch, the roof was covered with grime and needed to be polished and finally, the rear bumper had dimples in it when it was rear ended a few times by another Volvo during transport. Nevertheless, the dealer fixed everything the next day including a brand new bumper that they took off another car. To compensate for the troubles, they're putting in a spoiler for us at cost.
One thing that bugs me about the V70 is the fog light installation. It is my understanding that the holes for the lights have to be cut into the front bumper. I can't criticize the dealer too much for their butcher job as the plastic is pretty thick and I wouldn't have done any better. Has anyone else noticed this on their cars? You'd think that they would design the bumpers with pop out panels.
Last item, has anyone had any luck in getting locks for the temporary load bars. If so, what are the part numbers? I think you need lock retainers in addition to the locks themselves.
The local Pirelli dealer, after some difficulty, found a replacement at some regional warehouse, at $267 per. The local car dealer mechanics are on strike here in St Louis so there would no help from Volvo.
I think this is a pretty stiff price for a non Z rated tire.
While I agree with you about the lack of need for 17" wheels, unfortunately my wife branded the 16" wheels, "ugly"--no further discussion on that point.
I'm considering pulling all the P6s off and offer them for sale at a price well under $200. There are only 8k miles on them. However, I'll give them their due-they grip quite well without any harshness, and they perform well in wet weather.
My '98 V70 AWD R had Pilots on them and I was quite satisfied with them.
I guess ill have to wait until Next Fall for my replacement. Love the V70XC I have it in Black and its new as of Jan.... Any ideas on what I can do with my ML430
Anything to be afraid of or watch out for? Any major maintenance concerns? Your experience or insight is appreciated.
Personally I'd go for it sight unseen...but then I'm on Prozac...
Is it bright red or that metallic persimmon color?
Jesse
Ventanabike
p.s. had a friend here (he moved to SoCal) who has one, not very stock (IPD and TME parts), and it puts out around 300hp...you ever see a "plain" little wagon smoke all four..?? Whooo Hoooo...!!
Thanks for the feedback. Already have the inspection scheduled with Volvo guru.
Reason a R AWD? That's what I'm being offered in trade (from dealer)for wife's PT Cruiser. She needs a bigger car (kid #2 coming) and I need a car with an engine!! It's a riot to drive...and if this works out, I hope to become an enthusiast - and not hate it! FYI -it's black.
Yes, it is a lot more car than the P/T Cruiser that's for sure. There is one thing I would do (if it really is [choke, choke...] for your wife and kids...) and that would be to leave it stock under the hood but go with some Bilstein shocks/struts and IPD sway bars to tweak the stock handling. You will be amazed at the difference!! How do the tires look? I like black paint also but it's not a color I really consider for where I live (way too hot here in the Summer for black) and for keeping clean...but you can overcome that part of it...make your wife wash it...!
Take care of the suspension and then you can accessorize it....lots of really good Volvo stuff at www.ipdusa.com (sign up for the catalogs and email notes), also check out www.tme.se (these guys are in Sweden -- IPD is the US rep for TME) and take a look at the performance tables for the Volvo line with various TME bits and pieces installed...zowie...!!
Another thing, I vaguely recall reading somewhere that some "earlier" Volvo models could be retrofitted to the ISO standard for affixing child seats...I may be wrong (my wife tells me that a lot...) but it may be worth checking on...a little extra protection for the kids.
GAWD, "...for the wife...." ROF..!! You'll become the enthusiast with that car...it'll be easy!!
I'm still shopping...I dropped by our nearest dealer the other nite and went for another spin in a new T5. Couldn't get my wife to try it (she's velcro'ed to her Celica GT). This means that whatever I finally decide to get will be MINE!! My friends just don't get it. I tell them I'm looking at wagons and they go "Ewwww, icky, you want a WAGON"? My response is "Don't expect me to haul your bikes and baggage (which includes wives and kids) on our next trip to Moab" and just drop it at that...shuts them up every time. I have enough of my own stuff to haul as it is, anyway....!!
Let us know when it's in your garage...
Jesse
Ventanabike
Try to determine if the car came with "sports suspension" option. If so, the ride may be a bit stiff and you may want to look at softer tires.
The performance tires that came on the car do not do well in snow. I put on a set of Blizzaks--what a difference. In fact, I am going to sell them because they will not fit my 2001 V70 T5.
This is my third Volvo with the big turbo, each has been better than the last
Any thoughts on this? Not that I don't trust them but damn't I love this car, paid alot for it and want it to run like a kitten (rather like a lion).
Thanks
James
I would not buy the CV joint explanation. I've had many front drivers, including 3 Volvos, but never had "normal clicking." Generally, when you have a CV joint going bad, you will a click or clunk when turning.
Steve
2002 V70R AWD/PCC2
This is a great car and it has been very hard to find one. If anyone has a link that would be helpful.
Thanx,
GolfNut
Any other pointers that I should be aware of for Volvo oil changes?
Thanks for the help.
best deal on a used T5 so we grabbed it. However, now that the
reality is settling in, we're wondering if this was the most
practical model to get for our needs. So far I have noticed that
the gas consumption isn't the greatest and because of the big
tires my turning radius is average. Any advice?
In T5 form, you have the "go" to go with the "show."
Thanks for the help.
Personally, I would probably look for a 99 vs a 98 as 98 was a first year model. However, I have no information stating it was any better or worse than 98. Also, a 99 may have a year or two left on the warranty.
My wife drives the car most of the time and would not give it up for anything. It is a very comfortable and fun car to drive and she is very pleased with it.
Steve
Thanks for your participation. ;-)
Pocahontas
Host
Hatchbacks / Station Wagons / Women's Auto Center Boards
I have a friend who owns a repair shop that is calling Volvo to see about buying a oil filter wrench specific to the volvo oil filter cover for my 2001 V70 T5. I'll let you know if one is available. My father in law owned a Euro repair shop and couldn't find one yet.
As for the change, it takes 6 quarts, there is a huge plastic shield that needs to come off. Purchase the aluminum washers ($1 a piece) from the dealer to replace each time you change the oil. They go on the drain plug. I would replace them since the aluminum metal is malleable and to ensure a proper fit when you put the drain plug back on, a fresh washer will conform properly. I priced the filter inserts on the internet and in three different states. I found that there was no significant price diff from buying a case from my local dealer. So save yourself the time and just buy a case at the dealer.
When putting the oil filter back on, hand tighten and use your fingers to feel the gap between the plastic sleeve and the mount. Keep tightening by hand until you feel no or a very little gap between the filter sleeve and the engine mount. Don't over tighten.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Take pride in changing your oil. It has made me bond with my most beautifully powerful V70 T5.
alwaysed@mindspring.com
per your request.....the v70r is now in my garage. and the wife and i both love it!
thanks for your input.
CONGRATS on the new baby!! I don't know what it is about some cars but Volvo wagons just grow on you. I purchased my 1971 145S on an overseas delivery on the way home from Vietnam, sight unseen, and sold it in December 1999 for $500, and it only had 302K miles on an original engine (never had the head off)...man, what a vehicle...I am still kicking myself for selling it. Well the upside is that I have $500 in the bank...heck that might even be close to .0125% the cost of a new one!!
Me? I'm still shopping...still leaning toward the T5, but have some other vehicles to drive first...maybe that is the issue, I just like to test drive cars...the heck with buying...!
New thread: OIL FILTER WRENCH, I keep telling everyone on these Volvo forums that you have to check out the IPDUSA.com homepage...tools, accessories, suspension and speed parts for VOLVOS. The last flyer I got from them covers filter wrenches. The first thing I will do with my next Volvo will be to add the IPD sway bars and Bilstein shocks/struts...had them on the old one and they make all the difference in the world in the handling...You want a sportwagon the wife can drive? She probably won't let you get your grubby paws on it...!!
Jesse
The click is something I feel more than I hear. It occurs when moving forward and turning the wheel in either direction at low (below 35mph) speeds. Does not occur all the time.
Vehicle is at the dealer getting new stabilizer links installed - have any of you had this done? Interestingly enough while I was dropping the vehicle off two other '01 V70 owners were dropping of theirs for very similar issues. Although they could hear their clicks and thuds more so than feel them. Not sure if the difference in suspension between the T5 and 2.4T leads to this difference or not -- at least I think there is a difference in suspension.
On another topic. Do any of you have information on the ISO-Fix baby seat attachments, are any of you using them? Are there seats available that fit this system?
I still think this is a great car, just some bugs to deal with. If the bugs don't get fixed my opinion could change. I'll keep you posted on what happens with the stabilizer links. Please let me know if any of you have info on the above items.
God Bless America
www.car-safety.org
They have plenty of info as well as links WRT to car seats.
Good Luck.
On my 94 850 wagon, every now and then when I did a slow speed full turn, I would get a definitive thud that I could feel through the steering wheel. It was very disconcerting; dealer never could find the problem or didn't want to. It happened periodically from 1995 (when I got it) until last year when I sold it. It never got any worse but was sure annoying.
Mike
I think I saw something on the Volvo homepage about this system and I think there were two types of seats available from Volvo.
Jesse
"still looking, still test driving...but, yeah, what the heck...I'm having fun"
http://www.ipdusa.com/Items.cfm?CategoryID=231
Thanks Jesse for the tip.
Car seat. The Graco stroller/car seat we bought does not use the anchors. Rather just the seatbelt. The integrated booster seats will be handy.
Clicking noise. I still get the noise but have yet to figure it out. The dealership said it was a normal CV joint noise. Not buying it yet.
Just my experience,
Mike