Mickb
Hi all, been a while, I am after information/ observations opinions.
I am looking to purchase a 2005, 2.5 turbo awd cx70, 102 K k's , is there any real pitfalls with these models, appears to be rather well kept, reasonably priced, any advise, experiences would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers All
Mick
ramrod
The number one problem is the lack of transmission longevity
Mickb
Hi Ramrod, what sort of issues ? Remedy, costly ?
ramrod
They get neglected due to a lack of maintenance. People forget a transmission is like an engine in that it too needs fresh fluid on a regular basis. I'm not sure of the cost of a rebuild or replacement, but I do know if the Volvo dealer replaces it the job is in the $8,000s
Spac
Also a very limited supply of good used autos because of this.
And it gets worse - simply servicing an already neglected auto does not promise any additional longevity because often the new oil removes old sludge and chokes it from the inside.
This is the main reason these cars are so cheap. I would consider buying one if:
1. It has a good history of the auto being serviced including software updates. (The newer software gives the plates - and consequently the oil - a longer life).
OR
3. The car is cheap enough that you can scrap it if/when the auto dies.
OR
3. If it had the ATF changed over 10,000km but under 50,000km ago AND the ATF is still clean AND the auto shows zero signs of glitches, hiccups etc, both cold and hot.
————
If that hasn’t scared you off, also beware of neglected motors/turbos, usually identified by smokey exhaust, and/or sludge in the oil filler cap. Blown Head gaskets are not unheard of too.
The AWD gear can give dramas but usually only if the car has been fitted with mis-matched tyres or thrashed.
There’s lots of stuff about the electronic throttles being problematic, but it mostly it related to the very early ones - I would almost say that this is any internet myth when it comes to 05 models.
Front end clunks are semi-common. Nothing is overly expensive/difficult to fix, but keep it in mind.
Heater cores can leak, but are apparently the easiest heater cores to replace.
Really, apart from the auto problem, they’re probably more reliable than most ~15 year old cars. We’ve had two P2 cars (a V70 T5 and an XC), and neither gave us any drama.
Spac
I would also suggest editing the title of your post to include “XC70 buying advice” or similar.
Ex850R
Reasonably priced considering the auto can detonate is not much than scrap value.
Our local volvo repairer and used parts dealer will not even buy them anymore as nobody needs parts other than gearboxes.
There is a rebuild that isn't that expensive if you love the car. There are parts available from USA to make it strong too.
How cheap is this car?
Mickb
Hi Snoopy
The car is $6k, very tidy looking, did notice pcv pipe to tappet cover snapped, wonder if deliberate to stop pressure build up cause of blockage
Ex850R
6k is probably 5400 too much if you consider the cost to fix a gearbox even if you do install yourself.
For that money you are at P3 buying for say an xc60 ,they come up. If you add gearbox to buying price you are at 10k. (Getting it record and fitting yourself) you are well into some newer and better car buying range,even p3 xc70.
Mate bought a P3 2008? Xc70 3.2 with high K's for about 6k......
Two years ago I could have got a P2 xc70 2.5t with blown head gasket but absolutely mint low kilometres for 700..... but it went to scrap very fast due to his logistics nightmare.
Don't do it,as said before,only buy at a price you are prepared to scrap it at any point after purchase be it 2 weeks or 2 years.
Mickb
Thanks Snoopy, you've saved me a lit of grief and expense, will keep looking
Cheers mate
Mickb
Snoopy
What are your views on 2005 S80 2,5t, 98K k's again $6k, I know to steer clear of the earlier twin turbo 6s,
Ex850R
Same gearbox?