1986 Volvo 240 DL Sedan review from North America

This car has had mostly typical problems for older high-mileage cars. Alternator replaced in early 2000 with rebuilt model, and replaced again in 2005. New master cylinder. All brake lines replaced and two brake jobs. Rotors ground down, all new brake calipers. New struts (one new strut housing dew too bad pothole), spark plugs, muffler, exhaust piping, and catalytic converter. New taillights (due to cracked lenses) and front turn signal. New rims. Motor mounts replaced due to engine shaking. New radiator. New overdrive relay and solenoid. Numerous fuses and wire repairs. Most major repair was having the original automatic transmission rebuilt (overhaul) and reinstalled.

The transmission was rebuilt in 2002 for a bargain price of $1200. However, I must take personal responsibility for the damage necessitating the repair. The car was stuck in a snow drift, and I foolishly stripped the gears while trying to rock the car free (i'll never make that mistake again) The transmission now performs absolutely flawlessly as it did before the damage I caused. The car was one owner when I bought it and not everything was maintained perfectly, but the engine was. The engine is still cleaner and more pristine then most cars less than 5 years old. And the engine has never had any internal trouble and performs like new, never stalling and still getting 26 mpg highway. The body is heavy and rock solid. Aside from annoying wiring problems and the short life of the rebuilt alternators, this car is a real gem and aside from the routine maintenance required to keep the car running perfectly and safely, the car is extremely cost effective. Even including maintenance and the more major items like the tranny and radiator, this car is undoubtedly much cheaper then leasing a new car, and is much heavier and safer as well.