I replaced the steering rack on this car at 185000 miles.
Seats are getting pretty worn out internally (broken springs, etc), although the cloth upholstery looks good.
I'm starting to get a little rust, but I live in Minnesota, where that's tough to combat.
Other than that, I've only had to do routine maintenance, including the occasional new brake pads.
I love this car, and intend to drive it for 300,000 or more miles.
Living in a cold climate, I can say that the best thing about Volvos is the heat and defrost! Both kick in very quickly, and make cold winter mornings significantly easier.
The parts for Volvos are more expensive than a lot of cars, but I haven't found that I need to replace them very often. At nearly 200,000 miles, I still have the original clutch!
It's boxy, but feels very safe and comfortable.
Other Volvo 240 owners come over to talk to me in parking lots -- it's clear that 98% love their 240s. Darn good, reliable, honest cars.
I will drive this car for a long time, and then I'll go out and buy another one just like it.
Absolutely have to agree about the '85 Volvo 244DL. I bought mine in 1990 with 100,000 miles. Initially, I put a couple of thousand dollars into repairs, but since then it's been pretty reliable. I just had the state inspection and emissions on it for registration and it looks like the brakes should be relined over the summer (only drive it about 1200 miles a year). The paint is that deep ruby red and it is still beautiful. I really like this car and want to keep it as long as possible. (Be lost without it.) I have an independent Volvo mechanic who I've been going to since around 1993 and he is really good.
I hope other 240 owners enjoy their cars as much as I do.
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