1987 Volvo 740 GLE review from North America

The steering got a little sloppy after 150000 so I got that fixed. That was about $1200.00 and wasn't really necessary, but certainly tightened the steering considerably.

The tailights had to be replaced once. They stick out so if you back into something they break. $450.00. They also retain moisture, so if you live in a rainy climate, you should drill some discreet holes in the light assemblies at the bottom for drainage of moisture.

The sunroof was half open and ripped out and blew away when driving through a deep canyon in exceptionally windy conditions.

The alternator went out. Then bought an after market alternator. Big mistake. Went out three times and they replaced with a Bosch alternator. Only use genuine Volvo parts for this car and only take it to someone exceptionally familiar with Volvo repair.

Overheated one time in 1992, and belts broke once. Replace the timing belt every time you have that area open, such as changing alternator, or every 50000.

There was a relay behind the dash that caused the car to stutter and seem like a transmission problem when the air conditioner or defroster was on. This relay is the most likely cause and you should suggest it before the repairman experiments any further on solutions for that problem.

An exceptional value. If you find one of these models used that is clean and has a maintenance record and low miles, you can't go wrong. It is a world class auto that is inexpensive to maintain in the long haul. I spent more money maintaining my 1982 Chevy Cavalier than I did with this car. Look at such a purchase for the long term. Be patient. Sometimes repairs can come all at once and parts are expensive, but then not any more repairs for years and years. Built like a Russian army tank, I slammed the doors open on concrete pillars many times and it never dented.