1996 Volvo 850 Base review from North America

This car goes through light bulbs faster than I could go through a bag of potato chips.

The passenger window does not go up, probably the result of a bad switch.

Winter Mode switch does not work.

ABS module needs to be replaced, $800 at dealer when I work up the courage to get it done.

Dashboard rattles.

Weather stripping on passenger side is peeling.

The car needs to crank for about 5 seconds or else it won't start.

Power steering groans.

Gas tank began leaking horribly soon after I purchased the car, although the dealership replaced it for free because the tank was recalled.

Parking break shoes were completely stripped, but this was probably the fault of the previous owner rather than the car itself.

Antenna doesn't retract all the way.

FM radio does not work.

This car is underpowered, it is extremely slow around town.

The seats are very comfortable, the driving position is excellent. The cloth interior has held up very well for an 11-year-old car.

It handles great for a Volvo.

It's an extremely safe car.

I've been averaging 19 mpg with a 50/50 mix of city and highway driving.

Although small things keep breaking, the car itself has been reliable and has never left me stranded.