1997 Volvo 850 GLT review from North America

Engine tick that comes and go.

Oil leak (rear main seal)

Oil light comes on even though oil is topped off. Must be an oil passageway problem that causes the erratic tick. Since this is a beater car, repair has been held off.

Power steering went out, $500 to repair.

Exhaust rust through.

Rear disc brakes warped.

A/C is out.

Car is surprisingly fast with the low pressure turbo- sure its no sports car, but it is quite speedy considering the conservative looks. It has surprised a few wannabe racers (I don't condone street racing), though it certainly can't hold a candle to some of the newer sedans.

Handling is good and the car is a real "driver's" car - a real pleasure to drive back and forth to work.

Charcoal leather interior has held up really well - very comfortable and the leather still looks great. Heated seats are a pleasure in Michigan weather and the winter driving mode / traction control has helped in the bad blizzards.

Even though it hasn't been %100 reliable, the car has never left me stranded. A bonus considering the other troubles I've gone through.

This car leaves me divided about Volvo - my wife's 850 has been quite reliable while mine is a money eater. Reading the reviews of the latest models makes me question Volvo's overall reliability. I really like the safety features and don't know how I can go to another car manufacturer.