1997 Volvo 850 SE review from North America
"Not everything it's cracked up to be"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Main rear Seal Blew (expensive & common)
Thermostat blew.
Drivers heated seat shorted.
Car has clunks and Rattles.
Dealer Costs are astronomical.
Rear Lift Shocks blew, separated plastic panel from slamming down.
General comments?
Although it provides a firm comfortable ride, and is renown for safety, the durability has dissapointed me as well as the associated maintenenance costs. The car has very poor hear and is always requiring expensive maintenence (latest is $1400 for rear main seal, timing belt, and hood shocks) I bought this car primarily for safety, but also for for the sake of low cost and reliability where I have been disappointed. My 240 was better.
Recommended reviews
| Love is complicated |
|
| A comfortable luxury car with high costs |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.4 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 4 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 106000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 110000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Ford Taurus |
| Date of Entry | 16th February, 2003 |