1996 Volvo 850 GLT review from UK and Ireland
"Smart, safe and speedy"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Developed severe ECU problems at 60000 miles, resulting in the vehicle losing power randomly - this made the vehicle both infuriating and unfit to drive. Much money was spent on rectifying his problem.
Only months later, the gearbox developed faults and would not engage reverse gear when starting from cold. Due to the design of the 850, the gearbox would have to be removed completely to gain sufficient access to repair this.
The final straw was when another electrical fault developed. This one again occurred randomly and stopped the warning lights and starter motor activating upon turning the key. However, after ten minutes of waiting, things would start working again.
General comments?
The Volvo 850 is a delightful, fast and very comfortable car. In the right colour it looks brilliant, and the interior still looks and feels very good. It's also incredibly safe for a car of it's age as well.
Providing the 850 remains reliable, it makes a very good car. However, if you are unfortunate enough to end up with all the problems mine had, it becomes an absolute (and very expensive) swine.
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| Better than my other far more expensive car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 TDI Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 4 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 30000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 70000 miles |
| Previous car | Volvo 940 |
| Date of Entry | 7th December, 2003 |