1998 Volvo XC70 Reviews - Page 3 of 3

Only normal wear maintenance items. Replaced all brakes, two rotors. Replaced all shocks (I'm fussy about suspension) with Bilstein Touring shocks - highly recommended. Replaced the rear hatch cover fasteners (a typical problem with these cars) with a IPD kit. No rattles.

This car replaced a 1990 740 I handed down to my son. The car is comfortable, like a Volvo. It gets relatively good mileage, about 24 MPG on the highway. Being a wagon, it is a bit noisy, much more so than the sedan. Handling with the new shocks is great. Tracks very well on the highway. Great brakes. The standard (non-turbo) engine is plenty powerful for most people, much better than the old 740. Turning circle is not nearly as tight as the 740, however.

While under warranty, I had it in for o-rings, and some other odd, but rather miscellaneous items. It was in several times, however.

Since the warranty ended at 50,000, several more things have happened.

Two sets of front and rear brakes; one set of rotors on the rear at 90,000 miles.

Stabilizer bar links were replaced at about 80,000 miles.

Odd shuddering has occurred from the beginning while idling, accelerating, decelerating, or just maintaining speed. The dealer could find nothing wrong despite several attempts before the warranty was up.

Both side front bearings were replaced at 65,000 miles.

Entire steering column was replaced for $1200 at 93,000 miles. The same loud noise and awful vibration while steering are still present.

Top and bottom engine mounts have been replaced.

I have spent $5000 in repairs and scheduled maintenance in the past 8 months (75,000 to 93,000 miles).

This is easily the most comfortable car I have ever driven and is ergonomically stellar. However, the unreliability, expense, and oddball repairs I have had are making me ditch the car about 4 years before I wanted to.

I'm not sure I could ever purchase a Volvo again in good conscience.