I'm thinking of buying a 1996 850 GLE from someone I know. Extremely low mileage, 52,000 km. But it's been sitting for three years with half a tank of gas with somebody moving it for a short distance once a year.

I did some visual checking: coolant looks OK; oil is low but no spot of leakage under the engine; p/s and brake fluid at correct level; trans fluid not checked.
Battery probably needs replacing. Expect tires may have a flat spot and will need replacing as well.

I did not test drive it due to insurance issue but did start the engine in the car port it parks. It starts, but stalls on idling. Coolant temp looks OK as it rises up to the mid of the gauge and stays there while I keep the accelerator paddle. I used an additive to help remove any water in tank. At first not much change but next day I started the engine and it seems to run a little better now - if I release the paddle slowly, it stays at about 700rpm on idling and the engine shakes but keeps running. Engine stalls if I let go the paddle faster.

What kind of servicing do I need in addition of fluid changes and other visible issues such as battery, tire etc. Any suggestions on what this car might need after sitting around for so long? Was 1996 a good year for 850's? Any suggestions on common problems to look for with a 1996 850?

Your kind advices are much appreciated.

Grant,
It is an 18 year old car. Expect problems and maintenance. The tranny and AC evaporator are the weak links. The rest of the potential problems are typical of all cars at that age.
At least it isn't a Honda with the rear quarter panels rusting out.

Klaus
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The 164 has a new home, all I am left with are a 95 854T and a 98 V70R :)

After sitting for so long, the throttle body and idle air control will be in terrible shape. Some of the vacuum lines may show signs of cracking, but that will increase the idle speed.
After a tune up and fluid change, including anti freeze and brake fluid, I suggest driving the car around 2500-3000 rpm for a good 30 minutes to clean everything out. That will also let the valves spin and wear evenly. Don't go to 5000rpm for a while :)
Do an additional oil change after about 500 miles or so. Then drive the car forever.

Klaus
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The 164 has a new home, all I am left with are a 95 854T and a 98 V70R :)

Thanks Klaus for your advice. It seems to me that the idling stall problem is not "unresolvable" and hopefully won't cost too much.

How do you rate a 1996 850GLE? Does this model has a lot of complaints, recall or known issues? Thanks.