I am going to look at a 2000 C70 Coupe on Friday, and would appreciate any tips of specific problems to look for. It is a 5 speed coupe with 112,000 miles. The asking price is $6700. My neighbor works part time for the dealer and is bringing it home for me to see. I asked him to see if service records are available. I would hope the timing belt had been changed by now, but it may soon be due again, to be safe. What other parts can I expect to have problems with soon due to the mileage (clutch?, turbo?). I'm used to driving my 64 1800 which seems like it would run forever.
Thanks
Mike

I have a 98 C70 T5M Coupe and it has been a good car. I would check the power window operation - the regulators (made by Siemens I think) aren't very good. Had to have the driver's side replaced. Passenger works fine, though I don't use them much, just keep the AC on.

I also don't trust the 3disk CD changer - I hooked up Sirius using the Blitzsafe CD input jack, works great!! I have the Dolby stereo.

I would change the rad hoses, timing belt, water pump, serp belt, and check the plugs - I still have a coil and distributor cap, 2000 may have individual coils.

I also disconnected the headlight wipers - more trouble than their worth, but I left them on for appearance sake.

Otherwise I like it - you may want to look into ECU upgrades from IPD, etc.

as always...great advice from Klaus...

One item I had fail prematurely on mine...were the hub bearings...strange that is was both of them?? So, when you test drive it...pay special attention to the drive train....if you hear 'rumbling' from the front end...that is more than likely the culprit. Looking back at my maint records I replaced them at ~65K miles...not a difficult job...just a PITA...

Another strange one...error code ECM 201A was caused by an IAT sensor failure....very easy to replace the sensor.

Error code 720A was a head scratcher... The car would start momentairly...but then shut itself off... Attempt to re-start the car it would just crank over like there was no spark...? Let it sit for 10-15 minutes and it started and drove normally...??? The error code is an ignition antenna ring failure. Simple to fix...

End-links. The C70's links are under-engineered...just get the heavy duty links from IPD...five year warranty...

Upper engine mount is another weak spot...also another easy fix. IPD has a solid neoprene mount avbailable for ~$25 (PN WS2B1880) lifetime warranty. Simple fix...

Turbo drain gasket...NOT a simple fix. I could not get the coolant lines off. Very little clearance and I didn't want to risk bending those lines. Took it to Volvo...they went easy on me...I got out of there for less than $100. Once it starts leaking...it LEAKS...!

Have fun driving it...They don't look like you typical Volvo...and they drive GREAT!!!

Frank

Frank,

Your message was very helpful to me, as I am another new C70 convertible owner...

I need an upper motor mount, and you mentioned IPD. How do I find them?

Thanks,

Karl
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Each road should be a bit better for having had you pass.

http://www.ipdusa.com/

This refers to IPDUSA.com. Big vendor of Volvo performance and repair parts for US customers.

Where are you? I do not recall a manual trans C70 being sold in USA, in either convertible of coupe version. Should be a fantastic car.

I found out it is an HPT. Any special problems associated with those (besides speeding tickets)?

Thanks
Mike

At full boost and wet pavement, the front wheels may break loose :) To say nothing about the smile on your face :)

You loose about 1 mpg verses the LPT but the resale is better.

Klaus
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Just driving a 1998 V70R :)

LOL, not to worry. The convertibles are one year behind the rest of the fleet, so you essentially have a 1999 Volvos engine and drivetrain. Which is OK. The timing belt was supposed to be changed out at 105K or earlier, along with the tensioner. The clutch will go over 200K if not abused.
The only hassle is the electronic throttle module, it might cause problems but tthe factory has backed it for 200K miles or 10 years.
The rest of the drivetrain is fairly easy to maintain, synthetic oils, individual coils over each spark plug, and the turbo will last for an easy 100K miles farther.
Things to watch out for are the electronics. Make sure the seat back controls work, etc.

If your friend works for a Volvo dealer, have them scan the codes and print them all. Then have them all deleted. Keep the list for FYI.

Check the AC for coldness, it should be at least 41-42F on a 70F day, with the ac in recirc mode and the center vent closed to outside air. The compressor should not cycle on/off rapidly. If you buy the car, keep the AC switched on all of the time and make use of the ECC.

Klaus
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Just driving a 1998 V70R :)

I am curious as to why the advice to keep the ac turned on all the time.

Thanks

When the top is up, let the ECC do its thing. When it gets too cold outside, below 45F the ECC will turn off the AC by itself. The AC on all of the time, year round, keeps the compressor oiled. If you turn off the AC for 6 months, our winter, you might find the seals drying out and leaking.
Besides, it helps keep the interior of the car dry by removing humidity.

Don't forget to replace the cabin filter annually, if you park outdoors you might want to vacuum off the leaves and twigs at the 6 month mark.

Klaus
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Just driving a 1998 V70R :)

Thanks-That makes a lot of good sense.