I searched on this topic, apologies if it's been addressed already.

I'm going to look at a 1996 854 GLT later today, 93K.
Does the 850 store the actual milegae on an ECU unit, as the later models do? This model doesn't have the electronic odometer, just wondering how easy it is to roll it back - or if Volvo incorporated any measure to prevent this?

Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks in advance!

Thanks for the replies everyone, appreciate it.
Looked at the car yesterday and didn't even test drive it - it was a big leaker.
Little oil on the dipstick, lots on the ground under it. No, thanks - already have that issue! (rear main seal)

Tell you what, seeing what's out there I'm halfway considering dumping a new engine into the '96 854T that I already have, and being done with it!

Yes the odometer can be physically rolled back but it's not that easy. You need to take the instrument cluster out and removed the odometer. Once you do that an electric drill and a pencil are all you need. 850 low mileage is often due to a broken odometer gear. Be sure it moves when you give it a test drive.

Unfortunately, you need a Volvo scan tool to see the actual mileage. The 1994-5 could use the DTC boxes.

I never considered low mileage a plus in a used car (less than 10K/yr) because that meant that it didn't get driven enough to splash the oils around the engine and keep components bathed and clean. Like going to the dealer by the book, nothing gets maintained.
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My name is Klaus and I am a V ♂ lv ♂ holic.

the analoge odometer is VERY easy to meddle with..but yes the ecu keeps track of the true mileage.