I just test drove a 2000 v40 model Volvo (1.9L/Turbo). I quite liked it, and I'm strongly considering buying it. Only hang up is the check-engine light is on, and the problem is unknown. I'm considering having a pre-buy inspection run down done to try and figure this out. The seller is thinking it's one of the O2 sensors perhaps?

Can anybody offer advice on this purchase...? Were these a solid model? Any drawbacks I should be aware of with these?

Thanks for any input if you have it.

...Only hang up is the check-engine light is on, and the problem is unknown...

PROCEED WITH EXTREME CAUTION! Make sure to have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle and pull the OBDC error codes before negotiating a price.

To me, it is strange that the seller didn't know the cause of the dreaded "Check Engine" light before putting this V40 up for sale. Why did he suggest a bad O2 sensor is the culprit? Is that because it sounds like a fairly easy DIY repair that won't scare off potential buyers? Is a more serious problem lurking in the near future, like transmission or turbo failure?

What is the mileage on the V40? Have the timing belt and tensioner been replaced recently? Does it have the original turbo, or has it been rebuilt? Any major oil leaks? Does the seller have maintenance records?

I would be very suspicious of this vehicle until it is examined by a trusted mechanic. If everything checks out, I would offer a low price for assuming the risk of that "unknown" check engine light.

<< southern fried volvo | 2009 S40 | 1991 240 (gone too sone!) >>

Yes,

Solid advice... I'm going to have a pre-buy inspection done. The seller told me today that he and a friend put in a new coil and now the check engine light went off... but perhaps they tried to erase the codes with a reader... so I'm paranoid...

A good check-up inspection should tell me what I want to know... hate to pay for something I don't quite own, but the car looks solid in most respects and I'd like to drive it.

Have had an '01 S40 for a bit over 1-1/2 years.
It came from a family member with 145K and now is at 160K.
So far, nothing major, alternator, flex pipe, brakes etc.
My daughter loves it.

Hi, have a european 2.0 lpt (low power turbo) in the family of my 2002. car is still very solid shape, one O2 renewal because too much city-only-drving. This
white block series is durable design but not most economical in gasoline use.
5speed automatic still in good shape at 100kkm and one ATF flush done.
br Tapsa