I'm looking into getting another Volvo Wagon, but I would like to know what models and model years I should stay away from. I have been told that any Volvo Wagon that has a GM Transmission in it is junk and for that matter a very costly repair, for which I would like to avoid.
Let me know. Thanks.

Where is Weare? New Hampshire?

If you can turn wrenches, look at my red 855R in the classifieds

My understanding is that the 1998's are the best older V70's. Basically an updated 850. 1999's and 2000's are good cars as long as the ETM has been fixed and you stay away from the 5 speed automatics in the 2000 models. Only buy the older 4 speed auto (turbos only) or a 5 speed manual in that model year. In fact, the 5 speed manual is the best tranny to buy in any Volvo. Shifts a little like a Swedish tractor (but not as bad as a 240), but is utterly bulletproof. I've never heard of one going bad.

As mentioned, the 2003 and up FWD's are good cars. The 2004 and up AWD's are also a good choice. My sister bought a 2006 V70XC new and they have had great luck with it. It even survived being rear-ended by a Lincoln Navigator. The Navigator was totalled!

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95 855 GLT Sportwagon 222k, 90 244 DL 300k+ - after 11 years has a new home

The GM transmission is only found on XC90's with the T6 motor, NOT the V8
Google 4T65EV/GT and volvo xc90 and you'll get your answer!

You responded to the wrong post. Try the OP...

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95 855 GLT Sportwagon 222k, 90 244 DL 300k+ - after 11 years has a new home

What do you mean by "GM" transmission? Just stay away from 2001-2002 Volvos. The cheap 1999's used to have ETM issues.

Make sure you have access to maintenance records, that is the most important.

AWD V70s were made better in 2003 with Haldex.

I was just told this morning that I should stay away from late model 2000, 2001 and the first half of 2002 vehicles made. I was also alerted that the s80's 6 cylinder and the xc90's 8 cylinder vehicle have several known issues pertaining to transmissions.

Transmissions where a joint venture between Volvo and General Motors. He mentioned that if people have those vehicles, that when the original tranny goes to not even think about aftermarket or used ones. He mentions that you should deal direct with Volvo Europe and it will cost you roughly $4300 for a new Volvo Transmission, Done right.

This information came from a Volvo Guru, who has spent his entire life working solely on Volvos. He is so well respected that people travel all over the country to come buy his cars.

Thanks.

True, the first 2 years of the 5 speed autobox were a disaster waiting to happen.

False - GM didn't make the tranny:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aisin_AF33_transmission
The AW55 is used by Toyota and other makes as well as Volvo.

The problem transmissions for the 01's and 02's were made by General Motors Corp. Haldex is the AWD unit.

That's interesting. I believe Volvo was owned by Ford then. GM trannies in a quasi-Ford vehicle!

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95 855 GLT Sportwagon 222k, 90 244 DL 300k+ - after 11 years has a new home