Greetings, I usually post on the RWD forums as I have two 940's and had a 240. Recent issues with those have me thinking about getting a newer Volvo.I noticed our local dealer has some used ones. A 2003 S60 5 speed, a couple of 06's and an 08. I can't afford a new one but thought a used one would be a good choice. I know the I5's you have to keep up on the timing belts. Any other issues of concern ? Thanks.

It is important to use synthetic motor oil in these engines, especially the turbos. Otherwise you could have PCV problems like the RWD cars. As Klaus mentioned, service records are highly recommended.

Make sure all the electrical stuff works.

I've been researching various models as it is time for me to move on from 95 855. I don't own one but they have a good track record. Even with Consumer Reports...:)

Both of you,thank you for your responses.

No dealer flushes the auto trannies. If you looked at a Volvo dealer, make sure that the car wasn't bought at auction from who knows where and no maintenance history. Ask to see cars that the dealership sold/maintained. They can also show you a printout of the maint history. Carfax tells a lot.

Take a 30 minute test drive in stop and go situations. That will heat up the ATF and/or the clutch. If it has a clutch, the closer to the floor for disengage, the more the wear. A good driver will probably have to replace the clutch at around 200K.

Timing belts are now 105-120K intervals. Depends on model year. AWD since 2003 is Haldex, quite reliable but will take 2mpg and a bit more maintenance.

Stay away from any Volvo 2001-2002.
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My back feels better when I sit in a Volvo seat

I think I found one,local Volvo dealer sold there, 1 owner, 2006 S60 AWD 83,000 miles. I have to go test drive and see if I can get a good price.

Strongly consider having a dealer do a check for certification. Cost me one hour's labor.

When my dealer checked out our '08 XC 70 they found a leaking vacuum pump and rusty rotors, the rest of the car passed their examination.

The tech wrote the brake pads as not properly contacting the rotors. He also found three 1/8" holes in the passenger door pocket and a loose rear deck latch. (I thought it was a noise in the rear suspension.)

The dealer (Lincoln) installed a new pump and new front rotors and pads all around, they lightly turned the rear rotors.

More than two years later, nothing has had to be done to the car except oil changes, it is now exhibiting a slight brake pedal pulse on hard braking, probably need brake work at my next service.

I always like to tell people that the techs who check my cars can tell you if an ant farted in the trunk last year.