I got the Volvo Premier warranty (100,000 miles, $50.00 deductable) thrown in when I bought the car. I've had the transmission replaced (85,000 miles), the ABS/Tracs sensor replaced (80,000 miles), the climate control controller module replaced (70,000 miles), the driver's side axle/hub assembly replaced (62,000 miles), the heater core replaced (59,000 miles), the fuel pump replaced (56,000 miles. Total cost of repairs would have been $6000.00-$8000.00, depending on where the work was performed.

I've always found it easier to budget for repair eventualities in advance, so even if I had to purchase the warranty, I probably would have done it.

Kind Regards,

Mike Harris in Sedona

Consumer Reports customer reliability survey indicates 2001 was the last year in which the V70 has major reliability issues. Major trouble spots are electical, power equipment, and to a lesser degree, transmission. So, make sure that any extended warranty covers these issues.
I don't personally have any experience with extended warranties, but I would be inclined to go with the Volvo warranty because you know the Volvo dealer will honor it. A third party warranty might require you to file a claim after you have already paid for the repair. On the other hand, if you prefer to take your car to a local indy that you trust, the third party warranty might be better; but the devil is in the details, so make sure you understand what it provides for. Also check with Volvo, they offer different deductibles ($50, $100, $200) so if your car has been reliable you might opt for a higher deductible for a lower price on the warranty. 100k miles is alot of miles, so it might be worthwhile.

The terms & conditions of the extended warranty (like, what is in/excluded) is at the heart of the matter, as you know. But if the terms are fairly generous (i.e., few exclusions), then I'd say buy it! My '98 has been 5 & 10-ing me twice a year since it hit 4yrs/70000mi.

my humble opinion -- I'm not right for this car, since I only enjoy driving it, but don't enjoy getting my hands dirty with her every other month.

people paint the picture here on the 2001 models, sounds like it will pay for iteself over the next few years!