I found a 95 850 turbo wagon (amethyst color) 125k miles, for $3k, one owner, who says she had it serviced at the dealer up until a few years ago when she started taking it to a local shop. She says she hasn't driven it in about 6-8 months and that it might need a new battery (I'm not sure if sitting around not being driven will lead to other problems?).

I've been trying to compile information as to what to check when I take a look at the aforementioned car (to see if it's indeed in good basic condition before I take it to a mechanic to check out). For this model so far I have:

1. Check the timing belt was taken care of at 70ishk miles, and water pump at around 110k
2. Oil changed regularly
3. Front engine mounts and crank pully at 80k
4. Check the A/C (I read somewhere that this A/C problem can be diverted by installing a filter or something?)
5. When test driving warm up the car on the freeway and check the tranny fluid (I'll have to look up how exactly this is done)
6. Check that the transmission/gears all seem to function well

Is there a way for me to check the turbo, aside from actually driving the car?

Also, I am not rolling in money, and am slightly wary about dependability issues with this model. (Ergo I'm being very careful about buying something! And for this car she says she has most of the repair receipts).

Should I just forget it and get an early 90's 240 or 700 series model with fewer things to worry about? I expect to pay a certain amount of yearly upkeep in exchange for a car that may save my life ;o)

Any input is welcome. Including good Volvo repair shops in Los Angeles (although the car is located out past Pasadena in Duarte/Monrovia....so I'm looking also for a place to do an assessment on it). So far I only know of Walter Wong who does Saabs and sometimes Volvos.

Thanks,

Saskia