I have a 1995 Volvo 850 Wagon (5 Speed Manual) with 120K on it. I bought the car with 60K on it from the dealer with all records. This car has had ZERO, I mean ZERO problems. I have replaced the brake pads once, changed the timing belt and auxilery belt plus changed oil/filter and air filter. Pretty standard, "normal Maintainence". I havn't even changed one, not one lightbulb.

I live in NH and the winters can be harsh and summers Hot.

I also have a 1999 S70 Sedan (5 speed ) with 90 K on it. I have owned this since new.

Here are my repairs.

20,000 miles 1 light bulb right front.

70,000 miles 1 clutch sensor (30 bucks)

Other than that change oil filters etc. Even my brakes are 100% original and I do a fair amount of city driving. Ie I have not changed pads once.

Timing belt is due for a change at 105,000

So, from my experience, Volvo Kicks Ass and parts are resonable. I never ever go the dealer for anything. I buy filters etc. after market and if anything needs to be done I do it or have my local volvo guru do it. Dealers do stink and are VERY expensive but they are for BMW, AUDI, SAAB or Mercedes.

My brothers 240 now has 280 K on it..100% original engine tranny..Zero problems and is a daily driver in Boston.

He also has a 1993 850 with 250,000 miles on it..Again Zero Zero problems. 5 speed tranny and engine are 100% original and AC/evaporator works great. I do believe he replaced the alternator around 220,000 miles.