Time to junk a 1997 Volvo 850?

explore41
Tue, 05 Oct 2010 01:17:33 +0000
Maintenance/Repairs

I’m at a crossroads with my beloved 1997 Volvo 850. I’d rather not get rid of it, but I believe that the current estimates - from non-dealership mechanics - are too high, considering that I don’t know what the next big thing will be, and with an older car, there is likely to be a next big thing.

The car has 137k miles on it, and some oil leaks. Two different opinions have yielded different responses about where the oil leaks are occurring and the extent of the damage. My trusted mechanic believes that I need to have the rear main seal replaced, and that there are oil leaks in other areas as well.

In addition, I have a coolant leak. A diagnostic test showed some issues with the steering system, a need to replace the engine mounts, and the need for a new timing belt.

All told, the estimates are $4200 (with just the oil leaks and coolant leak addressed) to about $6200 with all of the problems addressed.

Should I go somewhere else for a third opinion/price estimate, or cut my losses?

I can’t afford another Volvo. As much as I love the older ones, I can’t keep putting this much money into repairs.

Thanks.

7 posts - 7 participants