Well, so much for that one.
A couple of days ago, doing about 65 mph in the passing lane of Route 128 around Boston, my 1996 850 suddenly decided to shift itself into neutral and stay there.
Fortunately, I managed to coast safely across two lanes of traffic to the side of the road. I had it towed to the nearest Volvo dealer where they've determined it needs a new tranmission ($3200). While they were at it, they pointed out that I need new tie rod ends, steering knuckles, and motor mounts. Also, at 65,000 miles I'm almost due for a timing belt. They offered to do it all, in two weeks, for a mere $ 5500.
So, that's it. It's over. Just two weeks ago I gave it a new exhaust system ($650). Now I've paid for the tow, a $50 cab ride, missed a day of work, and I've got to get it out of the dealer's lot before they start charging me for storage. I'll probably have to donate it to charity, which means I have to pay them to tow it away. I've spent a fortune on this car, including the purchase two years ago and the fact that it now has zero value, it's cost about $500/month.
65,000 miles and not worth the price to fix it.Anyone out there want it?
I will never buy another Volvo (though my wife still drives our other '96
850).-----
-RL ('76 262, '78 264, '87 240, '89 240, '96 850)