Faults:

Engine tick that comes and go.

Oil leak (rear main seal)

Oil light comes on even though oil is topped off. Must be an oil passageway problem that causes the erratic tick. Since this is a beater car, repair has been held off.

Power steering went out, $500 to repair.

Exhaust rust through.

Rear disc brakes warped.

A/C is out.

General Comments:

Car is surprisingly fast with the low pressure turbo- sure its no sports car, but it is quite speedy considering the conservative looks. It has surprised a few wannabe racers (I don't condone street racing), though it certainly can't hold a candle to some of the newer sedans.

Handling is good and the car is a real "driver's" car - a real pleasure to drive back and forth to work.

Charcoal leather interior has held up really well - very comfortable and the leather still looks great. Heated seats are a pleasure in Michigan weather and the winter driving mode / traction control has helped in the bad blizzards.

Even though it hasn't been %100 reliable, the car has never left me stranded. A bonus considering the other troubles I've gone through.

This car leaves me divided about Volvo - my wife's 850 has been quite reliable while mine is a money eater. Reading the reviews of the latest models makes me question Volvo's overall reliability. I really like the safety features and don't know how I can go to another car manufacturer.

Faults:

Leather seats worn slightly.

Had to replace the rear speakers.

Several of the lights on the console have gone out.

Previous owner replaced:

ABS controller

All hoses

Shocks

And a lot of other stuff, however it has never had any engine or transmission problems.

General Comments:

In sports mode it has good acceleration, however its gas mileage is comparable to most modern small SUVs (17 city, 24 highway).

It is very reliable and is built like a tank.

It's my first car, and with the rear seats folded down, it has plenty of space for a bike, my surfboard, or whatever else you want to stick in it. It handles amazingly and is just a great car.

Faults:

A lot, but there just wear and tear yo.

General Comments:

I love this car. you couldnt go wrong about buying one, built to last, safe, comfortable. and its just a great all around car yo.

Faults:

Undetermined oil leak.

A/C leak.

Needs new tires frequently.

Heated seats no longer heat.

Transmission will not allow shifting from Park for first 10 seconds after start-up.

Minor electrical problems with radio.

General Comments:

Despite the many problems that I have had with my Volvo it is still a good car. A used 850 is affordable and the insurance is fair. The engine is strong enough for most people and the car seats 5 comfortably. My advice would be to have a dealer inspect the car before buying a used 850 to ensure that there are no faults with major components.