Faults:

The timing belt came off at 90,000 miles though I had changed it per manufacturer criteria at 69,000 miles. Consequently spent $4000 getting top half of the engine rebuilt. There have also been some problems with the front shock/strut assembly and the emissions control unit (not costly, but the Check Engine light comes on.

General Comments:

The turbo powered (approx) 240 horse power makes this a good maneuvering vehicle to pass and merge/weave in traffic (but not a sports car). I was also surprised at how well it handled (compared to my previous Sentra SER) for a larger car. Tight suspension so you do feel the bumps. If possible it is too comfortable... more so than my wife's 2003 Audi A6. I also like the "heavy car" feeling. Obviously it is more expensive to maintain and repair than the Nissan and the need to "chill" the turbo after highway driving is a pain sometimes. I look forward to driving it and the truth is it has been dependable except for when the replacement timing belt came off. That was a bad scene. Truth is, based on this car I would go out and buy another Volvo and wouldn't know what else to buy (can't afford BMW or Mercedes)...and I am not one of those Volvo fanatics. Oh yea... brakes also very good and have demanded no more attention than the previous Nissan, Chevy, Mercury etc that I have owned.

Faults:

50K, Transmission fell out on the 101 Freeway threatening the safety of my life, after purchasing the car from a private party and mechanics approval.

Front rotors replaced, brake pads replaced.

Cruise control does not work.

Back rotors shimmer when braking and have very fine low hum after a few hours of driving.

General Comments:

I have recently purchased a S70 Volvo T-5 after searching to get this car for over three years. I was very excited and looking forward to the enhanced reliability, safety and performance of a Volvo. Most of all I was interested in purchasing a car that would not breakdown.

Well it broke down on the 101 in nasty traffic causing a major problems and dangerous situation.

I do not like this car, and will never buy a Volvo again...

Faults:

Rattling began at 20,000 miles. The dealer was unable to resolve the problem.

The panels feel apart, but the dealer covered them under warranty.

Leather seats wore down at 50,000 miles. Mind you I only weigh 165 pounds.

ABS Brake Sensor broke at 60,000 miles. I asked the dealership about this problem because the guy standing next to me had the same problem. The service person said that this problem is common and to expect it to happen in another 60,000 miles. Cost $700 to repair (must be more expensive to fix in New Jersey).

At 60,000 miles the struts and shocks needed replacing, but I've forgone that expense and have accepted the seriously rough ride.

The window control (which also controls the sun roof) unit has just broke at 81,000 miles. I'm not looking forward to this repair bill.

Lights on the shifter and radio no longer function.

The headlight switch needs to be jiggled in order to work.

General Comments:

The performance and paint job are great with this car, but it pretty much ends there. The traction is bad in the snow unless you get snow tires. The traction is bad on a dry summer day unless you have Z-rated performance tires. The repairs are prohibitively costly.