1996 Volvo 850 GLT 2.3 20v 5 cyl non-turbo from North America

Summary:

Regardless of minor problems, this engine will not die for a long, long time

Faults:

Evaporator cannister.

Brake rotors warped.

Power seat button housing fell off.

Windshield trim came loose.

Door panel material coming off.

ABS/Tracs control module (recall).

Sunroof shade fell apart.

Alternator.

General Comments:

Although many little fit and finish problems, the car has given me lots of trouble free miles in the sense that I drive over 30K miles a year.

Although the car completely died with an alternator problem, it was in my own driveway. It has never left me stranded.

Even though it has the base engine, it has plenty of zip with the 5-speed, handling is good and the seats are extremely comfortable.

Servicing and parts are very expensive.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th October, 2000

3rd Nov 2002, 18:46

I drove a 850 GLT, bought it second hand, had done 120.000 km, I sold it at 270.000 km. It was a great car, magnificent power, beautiful sound, and very very safe feeling. Nice under-steered and a high performance car.

27th Jan 2004, 10:16

I currently drive a 1996 850 GLT, nice!!! I hear the 1993-1995 models have had more problems. I do intend on keeping the car for it's intented life span of 20 yrs. (volvo designed this car to last that long). So, 2016 is when I sell the car.

Volvo for life.

1996 Volvo 850 GLT 16 Valve from North America

Summary:

Excellent station wagon

Faults:

Oxygen sensor - only problem!

General Comments:

OUTSTANDING car. It is reliable, safe and comfortable. We have taken a good amount of trips. It has never left us stranded anywhere

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 29th July, 2000

1996 Volvo 850 CD Estate 2.5 petrol from UK and Ireland

Faults:

Nothing!

General Comments:

This is the 5th Volvo Estate I have had. All have been previously owned. The highest mileage I had before moving on was in a 740 auto estate which had 225,000 miles and was still running OK!

The 850 is the best Volvo I have owned and quite different from its predecessors. At last a Volvo that doesn't need training wheels in order to go round corners. Engine sounds great and it has every creature comfort you can think of.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th December, 1998

29th Jan 2009, 16:35

I've had my 850CD for 12 years since new. It's handled everything thrown at it including 2 growing kids and 2 dogs. It's cavernous for luggage and the only items replaced in 12 yrs and 103,000 miles are battery (2) brake pads, wiper blades (after 6 yrs!) and a sidelight bulb.

I've every intention of using another 103k on the clock rather than spend good money on another new-status car and get a bad purchase. Volvo got it right with this model. Very happy!

1996 Volvo 850 SE Auto Estate 2.5 10v petrol from UK and Ireland

Faults:

Horn failed (repaired under warranty).

Knocking from front suspension - twice repaired under warranty.

Eats front tyres - outside edge of n/s particularly vulnerable due to very tight turning circle.

General Comments:

A great car. Comfortable, refined, spacious, safe and fun if you want it to be!! The dealers in Chesterfield have been marvellous both when buying the vehicle and for after sales.

Despite the jokes, another Volvo will be high on the list when replacement is due.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st May, 1998