Skip to main content

Used 1996 Volvo 850 Consumer Reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
119 reviews

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

Price history graph example

Trending topics in reviews

Pros
Cons
4.75 out of 5 stars

Keep on runnin'

Lifer, 08/31/2008
1996 Volvo 850 GLT 4dr Wagon
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Original owner, car has 160k miles. Solid reliable comfortable car. A/C is somewhat weak, have had some issue with the front end alignment. MPG overall is around 21. Plenty of cargo space, with fold down seats and roof rack, I carry all I need. After 12 years, this car runs like it did when new. Engine performance is sound, and the 168 hp five cylinder engine is very reliable. I hope to keep this car for life.

Report Abuse

3.38 out of 5 stars

Ouch!

mkirkland, 12/20/2002
1996 Volvo 850 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I am a single mom with a three year old and know nothing about cars but sure am learning with this one! I have spent so much money on repairs I am told are normal. It is nickle and diming me to death. Love it for the safety and all, but come on - $600 here, $800 there. I'm going broke. It's cool looking but I think I'll go to something with lower repair costs.

Report Abuse
1996 Volvo 850 for sale near you
Showing 2 of 2 listings
See all 2 listings

3.63 out of 5 stars

Money Pit

KBarry, 12/23/2002
1996 Volvo 850 GLT 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is an utter joy to drive and one of the most comfortable cars when it is not in the repair shop. This year alone I've had the rear main seal, ABS controle module and radiator fan go. Very common problems on these cars and Volvo does not stand behind them, especially the brake problems. They claim they have no knowledge of these problems. I have filed a complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety Association for the brake problems. Repairs are astronomical and relaibility is subpar for a luxury vehicle.

Report Abuse

3.38 out of 5 stars

VOLVO

flody, 07/31/2002
1996 Volvo 850 Turbo 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have had a love hate relationship with this vehicle. I love flooring it and wasteing other cars but I hate the constant brake/electrical problems.

Report Abuse

4.38 out of 5 stars

Our Second Volvo

Tankjr1996, 03/01/2002
1996 Volvo 850 GLT 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We also own a '90 240DL (175K mi). I bought this car with 45K mi for $14,900 as a lease return from NC. The ride is tight but not rough. It handles great and feels VERY solid. No problems yet except for a loose radio knob. Even with 80K on it, it still wholesales for $10K. All in all I'm glad I bought it.

Report Abuse
Items per page:
5