Used 1997 Volvo 960 Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Overall Nice
This is my first Volvo. The ride quality and engine performance are very good for a family sedan. I have not had many problems with the engine (after 165,000 miles). The sunroof and interior are rather cheap. The sunroof continuously breaks and leaks, and the interior chips. The brakes have to be replaced about as often as Nascar does theirs. Overall a solid vehicle though, just some minor tweaks.
Reasonably satisfied
Original owner. This is my third Volvo (previous 2 740's). Nagging problems during first few years of ownership - nothing serious, just irritating. I had less problems with the 740's. Mechanical repairs limited to a faulty O2 sensor and a fan installed to prevent a malodorous aroma from airco (high humidity climate). Sun roof repaired twice. The service problems seem to have abated in the last couple of years. Bought extended warranty - so far they are ahead with one year to go.
Solid, comfortable, strong 6 cly power, safe.
In 330,000k I have not major repairs, only keeping up with the maintenance. involved. Ft rotors had to be upgraded, kept warping, added Zimmer disc issue 100 percent gone. Added bigger exhaust and improved airbox, added 0 to 60 to 5.5 seconds.
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This car is a nightmare
I have repaired this car like I was made out of money. The sunroof repaired 4 times. Brakes every 20000 miles, This car cost me 2500 a year to repair. The engine and tranny worked fine. It was millions of little things like oil leaks. air conditioner. I would never buy another Volvo in my life.
An unreliable tank
Unreliable in its first few years, seems to be settling down in middle age. Many similarities to a tank - limited front visibility, rough ride, tight headroom & legroom. An old style Volvo that only a true Volvo lover (which I am not)will like. On the upside, with regular visits to the shop, it will probably be around for another 20 yrs.