960 Estate... Thinking of buying tomorrow...please help ???

Hi, Hello everyone, new to all this volvo stuff, normally a Rover man Have seen a Very nice 960 Est, 1996 N reg, 3.0 24v. Met Dark Green, Full Black Leather etc, etc. It's only had 1 previous owner and has done 87000 mile. It's Automatic. The only couple of things i've noticed are A) Front bumper lower trim is loose. B) The bonnet hinges seem really stiff. C) there is a VERY tiny blow from the centre of the exhaust. D) the towball and socket mounting plate are extremely rusty. Are these common faults ? should i be looking more carefully ? and is there anything i should look for ? Many thanks in advance Phil.

do a search of faq 900/700 series. also google turbo bricks and you will get another forum. People there are not finding these to be very reliable and are not recommending them above the 940 series. From memory the research I did 2 years ago into them recommended staying away from them. Problems with coolant blocks, timing belts etc.

Hi Pablo, As a general rule the six cyl white block engines (960/S&V90) need fastidious maintenance. Check the service history is complete, or that the current owner is looking after it (receipts or service bills). The cam belt should have been changed at approx 70k miles. If this hasn't been done think very carefully. If you really like the car, get the belt done immediately, or negotiate that its done before the sale. If it breaks the engines a goner. As stated, check the FAQ, also read up on By MY 96 the early block issues motorhommer mentions had been ironed out, the timing belt is a point to bear in mind though. Most would agree that the 4 cyl redblocks (940/740) are pretty much bullet proof mechanically and take a lot more neglect. I've owned both and prefer the six cyl for smooth power and luxury, but at the end of the day its down to taste and budget! Post back and let us know how you got on. Cheers, Paul.

Hello, I've had a 960 1995 M reg for two years now and while I have had to spend some money on it most of the things were to be expected on a 12 year old car. Timing belt change is at 70 K, also change the tensioners at the same time. Rear suspension may be a bit weak making the car sit a bit low, but it is probably no touble unless you want everything perfect. Fuel consumption is not too good, expect 20/22 MPG On the plus side you will get a very smooth engine with bags of power 204 BHP. Incidentally, the blocks were only a problem up to 1995, they were pourous. Good luck, sounds a good buy. Minstrel

I might be completely wrong in saying this but have a good look at the front of the car to see if it has been damaged. The loose bumper trim might indicate its been badly refitted and the bonnet might be stiff if the hinges are damaged. It could just be that the car hasn't been used much recently, a lot of cars will only ever get their bonnets opened at the annual service so that would explain the stiff bonnet, especially as the mileage is so low.