Thread: General: - Is it worth fixing?
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Old Nov 27th, 2021, 12:30   #2
Clan
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Originally Posted by wbv View Post
Hello,

I bought a 160k mile 2009 Volvo XC90 Executive D5 Auto two weeks ago from a dealer.

It had an MOT done 2nd November and there were zero dangerous, major, or minor defects noted; and it has been serviced regularly and very recently (with records).

A ClickMechanic in-person inspection gave the car a good rating for its age and mileage, apart from:
  • Squeal noise when starting vehicle and when driving coming from steering pump fluid low (I topped up the power steering fluid (holding reasonably well), and have noticed some spotting on the tarmac that appears to run in a straight line underneath the radiator)
  • There is oil around transmission this needs cleaning then checking for leaks transmission fluid level needs to be checked. Underneath engine driver side near timing area engine oil needs cleaning then checking, front subframe area covered in oil needs cleaning then checking.
  • Vehicle is bouncy shock absorbers worn both both rear. Majority rear suspension components old rusty bushes have age related wear, front subframe bushes have wear
  • Both front fog lights not working, front screen washer jets not spraying, rear wiper motor can hear motor constantly but not moving wiper motor needs checking/replacing
  • Vehicle satnav screen keeps cutting out for a second or two, taking radio and CD with it. With the satnav screen down the radio and CD work without issue
  • Brake fluid due a change

I've been quoted at least £2.5k and told by a mechanic it needs:
  • Steering pump
  • Transmission seals
  • Front crankshaft seal
  • Brake fluid
  • Shock absorbers all round
  • Rear wiper motor (spindle has gone)
  • Rear suspension bushes (the ARB needs to be replaced as one piece for example)
  • Subframe bushes
  • Timing belt
  • Water pump
  • Major service

I got the car for £4.8k (part-ex straight swap, itself needing at least a grand spending on it) and AutoTrader "valued" the XC90 at £5.7k.

Is this cost/work worth it for the vehicle i.e. am I likely to see a good few years and miles out of it/it's a worthwhile investment?

I'm still within 30 days so can return to the dealer if this is a no-go. Naturally, the dealer will be asked to contribute to costs if it is worth fixing.

Thanks in advance,

James
What you have bought is someone else's left over . They have neglected it for years without getting work done ... you are now left to pick up the pieces.

Firstly you need a proper independent check over by a volvo dealer or independent who knows the car .

Yes of course it's worth doing then you are all set for another 100,000 + miles . you bought it cheap you have to expect it to need some maintenance work after 160,000 miles

I always recommend on here when buying an older XC90 to put £2500 aside for getting it up to scratch if necessary . your work will be a little more but I doubt if all they say is true for example bottom crank seals just don't leak unless they have been bodged ...
Its only just had an MOT !! so is it a dodgy MOT test or a Dodgy seller?

The power steering leak is most likely the cooler tubes at the bottom front of the radiator . This will be blowing back over everything else .

If there is no history get the belts and tensioners changed .

You would be better off spending more and buying a well kept car if that list of faults is genuine .
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