1995 Volvo 850 used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Fuel leak9 owner complaints, usually around 117,900 miles

  Watch for fuel smells, hard starting and the check engine light, and make sure the fuel gauge works.

• Tire blowout or tread separation5 owner complaints

  Check the tire age (the DOT date on the sidewall), the tread depth and any uneven wear.

• Windshield wiper failure5 owner complaints

  Test the wipers, washers, defrosters and every window. Look for chips or cracks in the windshield.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 04V368000, Jul 30, 2004
• EquipmentRecall number 95V050000, Mar 10, 1995

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Shipping and Handling of Volvo Lithium-ion 48V Mild Hybrid Battery to Global Battery Solutions (GBS)Feb 3, 2022
• This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Service 2.0 Software & Total Upgrade ReminderAug 5, 2020
• Battery Charger/maintainer requirementJun 23, 2020
• This is a Technical Journal: Swapping control modules from vehicle to vehicle for diagnostics should be...Nov 19, 2019
• Software Installation Policy changes.Nov 9, 2019
• This is a Service Product Journal: Information NoticeJun 5, 2019

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.