1997 XC70 AWD spec

[mistrom]

Have seen a used XC70 AWD, price is very good, 118K miles.

First registered November 1997.

Just wondered if anyone could help with the spec for this model.

Were there any problems with this model?

Thanks

Tom

[KanataXC]

Well, I'm surprised noone has chimed in yet. I have a 98 S70 and a 2000 V70XC, so I'll give you my perspective. When I was looking for a XC, I wanted to get the newer models (99-00) that I assumed had some minor improvements, what I didn't count on was the ETM.

Confirming my understanding with the press releases at bottom, the XC was first announced in Jan 1997, as the 1998 models, where they went from 850 to S/V70 designation.

The biggest thing I can think of offhand that they don't mention is that I believe the 98 models (incl XC) still have the throttle cable (I know the S70 does), vs the newer troublesome ETM that you will see so much about here. So, at least in that respect you would be ahead, although I did have a slight problem with my throttle cable once (on S70). It jumped out of the groove in the throttle when I tapped the pedal to hard in cold weather (warming up in the driveway where throttle felt stuck a little, but likely just warming up). It was very easy to fix this myself, and doesn't seem likely it could happen when in gear (which would be the safety concern).

Also, having new keys or FOBs made is much easier and cheaper on the 98s, as there is no immobilizer (though that is a nice enhancement). With that kind of mileage on a XC, you would want to make sure the transmission and AWD were in good shape. Would be good to have it looked at by someone familiar with Volvos, and check for any leaks in the differential or angle/bevel gear or near turbo (bound to have some small ones).

Of course the the maintenance records would be key, and if the price is nice for a well maintained XC then that is great. I paid a reasonable price for my 00XC last summer (C$21k) with 100k kms, but we have seen some really great prices posted here that people were getting in the US (southern US if I remember correctly).

In 1999, I believe they changed to hydraulic belt tensioner, allowing the higher replacement interval, so for 1998 you would want to make sure it was changed around 70k miles or so (incl tensioner).

Check that AC is working ok, as that can be a major expense to fix if it is evap or condensor. Also have someone look at the engine mounts to see if they are shredded or cracked (2 or 3 of them I think).

Check for uneven tire wear or signs of under/over inflation, which may hint at future VC problem in the AWD if not even.

Looking at these press releases for 98/99/00, it seems there were some minor AirBag and Transmission improvements, and things like HomeSafe lighting and the immobilizer.

1998 replacement interval for timing belt is lower, but tensioner may be cheaper I think.
http://apps.volvocars.us/ownersdocs/...intenance.html
3) For proper functioning of the vehicle and its emission control systems, CCC the timing belt and tensioner must be replaced every 70,000 miles

Notice the higher interval here for 99 (and 00).
http://apps.volvocars.us/ownersdocs/...intenance.html
3) For proper functioning of the vehicle and its emission control systems, the timing belt and tensioner must be replaced every 105,000 miles (168,000).

You can find all the owner's manuals and maintenance info etc for various years and models here.
http://www.volvocars.us/_Tier2/Owners/Library.htm

Some info on the various model years (note that XC was called V70 XC AWD from 98-00, then changed to XC70 in 2001+, subtle difference, but sometimes useful when searching for info).

1998 V70 features
http://apps.volvocars.us/ownersdocs/.../1998_v70.html

1999 changes
http://apps.volvocars.us/ownersdocs/...release_3.html
http://apps.volvocars.us/ownersdocs/...release_8.html

2000 changes
http://apps.volvocars.us/ownersdocs/...elease_12.html

[XC70Geo]

KanataXC,
thank you, you've given great info for everyone.

[mistrom]

Thanks very much for the reply.

Have now bought the car.

Thanks