Volvo-Forums.com -> General Volvo Non-Model Specific Discussion

... hey guys!

I noticed some of us have not updated their entries in the Garage for sometime now.
As i understood it, the Garage section HERE, in THIS forum, is NOT meant only for performance modifications. Instead its for ANYTHING different that you've done to your vehicle/s. (This forum is not even meant for pure performance reasons anyway...There are many others for that, on the Net...)

As such, dont be shy to update the entries there, no matter how small you think the addition is.

It's just a way to share with the rest of the world what you've done to your rides. That's all.

So, take a photo of each mod you've done, and upload them for the rest of the world to share!

Cheers, and PEACE!

The excerpts below have been derived from
http://www.obdii.com/obdii.html

What is OBD-II?

On-Board Diagnostic systems are in most cars and light trucks on the road today. During the '70s and early 1980's manufacturers started using electronic means to control engine functions and diagnose engine problems. This was primarily to meet EPA emission standards. Through the years on-board diagnostic systems have become more sophisticated. OBD-II, a new standard introduced in the mid-'90s, provides almost complete engine control and also monitors parts of the chassis, body and accessory devices, as well as the diagnostic control network of the car.

http://www.obdii.com/dtcanatomy.html

http://www.obdii.com/dtctypes.html

------------------------

Things to checkout before buying a used car
Derived from the debate/ideas grounds of VOCM (www.vocm.com.my) Forums
First contributor: Agus Vol940 of VOCM
Contributed, compiled, edited and added over time by: ampangbear

In the case that a fully able mechanic could not assist you, then try the following guidelines:

1. Look at the underneath or under carriage at the engine section , watch carefully. If there is a wet oil trace from engine block to pan oil sump ... then avoid the car.

2. Check the engine oil level and conditions by drawing the dipstick oil . If you find that there is an oil sludge sticked to the dipstick between min-max indicating level, means that the car doesn't have a good maintenance practice.

3. Open the oil filler cap . Watch carefully (use flashlight) to the internal components, it should be clean from sludge . If heavy sludge present, then avoid the car.

4. Check the air conditioning system . Start the engine, then switch on the A/C, try to check all the position of A/C control switch - knob - button.

5. Check the steering systems . From stop condition, turn the steering wheel to the maximum right, then move the car. Same procedure to maximum left. If there sounds generated by this activity is rather too loud, then avoid the car. Also check the power-steering tank for leaks, especially at the bracer hose (the hose with the metal U-shaped hose) right in front and below the PS tank.

6. Check for any leakage of engine cooling system . Start the engine at idle speed up to the operating temperature. Open the hood and watch carefully for the leakage of the cooling systems. If you have bypassed the heater-core (a wise thing to do if you are in a HOT country and may never seem to have any real use for it), check the bypass hose. Typically, get a U-hose for the Volvo 940 model. Its actually for oil, but it would last many years if you use it for water/coolant like this.

7. Checking the worn out piston rings . Start the engine at idle speed for about 10 minutes. Try to get a person (or owner) to help you to increase the engine speed up to 4000 RPM while you stay at the back of the car, then release the pedal gas. Watch the gas color out from the tail pipe. If there is Black or Blue Smoke coming out , then avoid the car.

8. Test Driving .

a. Check the gear engagement first for all positions (P-R-N-D- etc etc). If takes longer time to engage, avoid the car.

b. Check the stall speed . Under full load, the stall speed is between 2500 to 3000 RPM.

c. Move the car gently to 60 km/h (20% Open Throttle). Then press the pedal gas to 50%, the gear shall be shifted-down from 4th to 3rd, continue to press the pedal gas to 90%, the gear shall be shifted down from 3rd to 2nd and the car continue to accelerate - and shift-up according to the transmission control unit program at 90% Open Throttle.

If everything OK then you may consider the car.

------------------------------------

I test drove a new 2010 XC-90 yesterday. While I was driving it the "Check Engine" light was on. I finished my drive around the block and when I got back informed the dealer of the light and told him that seeing a "Check Engine" light lit on a vehicle with 200 miles on it made me a bit nervous to buy a Volvo. His reply was that the car needed a fuse changed. In all of my history with cars and trucks I've never hears of a fuse that would cause the "Check Engine" light to come on. I let it slide yesterday since I didn't have time to discuss this, but is it even possible that a fuse would cause this? I like the XC enough (it will be the wife's so she gets final say) but I don't trust the dealer at all at this point.
Anyone have a take on this? Would a fuse cause a "Check Engine"?
Thanks

3 years ago I leased the XC-70. 2 months from the end of my car lease. Volvo Financial Services a called me yesterday and told me that I have to decide what I am going to do.

1. buy out price $28,200
2. extend my lease for up to 6 months
3. return the car
4. lease another vehicle

I tried to talk to them about financing and they told me to go to the dealer that I bought the car from. They would not deal with me over the phone. After I got out of work I went to the dealership and they told me that my car was in good condition and it appeared that there would not be any additional charges if I returned the car at the end of my lease. They tried to get me to lease a new vehicle and I am trying to rein in my spending right now. I want to lower my monthly payments. If I lease something new, I will spend a lot less than the 625 per month that is coming out of my bank account now.

My car is a great car and I found out that I could buy this car for about 475 per month. I have taken great car of the car. I did all of the service work on my car. I did a search to find out how much the XC-70 was worth:

www.motortrend.com/cars/2007/volvo/xc70/pricing/index.html

After I went home and found out that the residual value which they want me to buy my car for is higher than the retail price.

I am a bit mad at the dealership because I feel they are trying to take advantage of me. Anyone have any advice?

I have borght a VCT2000 over ebay. And need some help to do the setup.

I have a V40 from 2000 1.8.
The VADIS program was with the VCT2000.
It's installed and are working great.
I have set the com#1 port to 19200 baud.
When I start up the VADIS it says that "new update of the VCT2000 available.
I'll select next and the VCT2000 starts the update and completes after aprox 5-7 minutes with no problem.
When I try to connect to the car using VADIS it says" car not communicating"
Well, I know the VCT2000 works, because I was able to update it with VADIS
What can be wrong ??

I have tried to run the VCT2000 update program, where I can choose between VCT2000-VADIS, and VCT for S/V40.
I have tried boath with no luck.

I am getting a little frustrated that I have payed a lot of money for a original tool, and can't get it to communicate with my car...

Can anyone help me.

Besr regards,

Deciding on interior trim material to use and could use your opinions. Just covered the b pillars by the front seats. Images seem more gray than real life, but it is the 3M Di Noc vinyl(more of a dry carbon, matte, textured appearance). Extremely easy to work with, but vinyl and fake carbon have a fairly decent amount of hatred(negative) as a material choice. Feel free to voice your opinion, but I have not chosen a material yet. My concern is with either the vinyl or real carbon fiber the pattern and or gloss will make an interior too busy. Other choices include an Alcantara suede or Ultraleather, but those are most likely covering the seats. Exterior of the coupe is silver to give you a reference point.

hey all. as we all know, geely has bought volvo, and i was thinking that we, collectively as a forum (besides all the other volvo sites) should introduce ourselves as 1) volvo owners 2)volvo fans 3) as concerned owners and future owners. i think as a whole we can voice our opinions and maybe get geely to bring volvo back as a viable car. hopefully take care of any problems in their future vehicles and maybe build a volvo that will not be laden with problematic electronics and doodads and get back to making a great car that will be 1) fast 2) handle great 3) not cost an arm and a leg 4) not require a phD in quantum physics to change a fuse, let alone checking the oil. i am in the process of contacting the other volvo forums to see what they think of this idea. if any of our members are also members or moderators in other forums, please let them know. it worked with porsche many years ago. it also brought back the mustang and the camaro. it returned honda to the forefront and bmw was b*tchslapped when it tried to mess with the M division. it is up to us to make sure that the new owners of volvo create new vehicles that we might want to purchase new. and none of that b.s. R line crap either. make an R or just drop the moniker. later all, TGM

I have a '91 Volvo 940 Turbo. WHen I start the car it seems like it idles low. There may be a clog somewhere in the exhaust or intake, i'm not sure. In order to keep the car on I have to rev the engine to keep a higher idle otherwise it will shut off. Although, it doesn't happen all the time. Once I get the car moving it doesn't accelerate until it's warmed up. I will push on the gas pedal and not get any power. And then while the car is left on the problem doesn't arrise again but once I turn off the car and turn it back on it happens all over again. Note, this doesn't happen all the time just a few times a month. I am racking my brain trying to figure out what the problem is and am afraid to get raped at a garage. Any ideas? I've been switching parts out and can't seem to find the issue. Also when this problem happens, my spedometer doesn't register. If anyone has any thoughts please don't hesitate to respond. Thank you!

I have a '91 Volvo 940 Turbo. WHen I start the car it seems like it idles low. There may be a clog somewhere in the exhaust or intake, i'm not sure. In order to keep the car on I have to rev the engine to keep a higher idle otherwise it will shut off. Although, it doesn't happen all the time. Once I get the car moving it doesn't accelerate until it's warmed up. I will push on the gas pedal and not get any power. And then while the car is left on the problem doesn't arrise again but once I turn off the car and turn it back on it happens all over again. Note, this doesn't happen all the time just a few times a month. I am racking my brain trying to figure out what the problem is and am afraid to get raped at a garage. Any ideas? I've been switching parts out and can't seem to find the issue. If anyone has any thoughts please don't hesitate to respond. Thank you!

According to a recent report, Ford's sale of Volvo to Chinese automaker Geely could go through as early as February 8th. Ford and Geely have already announced they are working out details of a plan with the latest rumor indicating that the sale could be for as little as $1.6 billion, with a $1.8 billion asking price more likely.

Ford purchased Swedish automaker Volvo back in 1999 for a staggering $6.45 billion, as it looked to create a European luxury division – which also included Aston Martin, Land Rover and Jaguar. A new corporate strategy has seen Ford sell off all but Volvo, a move which has been slowed by the recent economic downturn.

By offloading Volvo, Ford looks to loose almost $5 billion in a decade as it pursues a more focused brand strategy. By offloading its European brands Ford was able to steer clear of bankruptcy court, a move than has instilled consumer confidence in the brand and seen its sales surge while other automakers watched their sales decline.

More: Report: Volvo Sale to Geely Set for February 8th on AutoGuide.com

Held each year in Las Vegas, Nevada, the SEMA Show is an industry event for the Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association.

Tuners and parts suppliers from across the industry and even from the realm of motorsports come to show off their wares, usually displayed on some sort of eye-catching highly-modified vehicle - be it a muscle car, hot rod or sport compact car.

And let's not forget the increasing presence of mainstream manufacturers like Hyundai, Scion, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, Cadillac, Chrysler and Dodge. Major areas of interest at SEMA include Racing and Performance, Wheels and Tires, as well as Trucks, SUVs and Off-Road vehicles.

More: SEMA Show Preview 2009 on AutoGuide.com

Along with a redesigned version of the C30 hatchback, Volvo also debuted a facelifted C70 model at the Frankfurt Auto Show. While the retractable hard-top convertible isn’t entirely new for 2010, the redesign shows a noticeably different body with design cues from the S60 Concept and the new XC60 crossover. Volvo will also offer the C70 in a new Flamenco Red Pearl paint. Out back, the C70 now also gets LED tail lights.

Inside, a slight dash redesign helps keep things modern and luxurious.

“The Volvo C70 has classic convertible lines and a strong identity of its own,” explains Fedde Talsma, Exterior Chief Designer at Volvo Cars. “We’ve carefully redesigned the front and rear with a more aggressive presence that more closely mimics the new XC60. Inside, we’ve upgraded the materials to enhance the C70’s atmosphere of luxury and enjoyment inside the car.”

As expected, the C70 is incredibly safe. Included in the vehicle’s long list of safety features are roll-over bars that deploy when necessary. Volvo’s Rollover Protection System (ROPS) even uses metal spikes on the bars to break through the car’s rear glass. In addition, side curtain airbags are included, which have been mounted to the doors in the absence of a roof structure.

The C70’s roof opens and closes in a lengthy 30 seconds. One great feature, however, is that the trunk can be opened separately of the roof compartment. This is ideal as so many hard-top convertibles require you to life the incredibly heavy rear clamshell to access the trunk.

As for the engine, it continues to be Volvo’s turbocharged five-cylinder with 227hp and 236 ft-lbs of torque.
More: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Volvo C70 Gets A New Look on AutoGuide.com

Hi everybody!

I am in the unfortunate situation of having to replace my 20 year old Ford Taurus due to an encounter with Bambi this past weekend. I'm looking for recommendations for a good solid Volvo, preferably with lower maintenance issues.

What I am really looking for:

- 4WD or AWD
- Automatic - but no CVT
- A wagon - specifically for storage capacity
- A roof rack (standard on the newer ones, I suppose, but a necessity for me)

The biggest concern I have is the "CVT." I know that some people love it, but I've read a lot about it and the problems and I would really like to avoid it. Is the CVT standard on AWD?

Also, what are common maintenance issues? Should I expect difficulty finding parts or higher prices?

Really I would appreciate any help, my top choice is a Volvo wagon, as long as I can find a decent one without the CVT.

Thank you so much, I look forward to talking more with y'all soon!

I'm looking to find a good & inexpensive second vehicle- And have been shopping around for a Volvo V70. I've had friends that have owned them in the past, and it seems like a good choice as far as size goes- The wagon is PERFECT for hauling the dogs. I've been looking at them in the 1999 - 2003 range. Most of them have pretty high miles at this age- 140K - 190K, which doesn't really worry me too much because I've seen how long they CAN last if cared for.

I've been doing some research into reliability of the cars. It seems pretty good, but I also hear some bad things.

*Turbos- I've heard mixed opinions on the Turbos- Some say to avoid them at all costs because they WILL break down, others say not to worry. What's the deal here?

*AWD- A number of the cars that I have been looking at have had AWD. I kind of like that- It doesn't snow too much where I live, but when it does, AWD is a plus, since the roads are not maintained. I realize that AWD means more parts, more parts means more money, but are there significant problems with the AWD systems that I should be worried about?

Anything else that I should really consider before buying one of these?

I have actually located about 6 different v-70's in the same year range within about 80 or so miles of where I live, so I have a good selection. They range in price from $3k to $6k...

I plan to take my purchase in to a knowledgeable volvo mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection, just to be sure...

-Andrew

After the previous topic here about the previous Volvo high mileage medallions, and the fact that Volvo now only offers window stickers, I thought I would consider making some medallions (or attempting to make some).

As the original types were stamped out and painted, what I will be doing is slightly different. I will be cutting them out on a water jet, which basically creates a 2D object (not raised or embossed medallions as Volvo once did), and they will basically be bare metal or possibly painted/anodized/powder coated.

In order to create something with a little style and class to it (of course to fit a Volvo), I may consider making them out of a couple parts to recreate some color and depth to the items.

After a little bit of searching I have only found 3 decent pictures of original Volvo medallions (100k and 200k), and the two 100k medallions were of different designs. Neither of which, personally, I found that great looking.

So, I thought I would put up a possible call for some artistic types who may be here to design some possible ideas for a nice looking medallion. Any type of picture file would work fine for my initial purposes, and posting ideas in a reply would be great for others to see, but if you have problems posting them or finding a place to host them, just send me a private message and I will get with you so that I can host it for you.

My intent is to get several design ideas, and then put up something for the members who are interested in them to vote on their prefered designs. At which point I will get to work in designing it to me made and see what comes of it.

For any design that may be put up please include some basics, such as:

- Overall outside dimension
- Means of attaching the medallion (folding tabs, adhesive mount, etc).

Most initial products, whenever I may actually get time to make some, will be prototypes, out of whatever material I have laying around (most likely aluminum, although we have some stainless steel laying around). Backings can be of various materials, from colored lexan and other plastics we have laying about. All prototypes will be done from material I have now, so I dont have to go buy anything.

If things go well and they turn out in a manner people would actually like, I will work up making them available to others, with any costs involved to just cover materials necessary and any other coloring expenses that may be incured (shipping as well). I;m not looking to do this as a means of profit, nor am I really looking to do this in any mass quantities, but rather to help fill a possible niche of those I have noticed have been asking about them but can no longer get them.

On a side note, if anyone has any of the original medallions, please provide pictures if you can and basic dimensions for comaprison to any new designs or if people find they still prefer the original look over something entirely new.

Thanks to any who wish to participate.

Ford Motor Co. and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely) have reached a general agreement on the terms of a sale that would see Ford’s loss making Volvo unit sold to the Chinese automaker. An initial agreement is set to be signed in the first quarter of 2010, with the transaction complete in Q2.

Ford said in a statement that the sale, “would ensure Volvo has the resources, including the capital investment, necessary to further strengthen the business and build its global franchise, while enabling Ford to continue to focus on and implement its core ONE Ford strategy.”

While a general agreement has been reached, some details still need to be worked out and Geely is still working to secure funding from the Chinese government. Ford has said that it does not intend to keep a stake in Volvo once the sale is completed.

The sale of Volvo would mean the complete dismantling of Ford’s premium group of automaker, which at once point also included Aston Martin and Jaguar Land Rover. It is thought that the sale of those entities helped Ford avoid filing for bankruptcy protection.

Meanwhile, rival American automaker General Motors has had far less luck in selling off its brands, with sales of both Hummer and Saab pending (but constantly in doubt), while the domestic Saturn brand is now scheduled to be eliminated after a deal to sell it to the Penske Automotive Group fell through.

More: Report: Ford, Geely Reach Agreement on Sale of Volvo on AutoGuide.com

Volvo's entire product lineup is in a state of change as the Swedish automaker works to update models with new curvy designs inspired by the brand's revolutionary XC60 luxury crossover. The latest two models to receive the stylistic upgrade are the C70 convertible and C30 hatchback.

The C30 gets a new front end with a new bumper, grille and headlights. There's also a new rear end using colored panels, as opposed to black plastic ones, while on T5 models large 90mm exhaust tips will be included. A new Orange Flame Metallic paint job (shown here) will also be offered, as will white wheels. In addition a sport chassis will be offered with stiffer bushings, a tighter steering ratio (by 10 percent) and springs that are 30 percent stiffer as well.

As for the C70, it gets a similar redesign and will now be offered in a new Flamenco Red Pearl paint (shown here). Out back, the C70 now also gets LED tail lights. Inside, a slight dash redesign helps keep things modern and luxurious.

Along with updating the rest of its product lineup over the next few years Volvo has said it will introduce diesel engines as well as diesel-hybrids to North America in an effort to meet the new 2016 CAFE standard of 35.5 mpg. Volvo has already announced a plug-in hybrid vehicle will arrive in Europe in 2012 and we're likely to see diesel-powered models (which are big sellers for Volvo in Europe) soon. In Europe Volvo now offers its new C30 1.6D DRIVe diesel model, which gets an incredible 74.3 mpg.

More: LA 2009: Refreshed C30, C70 Bow in Los Angeles As Volvo Plans Hybrid and Diesel Engines on AutoGuide.com

For more coverage of the 2009 LA Auto Show visit AutoGuide.com

Hello,

My name is Dave - I just registered on this forum - and the reason is that I'm trying to get some information on some old catalogues I have. They are from Volvo, they're all parts catalogues, all for the different 1967 models, and they are in hardbound binders with metal bindings. There is one however that is for the P120, P130, and P220 (B18) that has a round symbol of a persons bust on the cover and says " AGRIPPA" as well as " Made in Sweden" and AB CALCO STOCKHOM " This catalogue is also in a metal clad binder. My question is that I'm wondering if there is any significance to this one that's different from the rest. They all contain the same type of material - just the covers are different .

Thanks,
Dave

Ford's sale of it's Swedish Volvo brand to Chinese automaker Geely has moved one step closer to completion with news that the two companies have reached an agreement on intellectual property rights issues.

The agreement will see Geely take over control of all technology developed exclusively by Volvo, and still allow Volvo to use any Ford technologies that are vital to developing the brand as a safety leader and in helping it meet increasingly strict environmental regulations.

The step is seen a a huge move forward as it had potential to become a roadblock. Earlier this year the sale of GM's Opel unit to China's Beijing Auto was reported to have fallen through due to intellectual roperty rights issues.

Just last month Ford named Geely as the preferred bidder for Volvo, a deal that is reported to be worth roughly $2 billion, significantly less than the $6.45 billion Ford spent to acquire Volvo in 1999.

Geely has said that it's plans for the Volvo brand include doubling the automaker's production caacity, with huge sales increases projected in Geely's home market of China. Geely has also said it expects to add several new premium models to the Swedish automaker's lineup.

More: Report: Sale of Volvo One Step Closer as Ford, Geely Reach Agreement on Intellectual Property Rights on AutoGuide.com

We are excited to announce that we will now be offering a limited lifetime warranty on ALL FCP Groton products. By ensuring excellence through quality and customer satisfaction, our loyal customer base is only growing during these tough times, allowing us to move to the forefront of the automotive industry.

FCP Groton provides a Limited Lifetime Warranty for our automotive products REGARDLESS of the manufacturer's warranty. Should our product fail to be in good working order during the warranty period, FCP Groton will refund the price of the product given that the guidelines have been met and provided that the product has not been subjected to abuse, misuse, accident, disaster or non-FCP Groton authorized modification or repair. FCP Groton's limited lifetime warranty does not transfer with the change of vehicle ownership. FCP Groton will not warranty products for cosmetic reasons (rust, color fade, etc). Email us at warranty@fcpgroton.com for more info, or visit warranty.fcpgroton.com.

You've heard about O'Reilly or NAPA extending lifetime warranty on their brake pads and discs. In fact, you may have also heard of other retailers claiming lifetime warranty on non-functioning parts excluding brakes, engine, tune up, or timing. FCP Groton is providing a lifetime warranty on ALL FCP Groton products- no exclusions! Simply meet our requirements and your purchase will be covered for the life of your vehicle! Email us at warranty@fcpgroton.com for more info, or visit warranty.fcpgroton.com.

Instead of extending traditional discounts on “Black Friday” or “Cyber Monday”, FCP Groton has decided to dedicate an entire week to special discounts and savings which we are calling “Cyber Week”. “Cyber Week” at FCP Groton will run from Tuesday, November 24th to Tuesday, December 1st, and we will be offering 15% off all purchases and free shipping over $99 by using coupon code “CYBERSHOT,” which is our largest discount at the company to date. In conjunction with the new Lifetime Warranty program we have just rolled out, we feel FCP Groton can provide the BEST value while giving consumers the HIGHEST confidence in our products. If you don’t see the product you are looking for at http://www.fcpgroton.com please don’t hesitate to speak with our customer service representatives by calling toll free 877-634-0063. We have access to well over 1 million products. For more information on our lifetime warranty program, please visit http://warranty.fcpgroton.com.

Ford's preferred Chinese bidder to purchase the automaker's Swedish Volvo unit has announced a plan that would see Volvo doubt its sales in the coming years. Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, which owns and operated Chinese automaker Geely, has said it believes it could boost total sales to close to one million vehicles globally, up significantly from the roughly 400,000 units it currently sells. Included in that increase would be drastic growth in China, where Geely plans to build a factory capable of producing as many as 300,000 vehicles. Geely's plan would see Volvo sell as many as 200,000 units in China, up significantly from the 12,600 units it sold last year.

Also included in Geely's plan would be the introduction of two or three new vehicles, which would be larger, more luxurious and more expensive than much of Volvo's current offerings.

In the short term, Geely would look at updating Volvo's Swedish manufacturing facilities.

The reported price for Volvo is $2 billion, but the deal has yet to be settled with some issues (including intellectual property rights) yet to be resolved.

Geely's plan for Volvo is in many ways the opposite of a reported plan by Koenigsegg for Sweden's "other" automaker, Saab. That plan would see Saab sell fewer vehicles than it currently does but at much higher prices.

More: Report: Volvo Bidder Geely Planning to Double Swedish Automaker's Sales on AutoGuide.com

Ford named Chinese automaker Geely Holding Co. as its preferred bidder for Volvo.

"Ford believes Geely has the potential to be a responsible future owner of Volvo and to take the business forward while preserving its core values and the independence of the Swedish brand," said Ford Chief Financial Officer Lewis Booth in a statement.

FoMoCo. announced it will step up negotiations with Geely, though it's still far too early to say any deal will be complete any time soon. Ford said it will have "detailed and focused" negotiations with Geely, but no final decisions have been made.

Volvo has been on the block since December but it could still be months before any deal is finalized.

Part of the hold-up on any sale is how closely tied Volvo is to Ford's operations. Ford says it does not intend to hold onto a share of Volvo but is open to continue collaborating with the Swedish brand after any sale.

No financial terms were disclosed, though reports have them pegged closer to $2 billion, much less than the $6.45 billion Ford spent to acquire Volvo in 1999.

More: Report: Ford Focuses on Geely as Buyer for Volvo on AutoGuide.com

For several months Chinese automaker Geely has been touted as the front runner in the bid for Volvo, but now a U.S.-based group has emerged with a credible offer.

Calling itself the Crown consortium, the group consists of several private equity firms and is fronted by two industry experts: Michael Dingman, a former Ford director; and Shamel Rushwin who held executive positions at both Ford and Chrysler.

Crown is also seeking additional funding from Swedish investors, which it hopes will help garner favor with the Swedish car maker. It is also seen as a sign of good faith that Crown wants to keep Volvo in its native country.

Crown's offer is, however, not as significant as Geely's almost $2 billion bid, but in many ways dealing with the U.S. group would be easier due to the lack of Chinese government involvement. Both companies are reported to have plans that would front an additional $3 billion after their initial purchase price.

Ford is rumored to be preparing to make a choice within the next few weeks, after which it would agree to hammer out the final details of a deal with the preferred party.

More: Report: U.S. Group Emerges as Rival to China's Geely in Bid for Volvo on AutoGuide.com

At the Frankfurt Auto Show, Volvo officially unveiled a sporty R-Design package for the XC60, giving the brand’s progressive luxury crossover an even more appealing look.

Outside the R-Design model gets a new “silk metal” finish for the grille, fog lamp surrounds, mirrors and a silk metal R-Design badge. The side skirts will have an aluminum look, while the rear skid place will be chrome plated with chrome twin tailpipes. The lower body panels will be paint-matched, giving the crossover a ground-hugging look, even though the ride height remains the same as on the standard vehicle. A set of 18-inch wheels will come standard, although buyers can choose to upgrade to a 20-inch set.

Inside the XC60 R-Design gets new sport seats with unique upholstery with a choice of two color combos and R-Design emblems. Also included is an R-Design sports steering wheel, aluminum sport pedals and blue gauges.

The drive of the XC60 R-Design will also be more engaging due to stiffer springs, more responsive shocks and tighter steering.

The XC60 R-Design will be offered in seven colors including one exclusive color (shown above) Passion red.

More: Frankfurt 2009: Volvo Delivers on Promise of XC60 R-Design on AutoGuide.com

Held once every two years the Frankfurt Auto Show IAA (Internationale Automobil Ausstellung) is the largest in the industry. This year's show promises a long list of production cars, concept cars and alternative fuel models like hybrids and electric cars. Highlights from this year's show include the expected unveilings of the Audi R8 Spyder, Mercedes SLS AMG, 2010 Porsche Turbo, 2010 Porsche GT3 RS, Rolls-Royce Ghost, Lexus LF-Ch Concept, Toyota Prius PHV Concept, MINI Coupe Concept, Ferrari 458 Italia, Maserati GranCabrio, Hyundai Tucson, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept and more.

More: Frankfurt Auto Show 2009 on AutoGuide.com

Tomorrow, if you pick up a copy of USA Today or The Washington Post, you're likely to see Volvo's full page ad, calling for legislation on “distracted driving.” The ads come on the very day that the U.S. Department of Transportation begins its two day Distracted Driving Summit to discuss the issue. Along with senior DOT staff, the summit will also host elected officials, safety advocates, academics and law enforcement representatives. Volvo, however, is not a participant, although the company that has built a reputation for vehicles that are, above all else, safe, obviously has something to say on the matter.

"With the proliferation of cell phone use and text messaging while behind the wheel, distracted driving is on the rise and is a leading cause of traffic accidents," said Doug Speck, Volvo Cars North America president and CEO. "Reasonable laws that help focus a driver's attention on the road will help reduce collisions, just as laws to enforce seat belt use have helped save lives. By holding this summit, the DOT is demonstrating its commitment to resolve an ever-growing safety issue."

Along with numerous safety innovations throughout the decades, more recently Volvo prides itself on electronic systems such as lane departure warning or even the new "City Safety" system which debuted on the XC60 (above), that can actually stop the vehicle when a collision is detected.

Currently only seven states have banned cell phone use (without a hands-free device) while driving, while 18 states have laws against texting while driving.

More: Report: Volvo Buys Ads In Major Papers Calling for 'Distracted Driving' Legislation on AutoGuide.com

Hey Guys
I am about to buy a certified S80 3.2 and would like your advice on pricing. I'd REALLY appreciate your help.

FYI, here's vehicle & quote info:

- Model: 2007 S80 3.2 (Certified/Silver)
- Mileage: 17,300
- Option: Only Weather pkg
- Dealer: Park Place Volvo (Dallas, TX)
- CarFax: Clean one owner (no fleet or rental)
- Condition: Perfectly clean (overnight test-drive)

- Original internet price: $23,993
- Offer price: $23,563 (KBB/NADA: $25,000)
- Final price w/ tax & etc: $25,289

FYI,I am planning to make a down payment of $20,000 and financing the rest.

My questions are:

#1: Is it good deal with offered pricing, $23,563? (KBB/NADA: $25,000)
#2: Should I ask for more?
(I only asked for a better price ONCE, and it is the price the sales guy gave me. Approx. $500 less than listing price. I didn't ask more.)
#3: Do you recommend this model?
(As mid-30 years old guy, I never imagined myself buying Volvo, but now changed after giving it an overnight test drive)

Thank you for your help in advance and very excited to become a part of this forum!

Volvo to chose the Frankfurt Auto Show to debut a mid-cycle makeover for the C30 premium hatchback.

“Since its introduction in 2006, the Volvo C30 has become highly appreciated for its unique appearance. This applies in particular to the rear. With the new front, it feels as though everything has fallen neatly into place and that the car’s entire personality has been boosted to an entirely new level,” says Daniel Backman, Product Manager for the new Volvo C30.

We’re not sure we agree with the comments about the car’s back-end, but the new front certainly adds a bit more style to the C30, helping it appeal to its intended young-buyer audience. Much of the design cues have been taken from Volvo’s progressive new XC60 crossover.

The new front end features not only a new bumper and grille, but also new headlights.

A new rear end is also a part of the redesign, using colored panels, as opposed to black plastic ones, while on T5 models large 90mm exhaust tips will be included. A new Orange Flame Metallic paint job will also be offered, as will white wheels.

More: Frankfurt 2009: Volvo C30 Gets Sporty New Look for 2010 on AutoGuide.com

Hi,

I'm new to the forum so my apology if this question has already been asked in the past. My wife and I live in California and I'm thinking about purchasing a 2008-2009 XC70 for her when the lease on her BMW will end. There is a possibility that we will move to Europe and I wanted to see if it's possible to switch the speed display on the XC70 from MPH to KPH if we were to take the car with us? I didn't pay much attention to this when we test drove the XC70, but I think that the display was only in MPH. That's a little different since both of our current cars display speed in MPH and KPH.

Thanks in advance for your input on this!

I'm trying to make a decision on a bike rack but my local Volvo doesn't have the OEM version so I can look. I hope someone can tell me about how it functions. I just ordered the wing crossbars for my V50 and now I'm looking at the Volvo OEM fork mounted rack. I like that it has a clean look and I understand that I'd have to buy a "T" adapter that fits in the crossbar grooves.

What I'd like to know: is the bike AND the rack are reasonably secure to the crossbars?

Also, can the rack be removed from the crossbars easily? I might not want to drive around all the time with a rack but I'm guessing that I have to remove the crossbars to slide the rack out of the crossbars, is that true? My other option is the Yakima Forklift that just clamps onto the crossbars - that one might be easier to remove when not in use.

Thanks for any insight.

ok so to start off a little bit about me, i started entering drift events at the age of 15 with my 85 corolla gts. the current "mod" list is

cut springs
no emissions bs
2.25 inch str8 pipe from the down pipe back with a glasspack muffler
k&n knock off filter
fully gutted

as you can tell not much is done to the car YET heres just a vid of a couple months back or whatever at a spot http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XuyxnP8iA7A

the car needs to be modified badly, it lacks power and it tends to under steer like a B*tch. i am planning on getting coil overs for the car probably the greddy's they make for this car. right after i plan on doing a transplant for more power. i wanted to stay with something twin cam and 4 cylinder that would make power without throwing off the weight balance with something heavy that would weigh it down. i considered turbocharging the stock bluetop 4age motor to 10psi on stock internals but it all seems like a headache. After some extensive research i found that the B204GT would be my best bet due to how sick these motors are and how much power they can make especially for a car like mine that weighs roughly 2000 pounds. i have never owned a volvo before but i do understand that these motors only came in Italy.

My question to you guys is how hard are these motors to get a hold of and about what kind of price am i looking at getting one (hopefully not an arm and a leg.) how would i go about finding one of these and i guess just point me in the general direction if you guys can.

-Nasser

Ford's sale of Swedish automaker Volvo to China's Geely Automotive may start next month.

According to a report in Swedish business daily Dagens Industri, Geely is the only company to actually submit a competitive bid. In July Ford reps commented that the automaker was discussing with several potential buyers.

Ford has reportedly set the a deadline of this year to sell-off its money-losing Volvo unit, which it put up for sale just before the economy turned sour. In order to solidify the deal by then, Ford would need to begin a preliminary sell-off by October.

With the economy turning around, however, and Ford profiting off the struggles of not just GM and Chrysler, but also foreign giants like Toyota, it may not be so eager to take just any bid to part with Volvo.

More: Report: Volvo Sale to China's Geely Pegged for October on AutoGuide.com

		Time is now: 18th March 2010 - 02:24 AM
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