Hi all,
Has anyone had to get a replacement or major repair on an 850 parking brake? I'm looking at an older 850 with a lot of miles; it's cheap and running well, but the parking brake doesn't work, and I know on some models that can be a hugely expensive repair. I don't know the exact nature of the problem (going to see the car tomorrow), but does anyone know the range of what I might have to spend to repair an emergency brake, best- to worst- case scenario? I don't have the know-how or work space for DIY so I'd have to take it somewhere.

If you have any other thoughts on the advisability of buying a '94 850, non-turbo, stick, with 200K miles, I'd love all the advice I can get! It's supposedly in great shape (again, I'll learn more tomorrow), but that's a whole lot of miles... It's only $1400, but still, I'm hesitant.

Thanks!

first off, carfax it. when was the timing belt done. at what mileage was the oil changed? when was last tune up? and before that? check abs/trac light.. if on, needs a new module. not expensive, but drop price. ebrake might only be adjustment. prob run about 4 bills +/- with professional, not dealer. w/ dealer add another 2 bills. probably. good luck and offer 1000.00 then play. if you like the car, go for it. if you are not sure, you'll find others w/turbos, etc. your call. but check for regular maintainance, that is the key to lengevity of volvos.

Parking brake fix is not that expensive. But before that, you can just tighten the screw in the center armrest console for more bite.

Just had the E-brake repaired, it was $375 including parts. It was a total overhaul on that. It's a 95 850 w/ 140k miles.

Agreed on the belts- changing them is critical in this model.

Also check if sunroof opens properly, driver's seat motor movement is operational and if the fan works at each and every setting: 1-2-3 and 4 as well.

See what the carpet looks like in the front seats under any mats.

Just a few extra thoughts in addition to the big mechanical items already mentioned.

USD375???

Wah, that's expensive.
:)
Sorry about that, dude.