Help with our car...

[JoeyMitch]

Hey guys. We have a 2002 Volvo S80. Had the ****** rebuilt last year and all service done. Well last night we went out and left the car locked in the parking lot with nothing on. Come back 90 minutes later to start it and click, dead battery. Call AAA and they jump it for us and test it and all seems better. So we're on the parkway and as we're pulling off the exit, all lights dim and the screen says "Brake failure pull over safely". Then everything shuts off including headlights and mile gauge. Hit the gas and nothing happens and engine dies and we barely coast into a parking lot. Everything's dead. Call my grandpa and he comes out to jump us and starts right up with cables and as soon as we disconnect them it dies. I know after that it's the alternator. No biggie. Keep jumping and charging until we get to a friends shop and now find out theres something wrong with A/C, brakes, alternator (obviously) and just seems like there's a lot of problems. Even though there are only 156,000 miles, it doesn't run like it used to. Our KBB value is $2,990.

Getting to the point, my mom wants a new car. SUV is her new vehicle of choice. Please help us choose with these options below. Pros, cons, etc.

-2012 GMC Acadia, 25,000 miles, 5 year 100,000mile warranty, about $32k.

-2012 Buick Enclave, 27,000 miles, same warranty, $28k

-Chevy Traverse (No Specs yet) most likely 2012 with about same mileage and warranty

-GMC Terrain (No Specs yet) most likely 2012 with about same mileage and warranty

-Or do we get our Volvo repaired?

We really would like 3rd row seats as well.

Please do not even suggest Ford because we have a 2002 Ford Explorer with 112,000 miles that has been through 3 transmissions, roof leaks, paint chipping, fading paint, and now the service light and O/D off light is on. This Ford has been nothing but trouble so please don't even suggest!!!

Please help us. We are really in a bind. Thanks!!

 

[joedodge]

Stay away from the Acadia and enclave we always have them in the shop either water pumps, transmissions with blown wave plates, or steering rack housings squeeking all kinda issues. The terrains are really nice lil SUV though very few issues spend the money and get the v6

 

[jd_1138]

The Acadia and Enclave are the same car as the Traverse underneath. so if the Acadia/Enclave are bad the Traverse would be also. My MIL has a 5 year old Traverse and has had no major problems. But the Traverse seems to have a blind spot near the rear C-pillar. The Acadia and Enclave seem to have better designs.

Maybe check out the Toyota Highlander and also the Kia SUV's (10 year warranty). The Kia Sorento is 24k brand new.

Your Volvo with 154k miles is going to start developing problems perhaps, or there's a chance you could fix it and get 100k trouble free miles from it. It's a **** shoot, sort of. If you like the safety of a warranty, I'd buy new or certified.

The Highlander is 29k brand new. They look nice and are 7 passenger. The "shoreline blue" is a nice color.

 

[celticbhoy]

I had the same thing happen to me with my Mazda 323 and you know what it turned out to be? Loose battery cables... Haven't driven one myself, but i've heard the Subaru Forester and Tribeca's are really nice.

 

[NHBandit]

It's not charging. Most likely you need an alternator. Unless you've been having problems with the other things already the garage you took it to is trying to charge you for things you probably don't need. If those are your tools in your avatar then go to a salvage yard, get a $50 used alternator & change it yourself. It's not hard. Did you tell the guy the "brake failure" light had come on when the car died ? If so you set yourself up to be sold service you likely don't need. The light came on BECAUSE it died.

 

[JoeyMitch]

Yes those are my tools in the picture lol. I am only 15 and my parents do not trust me with their car. I have 10 Snap On ratchets but I work on boats not cars lol. I also think the lights came on because everything was dying.

 

[celticbhoy]

Watch a youtube video lol. If I remember, the alternator is right near the top of the engine, so it's very easy to get to and replace. It's good practice.

 

[NJHandyGuy]

possible sepr belt loosened up that would explain altertaor and lights

 

[NJHandyGuy]

make sure the belt is still there

 

[JoeyMitch]

Checked the belt and still there. I would have no problem doing it. The only thing is that my parents do not trust a 15 year old kid with more in his toolbox than the car is worth but not nearly as much in his brain. Like I said, I've done a few boat alternators and almost everything else but they don't trust me working on their car lol.

 

[celticbhoy]

Let me talk to them haha

Back to your original question though, definitely look into Subaru's. Very reliable, very efficient, parts are cheapish, great vehicles overall though.

 

[metaleltr]

Checked the belt and still there. I would have no problem doing it. The only thing is that my parents do not trust a 15 year old kid with more in his toolbox than the car is worth but not nearly as much in his brain. Like I said, I've done a few boat alternators and almost everything else but they don't trust me working on their car lol.

I hate to hear that buddy, I'm 17, Iv'e been helping my dad do anything and everything to our cars since I could walk.

 

[cburnscrx]

Hey guys. We have a 2002 Volvo S80. Had the ****** rebuilt last year and all service done. Well last night we went out and left the car locked in the parking lot with nothing on. Come back 90 minutes later to start it and click, dead battery. Call AAA and they jump it for us and test it and all seems better. So we're on the parkway and as we're pulling off the exit, all lights dim and the screen says "Brake failure pull over safely". Then everything shuts off including headlights and mile gauge. Hit the gas and nothing happens and engine dies and we barely coast into a parking lot. Everything's dead. Call my grandpa and he comes out to jump us and starts right up with cables and as soon as we disconnect them it dies. I know after that it's the alternator. No biggie. Keep jumping and charging until we get to a friends shop and now find out theres something wrong with A/C, brakes, alternator (obviously) and just seems like there's a lot of problems. Even though there are only 156,000 miles, it doesn't run like it used to. Our KBB value is $2,990.

Getting to the point, my mom wants a new car. SUV is her new vehicle of choice. Please help us choose with these options below. Pros, cons, etc.

-2012 GMC Acadia, 25,000 miles, 5 year 100,000mile warranty, about $32k.

-2012 Buick Enclave, 27,000 miles, same warranty, $28k

-Chevy Traverse (No Specs yet) most likely 2012 with about same mileage and warranty

-GMC Terrain (No Specs yet) most likely 2012 with about same mileage and warranty

-Or do we get our Volvo repaired?

We really would like 3rd row seats as well.

Please do not even suggest Ford because we have a 2002 Ford Explorer with 112,000 miles that has been through 3 transmissions, roof leaks, paint chipping, fading paint, and now the service light and O/D off light is on. This Ford has been nothing but trouble so please don't even suggest!!!

Please help us. We are really in a bind. Thanks!!

The GM products are all the same...the Acadia, Enclave and Traverse are basically the same car. The Terrain is a different vehicle entirely, but smaller. If you're willing to go smaller, then get the Terrain, it's cheaper and you'll get better gas mileage. Personally I wouldn't buy any of them, as I think you can do much better with a different manufacturer at that price point.

In Indianapolis, I'd recommend a Hyundia Santa Fe (or the upcoming Santa Fe XL). 20 year, 200k warranty at Butler Hyundai! In addtion, they're much better machines than the GM's you listed.

http://autos.ca.msn.com/reviews/2013/2013-hyundai-santa-fe-xl-first-drive#page=2


*not a GM hater, I own a 96 Suburban

 

[JoeyMitch]

I hate to hear that buddy, I'm 17, Iv'e been helping my dad do anything and everything to our cars since I could walk.

LOL thanks. We've done everything on boats though. The Sante Fe is nice, but she really wants/needs third row.

 

[Aetsh]

I work at a Chevy dealer, and I wouldn't get into a Traverse/Enclave/Arcadia.. They have numerous problems, and they're all nightmares..

The terrains and equinox aren't far off.. I did 2 sets of timing chains on one of each with both less than 30k on the clock.. Still in warranty but still..

 

[JoeyMitch]

I hear ya. She really like the Enclave and thinks it's OK if it's under warranty. But how often do you want to go and get it repaired?!

 

[cburnscrx]

I hear ya. She really like the Enclave and thinks it's OK if it's under warranty. But how often do you want to go and get it repaired?!

That's how you develop a "relationship" with your dealer. Maybe they'll give you a free coffee mug.

 

[MikeF2316]

The electrics on those S80s are very dependent on a good electrical supply. Don't even think about looking for any other electrical problems (which is all the other troubles you've listed) until you have a fully charged battery and a working alternator.

 

[wornoutoldman]

You should fix the Volvo for sure. Otherwise you're gonna be waiting alooong time before the folks decide to pass along the family truckster to you!

 

[JoeyMitch]

LOL. Don't worry. I'll have our Ford Explorer lol. Hopefully I don't break down.

 

[netcaretaker]

Honda pilot - like owning a toaster - looks about as good as one, but works every time. Got my wife one and I have never touched it other the fluids.

 

[NJHandyGuy]

i second that all those chevy"s mentioned **** i"ve towed just about everyone of those to lesterglenn usually with the owners screaming think 4 runner or sequoia

 

[sberry]

I second looking at the one you got, cables, alt,,, etc. How bad can you screw it up????? Its already broke.

 

[belvedere]

"Mom, if I can fix the Volvo, can I have it?"

 

[JoeyMitch]

Lol even if I fixed it I wouldn't want it.

 

[joedodge]

Don't let them get you down. There just machines and your there master I started young like you built a race at at 14 several engines and trannys for friends drag cars. I'm a pro auto/truck tech bumper to bumper now. I'm only 25 learn all you can as fast as you can and don't think you know it all. That's said truly avoid the enclave and Acadia and traverse. The terrains are nice get the oil life monitor ECM reflash done and it should be good to go timing chains and actuators were an issue for a while haven't seen any in a while though.

 

[cburnscrx]

Lol even if I fixed it I wouldn't want it.

And you're driving what now?

 

[JoeyMitch]

Lol. I just don't like Volvos. I'd rather have an SUV or truck. My mom really liked the Enclave but I'm not too sure with the things I've been reading.

 

[softailgarage]

Stay away from the Acadia and enclave we always have them in the shop either water pumps, transmissions with blown wave plates, or steering rack housings squeeking all kinda issues. The terrains are really nice lil SUV though very few issues spend the money and get the v6

X2 & terrains...and equinox's

The Volvo problem almost sound's like the ECM (electronic control module), but then you said you could charge and go. volvo's can be a pain in the *** after 100k, how many miles are on it?

 

[JTH]

Sure the battery is good? Owned Volvos for 30 years. Since OBDII they are very voltage sensitive. Was having strange issues with gauges and radio display but always cranked. replaced battery and things back to normal 04 XC70.

 

[cburnscrx]

LOL thanks. We've done everything on boats though. The Sante Fe is nice, but she really wants/needs third row.

The new Santa Fe XL has the 3rd row seating.

 

[Brownsfan]

Hey guys. We have a 2002 Volvo S80. Had the ****** rebuilt last year and all service done. Well last night we went out and left the car locked in the parking lot with nothing on. Come back 90 minutes later to start it and click, dead battery. Call AAA and they jump it for us and test it and all seems better. So we're on the parkway and as we're pulling off the exit, all lights dim and the screen says "Brake failure pull over safely". Then everything shuts off including headlights and mile gauge. Hit the gas and nothing happens and engine dies and we barely coast into a parking lot. Everything's dead. Call my grandpa and he comes out to jump us and starts right up with cables and as soon as we disconnect them it dies. I know after that it's the alternator. No biggie. Keep jumping and charging until we get to a friends shop and now find out theres something wrong with A/C, brakes, alternator (obviously) and just seems like there's a lot of problems. Even though there are only 156,000 miles, it doesn't run like it used to. Our KBB value is $2,990.

Getting to the point, my mom wants a new car. SUV is her new vehicle of choice. Please help us choose with these options below. Pros, cons, etc.

-2012 GMC Acadia, 25,000 miles, 5 year 100,000mile warranty, about $32k.

-2012 Buick Enclave, 27,000 miles, same warranty, $28k

-Chevy Traverse (No Specs yet) most likely 2012 with about same mileage and warranty

-GMC Terrain (No Specs yet) most likely 2012 with about same mileage and warranty

-Or do we get our Volvo repaired?

We really would like 3rd row seats as well.

Please do not even suggest Ford because we have a 2002 Ford Explorer with 112,000 miles that has been through 3 transmissions, roof leaks, paint chipping, fading paint, and now the service light and O/D off light is on. This Ford has been nothing but trouble so please don't even suggest!!!

Please help us. We are really in a bind. Thanks!!

Well the flip side to your Ford story is we bought our Explorer new in2003. Zero issues except wheel bearings in 100k when traded in for a 2010 Explorer with 40k and zero issues. I had a 2005 Sport Trac I bought in 2006 and traded it in for a 20010 Fusion. Had ZERO issues except wheel bearings and a alternator, traded in with 150k. Now have the Explorer and Fusion both with no issues other than normal maintainance. I have abuddy with a 2009 Acaidia that would like to light it on fire and roll it down a hill into a train. Nothing but problem after problem. Also have a friends wife with a Traverse(same vehicle) also a 09 withno issues at all. Moral of the story here is dont elminate a entire car company because of one bad apple and dont look at 3 of the EXACT same vehicles in just different trim levels. Like the 3 GMS go with the Traverse and save some cash.They are really nice SUVS. I am looking into the current Explorer because the new body style and they get great gas mileage over my 2010. Also the new Kia Sorento is a great vehicle. My brother owns one and its been trouble free since 2011 ad they drive the hell out of it. I dont like it but to each his own

 

[ATC]

Well the flip side to your Ford story is we bought our Explorer new in2003. Zero issues except wheel bearings in 100k when traded in for a 2010 Explorer with 40k and zero issues. I had a 2005 Sport Trac I bought in 2006 and traded it in for a 20010 Fusion. Had ZERO issues except wheel bearings and a alternator, traded in with 150k. Now have the Explorer and Fusion both with no issues other than normal maintainance. I have abuddy with a 2009 Acaidia that would like to light it on fire and roll it down a hill into a train. Nothing but problem after problem. Also have a friends wife with a Traverse(same vehicle) also a 09 withno issues at all. Moral of the story here is dont elminate a entire car company because of one bad apple and dont look at 3 of the EXACT same vehicles in just different trim levels. Like the 3 GMS go with the Traverse and save some cash.They are really nice SUVS. I am looking into the current Explorer because the new body style and they get great gas mileage over my 2010. Also the new Kia Sorento is a great vehicle. My brother owns one and its been trouble free since 2011 ad they drive the hell out of it. I dont like it but to each his own

This!

My family is diehard Ford owners because of the good service we've gotten out of them. 264,000 miles on a '99 Windstar...nothing but general maintenance and wear items. 194k on a '91 Aerostar...it overheated and cracked a head. Wasn't worth fixing a 16 y/o van to us. 130k on a '97 F150...IAC valve and manifold gaskets only. Etc...

But again...your (errr...your parents) choice. Good luck!

Get a new battery and alternator for the Volvo and drive the thing. $100 in parts every couple months is cheap compared to a $700 payment every month

 

[Roverbo]

Sure the battery is good? Owned Volvos for 30 years. Since OBDII they are very voltage sensitive. Was having strange issues with gauges and radio display but always cranked. replaced battery and things back to normal 04 XC70.

+1 to this. If the battery has corroded plates, the residues in the bottom will make shorts when you hit a bump. Also it won´t take charge. Get a new battery, and then test the charging. I´ve had 7 Volvos (most old RWD) and i´d say a 2002 Volvo is still like a "new Volvo"...not to offend anyone, but Volvos average build quality is far beyond american cars (or my english car). Here in Europe, Volvos have a calculated lifespan of 21 years.

Edit: I would search the net for Volvo owners clubs (there are many!), and ask about the problem there. Like any car, Volvos got problem and errors, but they are often very specific. A owned a 740 turbo once, who stalled exactly 5 mins. after start. Searched the net, and that pointed me to a fuel pump relay. New relay, and never had the problem again. Dedicated owners are your best friends!

 

[CWP1616L]

So if I understand this correctly, the Volvo needs a new battery and alternator, so therefore you're shopping for a new car?

 

[CNGsaves]

Please educate the folks that spending $30K on god-awful looking Terrain is complete waste of money!! Within first week, you'd be looking at $10K depreciation . . . AND . . . you'd have to drive that nasty looking thing!

Battery, alternator, heck even a new paint job would be better money spent on that old Volvo than buying a Terrain!!

Save your money, get your hands dirty, and change out the battery and alternator on the Volvo. Clean up all the battery cables and use the hot baking soda water technique to clean them up further.

Let's see pics of the Volvo . . . . the old girl likely has another 100K miles left in her for sure.

 

[JoeyMitch]

Not just the alternator, but other problems too. Well just see what's out there.

 

[Roverbo]

But Joey, as other members point out, the battery/alternator could be the cause of all your error messages. Give it a try. The electronics in modern cars are very sensitive to fluctuations in the battery voltage.

 

[JoeyMitch]

Would also like to add that my parents want something with more room and reliability. The Volvo just seems to be more expensive with everything we have had done.

 

[JoeyMitch]

The service transmission light had been on before as well. Even though we just had it rebuilt last year, the guy went out of businesses and our 1 year warranty left with him.