General: 2005 S60 D5 Auto - what to look out for

[Benny dub]

Well the Mrs’ trusty old MG has finally gone bang for the last time so we’re looking for cheap runarounds for her and have found a lovely local S60 D5 auto. Facelift but with the 163 engine not the later 185.

Just had a look around and a quick test drive (very awkward with social distancing!) and it drives well, looks good.

It’s on 85k miles and has no obvious issues, however the seller did say that the alternator has been replaced recently and sometimes has an error message on the dash which you can get rid of by restarting the car, and the fact the air con has a slight leak so needs rehashing every 3-6 months or so (blows nice and cold at the mo though).

Just wondering if there’s anyone to worry about or if the alternator issue might be a sign of a bigger problem? The car is cheap enough that we can live with these issues but don’t want them causing something more serious. Also are there any important servicing intervals that fall around this mileage?

Might need to do something with the stereo too to get Bluetooth connectivity, either an add-on box or just an aftermarket stereo. From memory this was a bit of a minefield with my old 2001 C70 but I’m sure we can figure something out.

Opinions? Always liked this shape S60/V70, the other car we’re considering is a low mileage 2007 Focus - no where near as nice as the Volvo but we’re wondering if it’s the safer bet for a couple years of cheap trouble free motoring.

[Simmy]

try looking at volvo v50 its almost the same as a focus under the body

[oragex]

Which model year is this ? Do yo know what the error message was saying? Mind these cars need a local independent knowledgeable (and hopefully honest) garage. Bringing these to the main dealer can be much too expensive. There are things that need attention. The transmission should be fine if it was shifting smoothly, could do with a partial fluid change (ask us about details).

Originally Posted by Benny dub

Just had a look around and a quick test drive (very awkward with social distancing!)

You made me curious

[Benny dub]

Thanks for the replies guys, we got it in the end and the missus loves it. IT's in great condition with just a few bits of dull paintwork to polish out, drives perfectly though and given the wedge of paperwork that came with it it's been really well looked after, including by a local specialist which is probably where we'll keep taking it.

The alternator message has come up a few times since we've got it - the message reads "Charging system service urgent" or something very close to that.

The previous owner said it may require a voltage regulator on the alternator (which was replaced last year) and included the part with the sale which is in the glovebox. Does this sound right? Might be a job I can tackle myself.

Cheers
Ben

[barrybritcher]

get it looked at - too high voltage can fry every electronic item in the car.

Check the voltage at the battery while running - it its over 15V dont use the car