AndyRupert.com

New Wheels: 2005 Volvo XC90 2.5T AWD

We came across a deal that we couldn’t pass up. When the vehicle was traded in, the readout reported “Anti-Skid Service Required.” From what I have learned, that usually means there is a problem with the angle gear, the splined sleeve which couples the angle gear and transmission, and/or the control module for the AWD system. Replacing those parts amounts to a good bit of pocket change, and you really don’t know what it needs until you physically remove and inspect the angle gear. That takes a bit of work and a good bit of money. So, what was a headache to the previous owner became an opportunity for our family.

I looked through the 1½ inch thick folder of maintenance records and got the idea that this was a well maintained vehicle. Sharon and I both test drove the vehicle over the weekend and found it to be a nice car. We also prayed for wisdom as it’s easy for a “good deal” to rapidly become a “big headache.” (Anyone remember the red SAAB 900?) I also talked with the mechanic who serviced it and paid him to look it over one more time before the purchase decision. He told me that 20% of the time, the sleeve is all that needs to be replaced. And if it was the angle gear, I had already sourced one from Erie Vo-Vo for half the price of a new one. And it came with a lifetime warranty.

So, we chose to buy the car and have the problem repaired. Still praying for God to take care of us, I waited for the results. A few hours later, the mechanic said, “You got lucky. It was only the sleeve.” You could call it that, but I chose to call it an answer to prayer. Further tests showed that the control module also needs to be replaced. But the price of repairs is much less than it could have been. So, we’re very thankful to now own a safe, reliable, and comfortable vehicle that meets the needs of our family and should last for many years to come. Hurrah!