Models · Volvo
Volvo 850 T-5R and R, S70 R and V70 R buying guide
Volvo's fast five-cylinder turbo saloons and estates: the 850 T-5R, launched in 1994, the 850 R of 1995, and the S70 R saloon and V70 R estate that followed. All use versions of the 2.3 litre turbo five, so the engine checks apply across the range.
The versions
- 850 T-5R: 2.3 five-cylinder turbo, 240hp, five-speed manual or four-speed automatic; about 200 for the UK
- 850 R: 250hp with the five-speed manual and limited-slip differential, 240PS with the automatic; 30mm lower suspension, and later cars have larger 302mm front discs
- S70 R saloon (1998 model year): same engine family (B5234T), 250PS manual with limited-slip differential or 240PS automatic, front-wheel drive
- V70 R estate: 250bhp, manual or automatic, later versions with all-wheel drive
What to check on a Volvo 850 R
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Boost control and the con rods
What to look for: On the drive, accelerate firmly and watch for boost that surges or feels stronger than expected. Ask whether the boost control solenoid has been replaced and whether any boost controller has been fitted or adjusted.
Why it matters: Bent connecting rods are the engine's biggest weak spot and can happen with no warning. The usual cause is a failed boost control solenoid or a misadjusted boost controller allowing too much boost, so a car with standard, correctly working boost control is the one to look for. The S70 R and V70 R use the same family of engine, so the same applies.
The PCV glove test and oil leaks
What to look for: With the engine idling, remove the oil filler cap and stretch a rubber glove over the opening. A glove that's drawn in is good; a glove that inflates means the crankcase breather (PCV) system is worn. Look for oil where the engine meets the gearbox, and check the underside of the filler cap for milky residue.
Why it matters: A faulty PCV system can blow the main oil seal and cause leaks between the engine and gearbox. A milky dipstick is typical on these engines and doesn't necessarily mean head gasket failure, but milky residue on the filler cap suggests head gasket failure or a damaged radiator or oil cooler.
Cambelt history
What to look for: Look in the history for the last cambelt change, with its date and mileage. It should be within the last six years and 70,000 miles. Check oil changes at least every 10,000 miles.
Why it matters: The cambelt is due every 70,000 miles or six years, and it's a straightforward job. The service interval is 10,000 miles, and many owners change the oil more often to prolong the turbo's life.
Also in the full guide
- Is it a genuine R, and its gearbox
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Volvo 850 R
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Volvo.