Volvo Repair: 1991 740 Turbo Wagon, volvo specialist, car repair shop

Question
QUESTION: Recently when driving our wagon with the A/C on you can smell HEAVY exhaust fumes in the cabin, enough that it's not safe to drive.  I took it to our mechanic, he said it's a leak in the turbo unit but since it's connected to the exhaust manifold he can't repair it without replacing the entire part.  The muffler shop said they can't repair it either.  I think the repair will cost more than the car is worth.  Any suggestions for how to repair this cost effectively?

ANSWER: Cyndi, I would reconsider.  That car is one of these best volvo's out there.  I would have to look at this one to see what is broken to give you a honest opinion.  What did they say was bad?  The leak in the turbo unit will not cause that.  Perhaps a manifold leak?  Is this guy a Volvo tech or Joe Schmoes garage?  Roger

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QUESTION: Thank you for the quick reply!  It's a volvo/european car repair shop, but not the volvo dealer.  He's always been honest and a good mechanic, but I could try another shop.  He said, and the muffler guy agreed, the leak is in the turbo, where it connects to the manifold.  He said that since it's one part that's connected by metal, over the years the metal warps and can cause this issue.

Answer
I've been doing this a long time and have never seen this before. I suppose anything is possible.  Since its a Volvo specialist shop, they are better than the dealer anyway.  I would see if they can give you a deal for the repairs. Its a good car to hold on too.  Good Luck.  Roger