Volvo: SRS Problem - 93 Volvo 850 GLT, volvo 850 glt, independent volvo

Question
The SRS light in my 16 year old daughter's 850 GLT has come on several times.  The first time was at 10 yrs. of age (I believe that's what is supposed to happen).  The independent Volvo shop who I have dealt with for many years, and who I trust completely checked it out, and reset the light.  Shortly thereafter, I had to have A/C evaporator replaced.  Apparently, something was not hooked up properly when they replaced the evaporator, because shortly after the evaporator was changed, the SRS light came on again.  The shop repaired it for free, because they said they had failed to connect something.  The light came on again a month or so after that, and codes were checked, and light reset.  I was told if light came on again, I would need to change computer.  Well, the light came on again (after a couple more months).  I was told I need a new computer which is $1000, plus 2 hrs. labor to install.   The shop happened to have a used computer, which they said they would sell for $500, plus the 2 hrs. to install.  I asked them about they wisdom of buying a used part for $500, and how long it might last.  They said that they have never seen one of these fail (just my luck that I'm the first).  Therefore, they thought it's a pretty safe bet.  What are your thoughts?  My wife doesn't want to fix it at all, but I am concerned about having a car without all the safety features working, even though it's a Volvo.  Have you seen these computers go bad before?  What do you think about using a used part?  Thanks for any insights you can provide.  

Answer
Hello Victor! I have seen the SRS crash sensor go bad before. That is what the computer is called. Did they tell you what fault codes were stored in the system? I would like to know so I can have a better idea of what went wrong. I have no problem with a used part as long as they are willing to guarantee it. Most used part dealers (junkyards) will give some sort of a warranty. Some may give 30-90 days and others may give a 1 year warranty! There is a Volvo salvage yard in NY called Erie VoVo. The nimber is 1-888-VOLVO13. Or go to www.erievovo.com for a price. I would check with them for a price and a warranty. They will probably give you a 1 year warranty. If you can, let me know what fault codes were stored before you do anything. Please contact me at my website.

Jimmy
www.vovoclinic.com
ww.jlcarclinic.com