Tips on Buying Cars: Used 2006 Volvo S40, average life span, negotiation stage


Question
I'm looking to buy a used 2006 Volvo S40 with about 77,000 miles from a dealer.  On the high end of the spectrum I would guess I maybe average 10000 miles a year driving and live in South Florida so the affects of winter aren't really an issue.  Is it a mistake to look into buying a car with this many miles?  I'd like to get five years or so out of it.  I  just want to make sure I'm not being unrealistic.  Any advice on reliability of these vehicles or what my expectations should be?  
Thanks,
Beatrice

Answer
Hi Beatrice

I was born and raised in Scandinavia, therefore I know the Volvo quite well.

The average life span of a Volvo is 18.5 years with many going way past 400 K , and the frame Sweden make is second to none when it comes to rust through heavy winters, but not a concern of yours being spoiled located in a sunshine state,,,lol

A Volvo can be a little heavy on the pocket book with parts and labor, so here are my steps to ensure not getting a lemon.

Study this link on my website   http://www.usedcartips.org/TESTDRI.html   if it passes your expectations then click on mechanic at end of webpage, from there you enter the negotiation stage, study my site, if you get a little lost, I will be here to help you along getting value for your bucks.

Ray
PS,,, You say South Florida, I happen to be located a few of the winter months in the Sarasota Englewood area,,, where are you ?