I think I need an S60 D5, will the auto ruin me?

[Stenn]

I'm in the process of shopping for a new 90 mile daily commuter (selling my disappointing 320d after 2 months ownership) and all roads seem to lead to the S60, by all accounts a great car and exactly what I'm looking for.

The only thing holding me back is that I want my next car to be an automatic and the internet tells me many horror stories about the auto box in the S60. Am I best looking elsewhere or should I put my faith in one? ? My budget is around £5k so I'd be looking at a facelift version. Is there anything I should be looking out for in particular?

Thanks.

[morgrp]

Stick to 2004 re-vamped models onwards and you'll be fine (different wheels, some chromework on the outside and chrome bezels around the dials identify these) - Does blunt the performance somewhat but is a smooth companion. important that they get a flushing once in a while - Its difficult to get hold of filters for most the Asin-Warner boxes these days but a flush should do just fine - I just did mine and apart from the fluid being expensive (you'll need around 2 gallons to do it properly) it is an easy job that can be tackled at home.

Apart from the various known issues with the earlier car (auto box being one of them) They are pretty solid and dependable but do your homework, e.g. steering rack leaks is a common fault on all models and will cost a few bob to put right.

As far as I see it you have two options, 1) Buy a decent one for a few grand upwards and hope for the best or 2) Chance it on a bork-tastic early model from 2002-2003 and buy for peanuts, run until it breaks and simply go out and buy another. It is worth noting that many of the early models have either been scrapped or the surviving ones have had the problems put right already

Edited by morgrp on Saturday 14th March 00:58

Edited by morgrp on Saturday 14th March 00:58