I live in California and work ridiculous hours and just can’t justify spending $100k or $200k on a stealth van and it’s hardly stealth so on my 07’ XC70, I have limo tint with ceramic? Anyway there is No seeing inside, unless I have a light on, and on my S90, I made blackout window shades.. for cooking outside I have a Coleman 4 in 1 grills, it has a flat top for eggs etc, a grill for steaks, a stove top for pans etc and the lid can be used as a wok, for cooking inside I use a HotLogic 12 volt cooker, it make’s perfect chicken breast @ 153 degrees, probably best I’ve had, most juicy for sure. For sleeping I bought a Heat Sleeping System it’s pricey but better than most hotels and home beds, it is worth the investment. For water I have a Dometic 11 liter storage unit with 12 volt faucet, plus a 6 gallon extra jug sometimes I bring my Burkey filter, I have the small one but it doesn’t really travel well.. lastly for liquid waste (if a public toilet isn’t near) I have an orange tinted, wide mouth Nalgene quart bottle from REI, totally stealth hahaha and for solid waste I do have a cheap folder with a bag and a sweet folding shovel but so far, I camp near toilets, but you can discard or bury human waste, if it’s separate from liquid waste. I usually go to Lovers Point in Monterey because it’s legal and your on the beach! I crack the sunroof, usually no heat nor A/C is necessary it’s a perfect 3 day weekend… try it !
Took my P3 on a 30 mile extreme offroad trip recently - from 4000 ft to 9000 ft with step rock strewn trails including 6" ledges. It did great even compared to the Toyota Tacoma & Subaru Outback that was with us. The only upgrades are a set of Falken WildPeak Trails (the perfect tire IMHO) and aluminum bash plates. When we got to the top, one guy in a brand-new Ford Ranger looked at it and said "a Volvo?!?!?". I told him I got lost going to yoga..... ;-)
Awesome - I have a 2006. Honestly everyone saying “compared to” a Subaru hasn’t driven a haldex Volvo - I had both for a long time and the Volvo was always way better in the snow. Keep it up, they are a total sleeper & amazing car 👍
@@4jeg Even the second gen Haldex in my ‘04 XC90 T6 is quite good. As far as on snow performance with good tires I have made a fool of most other vehicles on the road and can still do donuts if I kill DSTC (very important xD). Scariest thing is really trying to stop 6000lbs going down a hill on slick surfaces!
@@phishphood423 Good for you, keeping an original XC90 T6 on the road -- I hear it isn't easy with those awful GM transmissions. Whenever I see one I'm impressed!
@@benjamindoyle668 Ah yes, the slushbox! (4T65EV) Pretty garbage by most counts, but you can extend the life if you do regular fluid and filter changes (same is true for any trans honestly). I’m at ~147,800 mi on the car, but only 87,000 on the gearbox, first one died when the radiator leaked on it (yes, that’s a thing). Got a free replacement though! The real challenge is that having so much weight and pretty lame gear ratios necessitates lots of full throttle (or nearly) accelerations when passing and the like. So the poor trans is set up for a hard life, and being coupled to a motor that makes 280 ft-lbs (335 once tuned) at only 1,800 rpm does not help one bit. Other than that, great cars! With the 18 inch wheels and the right color (mine is the metallic navy) they are hands down the best looking SUV from the early 2000s and also one of the most powerful/fastest. Having a 130mph capable 6,000lb twin-turbo rocket just makes you feel cool, even if it takes about an hour to get up to speed.
I have the 2006 XC70 Cross Country Turbo, and I admit this vehicle is awesome, and very underrated. I'm 6'6" and I still fit in it too because the steering wheel adjustment telescopes out
We have the exact same model. But with like 300k miles. Still going strong. Maintenance is relatively easy and cheap. Can do most stuff at home. Car very well built. Wanted to lift it also to get more clearance. Then went for a ride in a lifted xc70. Result - I dont want the lift anymore. simply because it become very uncomfortable to drive on the highway at high speeds and very cumbersome on twisty country roads. Since I drive a lot on the motorway at about 90 mph this kit isnt for me. The standard car will happily sit planted to the road at 100 mph. The lifted car was all over the place at 65-75 mark, that i did not dare to go faster.
@unkreativnet @tywoodard6328 I was also wondering if the front passenger seat can be folded down completely? I read somewhere that it can be done, but couldn't figure out how...
Make sure after you pull the two clips on the back rest of the shotgun seat, you move the seat alllll the way back, if you have electric seat. Tilt it forward and the head rest will dig under the glove box. 😉
Holy Haldex Batman! Good looking wagon Berne, you're a good presenter too. Although my back still aches from swapping out the bevel gear on my 2005 xc70, I do love the look of the overland type kits. Nice work.
Oh need to replace my bevel gear, however I’m not sure if it’s something I can really do myself on the ground. A lift makes the job nominally easier. How long did it take you to do and did you do it on Jack stands or on a proper overhead lift.
My mum (i'm from Britain) had a 2003 XC70 for many years. She got it in 2006, and it was 2.4 turbo diesel SE Lux in Navy Blue with sat-nav, a sunroof, a phone, and a picnic table in the back. She sold it in February 2015 with 188,000 miles on the clock. It was a tank.
This is utterly amazing and beautiful. I live by the beach and enjoy going off-road for fishing. This would really benefit people living in the woods/mountains.
Hi Bern, I dunno if I posted it or not, but I got the World's Least Expensive Volvo last April, and '04 XC70. The person who sold it to me said, "it's old, and I don't wanna take care of it . ." I didn't argue, I paid cash & took 'er home. The engine is perfect, and the body is 97%. And yes, the FIRST THING I had done to my XC70 was the Timing Belt! I LEARN something NEW with every one of your videos. Now I know that the 2004 XC70 has third generation Haldex with instant traction. I LOVE IT!! Thank you, Bern. Great work!! PS, Thor is looking great here . . too bad about the accident. The Great lives on in this video!!
This is literally my dream car come true. I try to live by the ADV rule (Always Drive Volvo), or KBV in swedish, and a Volvo thats Not lifted is a surprizingly good off-roader... for what it is, a station wagon. But This, come hell or high water you can get there ^^ Also, just to do a small volvo brag: Had a 740 once, and the kilometer counter stopped at something like 890000... and then i drove it for another 8 years. Never any serious mechanical or electronic problems with it, it died from rusted underbelly. But taht car had travelled the distance to the moon and back, and then some, and then went for 8 more years. That is crazy
I just purchased a 2004 XC70. O originally bought it as a daily commuter for my daughter's first car; but after watching this, I'm considering the vehicle's potential as a trail rig, and doing a project with her to make a similar build, and add this to my stable of other off-road capable vehicles. I'll be checking out your page for more vids & mod info. Keep up the good work!
Great video. I’ve got a 2004 XC70 and love it. It will become my daughters 1st car so I’m not planning on any heavy mods but, love it and push it off-road in stock form.
You can fix everything on your Volvo at home in the garage with a relatively simple tool kit. I have a volvo 2001 v70 2.4T awd. Volvo is designed to withstand Swedish weather, which can be anywhere between +35 to -35 Celsius
How my XC70 has engine systems message on board and my AWD doesn’t work as a result!!! It’s an expensive module I believe that requires replacement ...
The issue is the cars are super sensitive to it failing so I would never trust one, awd engage suddenly? Breaks haldex pump. Not service haldex every 6k? Haldex pump breaks. Awd engage above 2k rpm? Diff spline broken. Go near water or dust? Abs ring sensor fails stopping the awd, headlights and abs. Use awd for more than 30 seconds consistently? Haldex pump seizes and clutch packs burn out. Use awd on a daily basis? Pump wears out. Use it infrequently? Will be seized before you ever get to use it.
@@kyleb5518 I wouldn't say they are super sensitive to failing, but the AWD system wasn't designed to the same standards as the rest of the vehicle. It is afterall a piggy back off of a FWD platform. When it works, it works well. When it doesn't, it hits you in the wallet... gotta learn to fix it, pay for it, or live with it.
You are so right about how underrated these cars are! They are far better built than anything Japanese, and far more reliable. Really enjoyed your video.
Far more reliable?? My 4wd corolla wagon has 400,000km and still going strong with just consumables. Many make it to 800,000km on the original engine. Once you get underneath the car and see how its built there is literally nothing to go wrong... too much electronic garbage in the newer cars like this. Yes this a reliable car but certainly not any more so than a well built jap (Im not talking nissan or subaru here).
@@VinDieselS70 Wow nice idea !! I was looking for a V50 years ago, and I also found the 4Awd kit conversion to make it permanent 4x4. That was about 2.000$ in that time. But it would be a nice "compact" off roader :D
@@alexsa122 mine is just a front wheel drive but I've seen lift kits for the V50. However I've heard the AWD V50 sits slightly higher than a normal car but never seen one but when I replaced my rear shocks last year i noticed there were two types of upper strut brackets for AWD and fwd. I think I was given the AWD by mistake as the rear seem to sit slightly higher up that what it did before as I also had to adjust the headlights quite a bit. I think it would look quite cool 🙂👍 I also heard some models of the XC70 MK can have either FWD or AWD.
I bought my wife a well used ‘06 T5 XC90 a couple years ago. I bought an ‘07 V8 with all the fancy stuff for me this year and she ended up loving that one even more so we switched. I used mine for elk hunting this year and even on old street tires it did incredibly well in the mud. I got stuck on the mountain because a tundra slid off the road partially and blocked the way. I had to back up half a mile in the dark in sloppy mud and the car did great. I’m buying AT tires for it this month so I’m excited to see what it can really do. I hope we get a lot of snow this winter. I slept very comfortably inside of the car the whole hunting season.
@@BernonCars I’m sticking with stock size after looking at how much the spring perches overhang the tires in the front. I think a good aid player would be a good investment though
Super fun video, thanks! You've got me dreaming now about modding my new/old '05 for hang gliding, which is a sport that requires off roading with glider/s on top. Oh yeah. I'm dreaming alright. Well presented!
@@BernonCars, Bad Swede seems to be 1 out of lift kits or 2. out of business. Not sure which. Do you know any other supplier? Thanks Bern, I'm going to watch your XC90 vid next.
I had one of these. I loved the seats and smooth highway ride. Good in snow. Reliability was ok not great. Once it could not go faster than 30 mph. Another was mysteriously wouldn't start. The Back hatch door pop open without any reason by itself while driving. When I complained to volvo they were dismissed for a few years till recalls fixed these issues.
I have a 2001 V70XC, the P2 is a great platform. I installed 215/70r16 Toyo AT3 Open Country tires on her which helped give her more clearance but nothing like what you got there. Would love more clearance to help me get places I can’t go due to my recent amputation but it’s a bit out of my price range. However I did put a 20”X64” roof basket on mine with a full size spare and 20” light bar cross the front along with a 5 gallon fuel cell I also have some LED light pods on the front. Great video though, defiantly inspired me to ditch my current exhaust and put in a straight pipe out the back. Was that a kit or just something you made?
all good and nice, till you brake something ... and even in soft roading things brake ... fixing it's gear might cost as much an outback for the same year ..
@@RazLeybo Most stuff that breaks is relatively easy DIY and used trannys and diffs are pretty reasonable. and many aftermarket susp. and drivetrain components.
I'm in the clan too...quick question... my brakes fell rolling even after getting the pads fixed on both the back and front... brake masters said the master cylinder is good
Love this build. Looking to buy one from the auctions where I live for $700. Needs a little work, but I’m looking to turn it into an over landing beast. Thanks for the video
im getting an xc70 need a van really , but this thing can hold all my gear, and not only that but also handle icy roads, and occasional hilly muddy roads. plus the comfort and safety ...you can't lose.... all the value is in the car usage, not in making things pretty...its all car.
@@BernonCars I mean it, I've been a Pro Cameraman for 30 Yrs, you got what it takes. But for Off Road I prefer my 1979 Jeep Wagoneer with AMC 401 & 6" Lift with 35" tires. LOL.
Thanks for this video. I have an 04XC 70. Lol! My neighbor bought that 06XC 90. Same color as yours by the way. I’m about ready to change out my front suspension. I figure since I’m gonna do that I’m going to get the lift on there. Thank you for pointing out what I need.
'Bern on Cars,' I love your videos, am absolutely thrilled to see your insights. Plus, you have a great voice and presentation style. Your passion for off-roading spills over and creates enthusiasm. Say, come out here to Boulder County, Colorado and drive the Lick Skillet road near Jamestown. It is listed in Wiki as the Steepest County Road in the United States. Colorado would be delighted to see you (well, I would, at least).
@@BernonCars Lick Skillet Road is in beautiful Boulder County up the James Canyon. I've hiked the area several times, yet never driven on that road yet. Look it up, it is on Google Maps, and it's in Wikipedia as the county road with the steepest incline in the USA.
How are you i luv the suspension set up,I have a 07 Volvo xc70 cross country,I would like to get this same suspension set up for my Volvo, what would it cost to get that suspension set
Have an 06 xc 70 2.5 T AWD....stock....I look at it as it sits....ready to go..... beckoning me to take it take it for a spin. This model just oozes test me...I can cope....VOLVO..... for life.
Hi Bern, quick query about the XC90 Executive version. IS there a numeral or designation in the Volvo VIN that lets you know you are looking at Exec version? That would cool to know. Thanks for all of your knowledge and Enthusiasm!! Yes, the Adventure Continues!!!
@@BernonCars Hi Bern, I found a link solely for Volvo XC90s. I do a lot of searching and I had an opportunity to test the VIN decoder, and it does designate if a Volvo Xc90 is an Executive version.
@@BernonCars Hi Bern, My 'old' Volvo XC70, Puddle Jumper by name, has three fuse locations. One fuse box location is in the engine compartment, the second fuse bay is in a panel off the left of driver's side in the front seat, and the third fuse box is in the left rear of the back area behind a removeable piece of interior carpet/panel.
I found what I've been looking for for so long. I have subscribed to your channel. hope to get more info on how to upgrade xc60, 90. i think it's more expensive than subaru upgrade but it's quality. Thank you very much guy.
Nice video! I have an -04 2.5l gasoline version and it's really a well performing car. It's just the stock version, no modifications done, but I've been thinking about giving it a little handling to make it more off road-capable. I'm just not sure how much I can modify it to meet Finnish regulations
I've got an 07 xc for getting around in comfort but when I go into rough terrain the Jeep is still my go to vehicle of choice because I know when I go into the bush I'm definitely coming out of the bush.
Awesome build. I am pushing to lift my 2011 XC60 R-Design. Two things I am hoping you can help with. 1) will those XC90 front drive axels fit my vehicle? 2) are you aware of any bull bars or the black steel bumpers that allow for steeper approach angles like the jeeps and Toyotas have aftermarket for Volvo?
Thank you for doing this! I have 2006 Volvo XC70 and thinking of raising it up to be able to do more off-road driving. Do you know if passenger seat can be folded down completely for a longer uninterrupted flat space?
got a volvo 740 gl 1990 and a subaru impreza 2013,i would wish the 4x4 system from impreza in the 740. but my 740 is good with the rear diff lock 1041 axle
Shoulda gotten the diesel. D5 2.4 biturbo with 285hp, 600nm of torque when chiptuned, and motor lasts as long as you service it. Also lower fuel consumption than the gas one
It's a shame it wasn't s D5 as those engines are good for 42+ UK Mpg as an average fuel economy and are as quick as I think the D5 came in 163,, 180 and 200+ hp. The Swedish Police also use the XC 70 quite a lot so that should vouch for their capabilities.
You're a very good commentator and the video editing is top notch. I have a question, is the Volvo AWD system more fragile than Subaru AWD? I have heard ok occasion people with Volvos have a broken AWD system and they don't care because it's pretty much a FWD car for them, but clearly the AWD system breaks for some reason. I wonder if it was owner neglect/mistake like mismatched tires that causes damage or if they get beat up in normal driving and fail. I would also like to learn if the AWD system is supposed to be serviced (changing fluid). I feel like researching Subaru 's maintenance schedule would give a hint if typical AWD systems need routine maintenance, but the Volvo has a different system anyway that can require maintenance if Subaru doesn't.
Since I need new shocks and struts this year anyway on my 2003 XC70, I think I'd like to lift it. Any idea how much extra that costs? Lift kit and labor?
Is the BF Goodies the stock tire size. I think thats the same size I have on mine? You have that same year and color of mine, I have the black interior tho. Can you let me know what year xc60 axles you used and do you know if they'll work if I don't lift it. Great looking offroader!! I'd put a trusher muffler on it tho to get a deep throaty sound. Did you keep the catalytic converter on it? If not, how do you keep it from throwing obd check engine light?
Confirmed Volvo Nut... I own 3... absolutely tremendous vehicles, I'll be making one a Stealth camping car
Sounds like you’re passionate about them!
Whats a stealth camping vehicle? Sounds like my speed.
I live in California and work ridiculous hours and just can’t justify spending $100k or $200k on a stealth van and it’s hardly stealth so on my 07’ XC70, I have limo tint with ceramic? Anyway there is No seeing inside, unless I have a light on, and on my S90, I made blackout window shades.. for cooking outside I have a Coleman 4 in 1 grills, it has a flat top for eggs etc, a grill for steaks, a stove top for pans etc and the lid can be used as a wok, for cooking inside I use a HotLogic 12 volt cooker, it make’s perfect chicken breast @ 153 degrees, probably best I’ve had, most juicy for sure. For sleeping I bought a Heat Sleeping System it’s pricey but better than most hotels and home beds, it is worth the investment. For water I have a Dometic 11 liter storage unit with 12 volt faucet, plus a 6 gallon extra jug sometimes I bring my Burkey filter, I have the small one but it doesn’t really travel well.. lastly for liquid waste (if a public toilet isn’t near) I have an orange tinted, wide mouth Nalgene quart bottle from REI, totally stealth hahaha and for solid waste I do have a cheap folder with a bag and a sweet folding shovel but so far, I camp near toilets, but you can discard or bury human waste, if it’s separate from liquid waste. I usually go to Lovers Point in Monterey because it’s legal and your on the beach! I crack the sunroof, usually no heat nor A/C is necessary it’s a perfect 3 day weekend… try it !
I forgot to mention the electrical portion, I use a Jackery 1,000 for my laptop, cameras, rechargeables and cooking
@@GoTerry Make a TH-cam video of your rig and gear.
Took my P3 on a 30 mile extreme offroad trip recently - from 4000 ft to 9000 ft with step rock strewn trails including 6" ledges. It did great even compared to the Toyota Tacoma & Subaru Outback that was with us. The only upgrades are a set of Falken WildPeak Trails (the perfect tire IMHO) and aluminum bash plates. When we got to the top, one guy in a brand-new Ford Ranger looked at it and said "a Volvo?!?!?". I told him I got lost going to yoga..... ;-)
LOL I love it!
Awesome - I have a 2006. Honestly everyone saying “compared to” a Subaru hasn’t driven a haldex Volvo - I had both for a long time and the Volvo was always way better in the snow. Keep it up, they are a total sleeper & amazing car 👍
@@4jeg Even the second gen Haldex in my ‘04 XC90 T6 is quite good. As far as on snow performance with good tires I have made a fool of most other vehicles on the road and can still do donuts if I kill DSTC (very important xD). Scariest thing is really trying to stop 6000lbs going down a hill on slick surfaces!
@@phishphood423 Good for you, keeping an original XC90 T6 on the road -- I hear it isn't easy with those awful GM transmissions. Whenever I see one I'm impressed!
@@benjamindoyle668 Ah yes, the slushbox! (4T65EV) Pretty garbage by most counts, but you can extend the life if you do regular fluid and filter changes (same is true for any trans honestly). I’m at ~147,800 mi on the car, but only 87,000 on the gearbox, first one died when the radiator leaked on it (yes, that’s a thing). Got a free replacement though!
The real challenge is that having so much weight and pretty lame gear ratios necessitates lots of full throttle (or nearly) accelerations when passing and the like. So the poor trans is set up for a hard life, and being coupled to a motor that makes 280 ft-lbs (335 once tuned) at only 1,800 rpm does not help one bit.
Other than that, great cars! With the 18 inch wheels and the right color (mine is the metallic navy) they are hands down the best looking SUV from the early 2000s and also one of the most powerful/fastest. Having a 130mph capable 6,000lb twin-turbo rocket just makes you feel cool, even if it takes about an hour to get up to speed.
I have the 2006 XC70 Cross Country Turbo, and I admit this vehicle is awesome, and very underrated. I'm 6'6" and I still fit in it too because the steering wheel adjustment telescopes out
Happy to help!! Thank you for watching!
Hi, I am 5' 10" and my lovely '04 XC70 fits my height well. And YES, they are awesome!!
We have the exact same model. But with like 300k miles. Still going strong. Maintenance is relatively easy and cheap. Can do most stuff at home. Car very well built. Wanted to lift it also to get more clearance. Then went for a ride in a lifted xc70. Result - I dont want the lift anymore. simply because it become very uncomfortable to drive on the highway at high speeds and very cumbersome on twisty country roads. Since I drive a lot on the motorway at about 90 mph this kit isnt for me. The standard car will happily sit planted to the road at 100 mph. The lifted car was all over the place at 65-75 mark, that i did not dare to go faster.
I have no issues at 80 and 90 mph in mine rides the same maybe just a little stiffer
Probably should not drive 90.
Very informative. I have an 06 XC90 AWD and have been off road many times with no problems. It helps to know what off road feels like.
Nice! I used to have a V8 myself, loved it!
Thanks
Wow thank you!! 🙏🏾
I've never been a car guy but I love my 2004 xc70 so much!! Cool video.
Nice!! Thanks for watching!
I just bought one (a 2004 XC70)!! Plan to go 'roading' over the dirt roads in the backwoods of Boulder County, Colorado!!
That is a cool build! I love seeing unconventional off road vehicles in action!
Heck yeah!! Me too!
Great video! I'm pretty sure we are friends on Instagram @monsterxc70
Like unique lifted vehicles check out the lifted 2011 Kia Sorento I built my wife in my TH-cam channel.
I will have to check it out!
That L5 sounds angry straight piped. I could feel it growing hair on my chest. I only wish it worked for my head.
Mostly unknown fact of this car: You can not only lay down the rear seat, but also the shotgun-seat. Gives you more than 2,5 meter nearly flat space.
wait... including the electric front passenger? tell me the secret... i beg... im space-obsessed
@unkreativnet @tywoodard6328 I was also wondering if the front passenger seat can be folded down completely?
I read somewhere that it can be done, but couldn't figure out how...
Tis true, there are 2 small levers on the back near the bottom, and you flip those and the seat will fold forward
Make sure after you pull the two clips on the back rest of the shotgun seat, you move the seat alllll the way back, if you have electric seat. Tilt it forward and the head rest will dig under the glove box. 😉
Son of a....just did this on my S60R and it works. I have had the P2 platform cars for 20 years and ever knew this.
Holy Haldex Batman! Good looking wagon Berne, you're a good presenter too. Although my back still aches from swapping out the bevel gear on my 2005 xc70, I do love the look of the overland type kits. Nice work.
Oh need to replace my bevel gear, however I’m not sure if it’s something I can really do myself on the ground. A lift makes the job nominally easier. How long did it take you to do and did you do it on Jack stands or on a proper overhead lift.
They are awesome!!
@@NegativeSpacesPositiveEntropy It can be done on the ground
🤘🏾🤘🏾🎯
My mum (i'm from Britain) had a 2003 XC70 for many years. She got it in 2006, and it was 2.4 turbo diesel SE Lux in Navy Blue with sat-nav, a sunroof, a phone, and a picnic table in the back. She sold it in February 2015 with 188,000 miles on the clock. It was a tank.
I wish we got some of the diesels here in the US!
That sounds like the perfect vehicle Henry!
@@dawnrobbins5877 It was. We drove all the way from Scotland to France back in 2009
@@HenryBrooke1998 I'm so jealous. ☺️
I accomplished all of that lift with xc90 front struts and 3d printed top hat spacers, rear spring spacers, and 3d printed subframe drop
Oh shit!
This is utterly amazing and beautiful. I live by the beach and enjoy going off-road for fishing. This would really benefit people living in the woods/mountains.
Hi Bern, I dunno if I posted it or not, but I got the World's Least Expensive Volvo last April, and '04 XC70. The person who sold it to me said, "it's old, and I don't wanna take care of it . ." I didn't argue, I paid cash & took 'er home. The engine is perfect, and the body is 97%. And yes, the FIRST THING I had done to my XC70 was the Timing Belt!
I LEARN something NEW with every one of your videos. Now I know that the 2004 XC70 has third generation Haldex with instant traction. I LOVE IT!!
Thank you, Bern. Great work!! PS, Thor is looking great here . . too bad about the accident. The Great lives on in this video!!
Ohh wow!! Nice!!!
I appreciate that! I'm just glad the adventure continues!
Thx Bern , great review and demo !! i have recently purchased a 05 XC70 and now have new appreciation for capability 👍 cheers
Glad you enjoyed!
Awesome! I can't believe it took me this long to find your channel, but I'm glad to be here now!
Welcome aboard!
Volvo is the best car ever. 👍👍🇸🇪🇸🇪
Yes!
not quite sure about that
Was. Volvo have dropped a few spanners in the last 15 years. Windscreens that leak, quality is not what it used to be. Volvo V70 2011 owner.
I'd say they're better that the average car.
This is literally my dream car come true.
I try to live by the ADV rule (Always Drive Volvo), or KBV in swedish, and a Volvo thats Not lifted is a surprizingly good off-roader... for what it is, a station wagon.
But This, come hell or high water you can get there ^^
Also, just to do a small volvo brag: Had a 740 once, and the kilometer counter stopped at something like 890000... and then i drove it for another 8 years. Never any serious mechanical or electronic problems with it, it died from rusted underbelly.
But taht car had travelled the distance to the moon and back, and then some, and then went for 8 more years.
That is crazy
I just purchased a 2004 XC70. O originally bought it as a daily commuter for my daughter's first car; but after watching this, I'm considering the vehicle's potential as a trail rig, and doing a project with her to make a similar build, and add this to my stable of other off-road capable vehicles.
I'll be checking out your page for more vids & mod info. Keep up the good work!
Thank you, cheers! That would be cool!
Great video. I’ve got a 2004 XC70 and love it. It will become my daughters 1st car so I’m not planning on any heavy mods but, love it and push it off-road in stock form.
They’re awesome!
You are a good orator, your voice is pleasant to listen too.
Thank you! 😄
You can fix everything on your Volvo at home in the garage with a relatively simple tool kit. I have a volvo 2001 v70 2.4T awd. Volvo is designed to withstand Swedish weather, which can be anywhere between +35 to -35 Celsius
As someone who does it, I wouldn't call my tool set simple!
We only needed 2 tools to change the aux belt on our XC90 D5
Maybe YOU can but I'm about to give up on my immobilizer issue and take a break for awhile! 😂
No you can't.... it took 7hrs to get the thermostat housing removed due to timing belts
I have a lifted 940 and this is kinda making me want a P2 even though I pretty well despise them.
You can totally fix the awd yourself... I've already done it three times on mine! 🤣🤣🤣
How'd you do it?
How my XC70 has engine systems message on board and my AWD doesn’t work as a result!!! It’s an expensive module I believe that requires replacement ...
The issue is the cars are super sensitive to it failing so I would never trust one, awd engage suddenly? Breaks haldex pump.
Not service haldex every 6k? Haldex pump breaks. Awd engage above 2k rpm? Diff spline broken. Go near water or dust? Abs ring sensor fails stopping the awd, headlights and abs. Use awd for more than 30 seconds consistently? Haldex pump seizes and clutch packs burn out. Use awd on a daily basis? Pump wears out. Use it infrequently? Will be seized before you ever get to use it.
@@kyleb5518 I wouldn't say they are super sensitive to failing, but the AWD system wasn't designed to the same standards as the rest of the vehicle. It is afterall a piggy back off of a FWD platform. When it works, it works well. When it doesn't, it hits you in the wallet... gotta learn to fix it, pay for it, or live with it.
@@xlbubblehead2505 used and abused buddy! My XC isn't some boulevard queen.
You are so right about how underrated these cars are! They are far better built than anything Japanese, and far more reliable. Really enjoyed your video.
Glad you enjoyed!!
Far more reliable?? My 4wd corolla wagon has 400,000km and still going strong with just consumables. Many make it to 800,000km on the original engine. Once you get underneath the car and see how its built there is literally nothing to go wrong... too much electronic garbage in the newer cars like this. Yes this a reliable car but certainly not any more so than a well built jap (Im not talking nissan or subaru here).
I have lifted 2cm my C70 MK2 - and I can say that "off roading" with an convertible is spectacular :D
Thats sick!
Hahaha that's such a cool idea! 👍. I might just go and buy a lift kit to my V50 to make it to a XC50.
@@VinDieselS70 Wow nice idea !! I was looking for a V50 years ago, and I also found the 4Awd kit conversion to make it permanent 4x4. That was about 2.000$ in that time. But it would be a nice "compact" off roader :D
@@alexsa122 mine is just a front wheel drive but I've seen lift kits for the V50. However I've heard the AWD V50 sits slightly higher than a normal car but never seen one but when I replaced my rear shocks last year i noticed there were two types of upper strut brackets for AWD and fwd. I think I was given the AWD by mistake as the rear seem to sit slightly higher up that what it did before as I also had to adjust the headlights quite a bit. I think it would look quite cool 🙂👍
I also heard some models of the XC70 MK can have either FWD or AWD.
@@VinDieselS70 I always thought they should have made a V50 XC. Would've sold like hotcakes in the Northeast long before the Crosstrek took over.
I'm on my fifth Volvo and my first 2004 xc70. I've been wanting to lift her from day one. Maybe this year. VOLVO FOR LIFE!!❤
I bought my wife a well used ‘06 T5 XC90 a couple years ago. I bought an ‘07 V8 with all the fancy stuff for me this year and she ended up loving that one even more so we switched. I used mine for elk hunting this year and even on old street tires it did incredibly well in the mud. I got stuck on the mountain because a tundra slid off the road partially and blocked the way. I had to back up half a mile in the dark in sloppy mud and the car did great. I’m buying AT tires for it this month so I’m excited to see what it can really do. I hope we get a lot of snow this winter. I slept very comfortably inside of the car the whole hunting season.
AT tires will definitely help!
@@BernonCars I’m sticking with stock size after looking at how much the spring perches overhang the tires in the front. I think a good aid player would be a good investment though
Great video! I am looking into buying a p2 xc70 myself and gotta say, the lift mods on the xc70 looks so good!
Great video to see a good review on a lifted XC70. Love your XC90 also
Thank you!!
Yeah, Subarus are great, but it's a refreshing change, and a boost in cool factor, to see a nicely done XC70 like this one.
Exactly!
this video is a 10/10 and so is that build!
Indeed!! Cheers
B.F.G. A.T. 225/75 R 16 Looks perfect !
Love the sound of those 5 cylinders!
Me too!
Super fun video, thanks! You've got me dreaming now about modding my new/old '05 for hang gliding, which is a sport that requires off roading with glider/s on top.
Oh yeah. I'm dreaming alright. Well presented!
Hahaha thank you!! Do itttt
@@BernonCars, Bad Swede seems to be 1 out of lift kits or 2. out of business. Not sure which. Do you know any other supplier? Thanks Bern, I'm going to watch your XC90 vid next.
I had one of these. I loved the seats and smooth highway ride. Good in snow. Reliability was ok not great. Once it could not go faster than 30 mph. Another was mysteriously wouldn't start. The Back hatch door pop open without any reason by itself while driving. When I complained to volvo they were dismissed for a few years till recalls fixed these issues.
I have a 2001 V70XC, the P2 is a great platform. I installed 215/70r16 Toyo AT3 Open Country tires on her which helped give her more clearance but nothing like what you got there. Would love more clearance to help me get places I can’t go due to my recent amputation but it’s a bit out of my price range. However I did put a 20”X64” roof basket on mine with a full size spare and 20” light bar cross the front along with a 5 gallon fuel cell I also have some LED light pods on the front.
Great video though, defiantly inspired me to ditch my current exhaust and put in a straight pipe out the back. Was that a kit or just something you made?
Thanks for watching! I think he did it custom
@@BernonCars
Would you happen to have a link to the build specs
I'd love to have that 70! Nothing against Subaru but I certainly wouldn't choose it over Volvo.
You and me both!
all good and nice, till you brake something ...
and even in soft roading things brake ...
fixing it's gear might cost as much an outback for the same year ..
@@RazLeybo Most stuff that breaks is relatively easy DIY and used trannys and diffs are pretty reasonable. and many aftermarket susp. and drivetrain components.
I'm in the clan too...quick question... my brakes fell rolling even after getting the pads fixed on both the back and front... brake masters said the master cylinder is good
I’m in Pennsylvania too. I’d love to know where you guys are at in this video, I’d jump at the chance to overland my 06 xc70 there. Looks awesome
Love this build. Looking to buy one from the auctions where I live for $700. Needs a little work, but I’m looking to turn it into an over landing beast. Thanks for the video
Nice that would be excellent!
I love seeing non-standard overlanding vehicles!
Top video, edit keep up, good work
Thank you!!
Haha just came from your XC90 vid. Loving the Volvo content 💪
Sweeeet, thank you!! 😁
That wagon is NICE!!! Not sure about the straight pipe though ;-)
It sounds better in person!
Straight pipe offroad wagon is fucking badass. Especially with Volvos 5 cyl engine sound
That 5 cylinder growl is like from other world :)
im getting an xc70 need a van really , but this thing can hold all my gear, and not only that but also handle icy roads, and occasional hilly muddy roads.
plus the comfort and safety ...you can't lose.... all the value is in the car usage, not in making things pretty...its all car.
I love the penta volvo engines, currently scouring craigslist for an XC too.
Thanks for the inspiration! Now I might consider a Volvo.
You should!
I added a lift kit with an air ride kit lol... making it super high as well as a bit lower than stock and super safe and stable on turns.
Thats great!
Excellent video. Great delivery. I Wish you added links to products shown.
I own,
04 V70,
04 XC70,
06 XC90,
08 XC70
2010 XC90.
Thank you!
@@BernonCars I mean it, I've been a Pro Cameraman for 30 Yrs, you got what it takes. But for Off Road I prefer my 1979 Jeep Wagoneer with AMC 401 & 6" Lift with 35"
tires. LOL.
I'm glad to be in the volvo clan.
Just bought one from my gf's aunt.
Any advice on fixing lighter/chargers fix
Thanks for this video. I have an 04XC 70. Lol! My neighbor bought that 06XC 90. Same color as yours by the way. I’m about ready to change out my front suspension. I figure since I’m gonna do that I’m going to get the lift on there. Thank you for pointing out what I need.
My pleasure!
'Bern on Cars,' I love your videos, am absolutely thrilled to see your insights. Plus, you have a great voice and presentation style. Your passion for off-roading spills over and creates enthusiasm. Say, come out here to Boulder County, Colorado and drive the Lick Skillet road near Jamestown. It is listed in Wiki as the Steepest County Road in the United States. Colorado would be delighted to see you (well, I would, at least).
Thank you! I appreciate that! I’ve been to Colorado once and I can’t wait to go back. I’ll definitely remember Lick Skillet road!
@@BernonCars Lick Skillet Road is in beautiful Boulder County up the James Canyon. I've hiked the area several times, yet never driven on that road yet. Look it up, it is on Google Maps, and it's in Wikipedia as the county road with the steepest incline in the USA.
Thanks Bern! Awesome video!
Thank you!!
I always look at the rear end to put something inside😂😂
Volvo: reliable like a house of cards
That is badass, I have a v70r. I guess you have a spare
collar sleeve in the glovebox for the rear wheels..
How are you i luv the suspension set up,I have a 07 Volvo xc70 cross country,I would like to get this same suspension set up for my Volvo, what would it cost to get that suspension set
Have an 06 xc 70 2.5 T AWD....stock....I look at it as it sits....ready to go..... beckoning me to take it take it for a spin. This model just oozes test me...I can cope....VOLVO..... for life.
Yesss!
Never thought of it but nice idea.
Hi Bern, quick query about the XC90 Executive version. IS there a numeral or designation in the Volvo VIN that lets you know you are looking at Exec version? That would cool to know. Thanks for all of your knowledge and Enthusiasm!! Yes, the Adventure Continues!!!
Hello!! I'm honestly not sure if there's a vin designation, but I wouldn't be surprised! The Execs have an extra fuse box in the trunk!
@@BernonCars Hi Bern, I found a link solely for Volvo XC90s. I do a lot of searching and I had an opportunity to test the VIN decoder, and it does designate if a Volvo Xc90 is an Executive version.
@@BernonCars Hi Bern, My 'old' Volvo XC70, Puddle Jumper by name, has three fuse locations. One fuse box location is in the engine compartment, the second fuse bay is in a panel off the left of driver's side in the front seat, and the third fuse box is in the left rear of the back area behind a removeable piece of interior carpet/panel.
Great cars, I want one for winter to go with my '02 V70
Omggggggg Im in love With your car gotta get mine lifted..🤤📈 black rims odw....We need a car club ...
I found what I've been looking for for so long. I have subscribed to your channel. hope to get more info on how to upgrade xc60, 90. i think it's more expensive than subaru upgrade but it's quality. Thank you very much guy.
Glad I helped!
Nice video! I have an -04 2.5l gasoline version and it's really a well performing car. It's just the stock version, no modifications done, but I've been thinking about giving it a little handling to make it more off road-capable. I'm just not sure how much I can modify it to meet Finnish regulations
Awesome video coming from a volvo fan! Great knowledge!
Thank you!! 😁
I've got an 07 xc for getting around in comfort but when I go into rough terrain the Jeep is still my go to vehicle of choice because I know when I go into the bush I'm definitely coming out of the bush.
Awesome build. I am pushing to lift my 2011 XC60 R-Design. Two things I am hoping you can help with.
1) will those XC90 front drive axels fit my vehicle?
2) are you aware of any bull bars or the black steel bumpers that allow for steeper approach angles like the jeeps and Toyotas have aftermarket for Volvo?
Thank you for doing this!
I have 2006 Volvo XC70 and thinking of raising it up to be able to do more off-road driving.
Do you know if passenger seat can be folded down completely for a longer uninterrupted flat space?
As usual, a great video Bernard.
Thank you!
got a volvo 740 gl 1990 and a subaru impreza 2013,i would wish the 4x4 system from impreza in the 740. but my 740 is good with the rear diff lock 1041 axle
That rear diff lock is great
Shoulda gotten the diesel. D5 2.4 biturbo with 285hp, 600nm of torque when chiptuned, and motor lasts as long as you service it. Also lower fuel consumption than the gas one
This guy; the Geordi La Forge of Volvo's. 😅
It's a shame it wasn't s D5 as those engines are good for 42+ UK Mpg as an average fuel economy and are as quick as I think the D5 came in 163,, 180 and 200+ hp.
The Swedish Police also use the XC 70 quite a lot so that should vouch for their capabilities.
I agree. We don’t get Diesel Volvo’s here!
Good video!
Thanks!
I absolutely love my 06 xc70
That is excellent!
Again Robert is spot on nice simple instructions for an idiot like me, Thanks Bob.
Bob is great
This is the way.
Great review and info!
Thank you!
I'd almost do another 3" and some larger tires.
If only the drivetrain would allow it! Haha
Show us some off roading! I’ll do that in my skyline
I have the same year...you're giving me ideas...where in PA?....( Im in state college PSU)
I’m in chambersburg area
Just found you Bern - Awesome stuff!
Happy you found me!!
Hi there I have volvo v70 2004 2.4 and want a lift kit and what tyres to put after lift kit how much I can lift it
Nice video, easy going and informative. Cheers.
Thank you!
very, very good idea. I love VOLVO
Great review thanks !
Thank you!
You're a very good commentator and the video editing is top notch. I have a question, is the Volvo AWD system more fragile than Subaru AWD? I have heard ok occasion people with Volvos have a broken AWD system and they don't care because it's pretty much a FWD car for them, but clearly the AWD system breaks for some reason. I wonder if it was owner neglect/mistake like mismatched tires that causes damage or if they get beat up in normal driving and fail. I would also like to learn if the AWD system is supposed to be serviced (changing fluid). I feel like researching Subaru 's maintenance schedule would give a hint if typical AWD systems need routine maintenance, but the Volvo has a different system anyway that can require maintenance if Subaru doesn't.
Thank you! Yes the Volvo systems are known to be more fragile. Subaru is full-time AWD so there’s nothing to engage unlike the Volvo
@@BernonCars thank you for the explanation bro :) Subarus just seem super tough climbing up huge hills and such .
Curious if you put any skid plates under the engine to protect against rock strikes to the oil pan?
Must be the 2.2 degree approach angle 😀
Awesome vid man!
Thank you!!
Since I need new shocks and struts this year anyway on my 2003 XC70, I think I'd like to lift it. Any idea how much extra that costs? Lift kit and labor?
Hello, this video is so informative If you had that model diesel in the US would you choose the D5?
Thank you! I probably would buy a D5!
This is the stuff of Alex Forrester’s nightmares. 😆
Completely opposite of his car 😂😂
This was a great video keep it up
Thank you!!
Where are the mods from? Where do volvo people buy them? I’m about to buy an xc70 and make look like this but have no idea where to get the bits from
Facebook groups and Volvo forums help! I would check out IPD, Cross Country Performance, and theres other good brands too
Ground clearance great but seems to have little suspension travel.
Yup suspension travel is the main issue for these. Even with my XC90
Is the BF Goodies the stock tire size. I think thats the same size I have on mine?
You have that same year and color of mine, I have the black interior tho. Can you let me know what year xc60 axles you used and do you know if they'll work if I don't lift it. Great looking offroader!! I'd put a trusher muffler on it tho to get a deep throaty sound. Did you keep the catalytic converter on it? If not, how do you keep it from throwing obd check engine light?
Wow! Super Great, Adorable & Wish I,ve the MONSTER 4 inch lifted 2006 #Volvo #XC70!