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2008 Volvo S80 Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.63
Based on 29 Owner Reviews â–¶
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2008 Volvo S80 is a mid-size luxury sedan, representing Volvo's commitment to safety and comfort. Part of the second S80 generation (2006-2016), it offered a sophisticated alternative to more aggressive luxury cars. Key trims included the base S80, 3.2, and the T6 with its turbocharged engine. The pricing range when new was roughly $38,000-$50,000. Its understated elegance and focus on passenger well-being made it popular.
The Good

The 2008 Volvo S80 offers a comfortable and safe driving experience. Its comfortable ride and spacious interior appeal to emotional buyers. Practical advantages include Volvo's reputation for safety and, depending on the engine, decent fuel efficiency. The S80 offers a good value proposition in the used market due to depreciation.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2008 Volvo S80 include potential electronic issues, especially with the infotainment system. Some owners have reported problems with the suspension and transmission. Regular maintenance is crucial. Watch out for signs of oil leaks and ensure proper function of all safety features before purchasing.

2008 Volvo S80: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 3.2L Inline-6: Produces around 235 horsepower.
    • 4.4L V8 (AWD Only): Produces around 311 horsepower.
    • 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (T6): Produces around 281 horsepower.
  • Horsepower: Ranging from 235 to 311 hp depending on the engine.
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • 3.2L: 16-18 mpg city / 24-27 mpg highway
    • 4.4L V8: 15 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
    • 3.0L T6: 15 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • 3.2L: 7.5-8.0 seconds
    • 4.4L V8: 6.0-6.5 seconds
    • 3.0L T6: 6.5-7.0 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: The 2008 Volvo S80 is not recommended for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base S80: Leather upholstery, power front seats, dual-zone climate control, sunroof, and premium sound system.
    • 3.2: Adds features like wood trim and upgraded wheels.
    • T6: Includes the turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and unique exterior styling cues. All-wheel drive (AWD) was available.

2008 Volvo S80 Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2008
Make Volvo
Model S80
Trim -
Style V-8
Type Sedan
Category Mid-Size Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Sweden
Manufacturing City TORSLANDA
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 4100 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 4.4-L V-8
Engine Size 4.4L
Engine Cylinders 8
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $49,210
Invoice Price $45,765
Delivery Charges $745

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What Problems Does the 2008 Volvo S80 Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2008 Volvo S80 often revolve around electrical systems. Issues with the infotainment system, including the navigation and audio components, are relatively common. Some owners have experienced problems with the electronic parking brake. Suspension components, particularly the front struts and control arms, can wear out and require replacement. The transmission, especially in higher-mileage vehicles, can exhibit rough shifting or slippage.

Recalls for the 2008 Volvo S80 have addressed issues such as potential fuel pump failures and problems with the supplemental restraint system (SRS). It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN against recall databases to ensure all necessary repairs have been performed.

Long-term reliability concerns often stem from the complexity of the vehicle's systems. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and fluid replacements, is essential to mitigate potential issues. The V8 engine, while powerful, can be more prone to oil leaks than the inline-6 variants. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended to identify any existing or potential problems. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into more costly repairs.

How long will the 2008 Volvo S80 last?

With proper maintenance, a 2008 Volvo S80 can realistically provide 200,000 miles or more of service. Many owners report 15-20 years of use. However, longevity depends heavily on maintenance habits. Regular oil changes, timely fluid flushes, and proactive repairs are critical. Weaknesses over time often include wear and tear on suspension components, potential electronic failures, and rust, especially in regions with harsh winters. The key to long-term durability is diligent care and addressing issues before they become major problems.
Positive Owner Reviews
VolvoFan
Great driving. Comfortable for occupants. Great features. With rear seats folded down, could fit 2x10's, 10 ft long, in car with trunk lid closed. Very reliable, never left me stopped/stranded. Still has great styling long after new.
Driver Of Understated Cars
After years of Lincoln Town Cars, I decided I wanted something different that was stylish & comfortable (boy will a Town Car spoil you). Had it pretty much narrowed down to the Lexus & Infiniti. The Lexus fell by the wayside since they were too common. That left the Infiniti M35 AWD. Not having much luck finding one, the S80 came up as another car to consider. After doing some research, the price savings for the S80 versus virtually all other luxury sedans in that size was CRAZY. Got lucky, found a very clean, very well maintained S80 that I was able to get at a great price. No regrets what so ever & being the flagship car for Volvo (now replaced by the S90) you don't see them everywhere like the S40 or S60. On top of that I got the T6 (6cyl, AWD, Turbo) & of course the legendary SAFETY of Volvo!!!
Pram
Super nice car!!! Comfort, power, and realizable!!! I fell in love with this car the first time I drove it!!!! Fun car to dive with the peice of mind that you are in a safe car!!
Negative Owner Reviews
Vnessaru
Immobilizer turns on for any an every little reason. Volvo will not acknowledge this car as a lemon but that is what it is! Ive paid Volvo too much and they cant even help me..smh.. Waste of time

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2008 Volvo S80 came equipped with a respectable suite of technology and safety features for its time. Standard features included a premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional features included a navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and rear parking sensors.

Driver-assistance features were also a highlight, with available options like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. These features, while not as advanced as modern systems, contributed to a safer driving experience. Volvo's focus on safety was evident in the S80's design and construction.

Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and a comprehensive airbag system, including side-impact and curtain airbags. Volvo's WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) was also standard, designed to reduce the risk of whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions.

Crash-test ratings for the 2008 Volvo S80 were generally excellent. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the S80 its "Top Safety Pick" designation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also gave the S80 high marks in its crash tests, further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. The combination of active and passive safety features made the 2008 S80 a leader in its class.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Stone
Ice White
Silver Metallic
Titanium Gray Pearl
Barents Blue Metallic
Maple Red Pearl
Quartz Sand Metallic
Interior Colors
Oyster Gray
Off-Black
Sandstone Beige

2008 Volvo S80 Prices and Market Value

The 2008 Volvo S80 had a new price range of approximately $38,000 to $50,000, depending on the trim and options. Current used market prices typically range from $4,000 to $10,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The S80 has experienced significant depreciation due to its age and the general trend of luxury sedans depreciating faster than other vehicle types. Factors affecting resale value include vehicle condition, maintenance records, mileage, and the presence of desirable options. Well-maintained examples with lower mileage command higher prices.

2008 Volvo S80 Cost of Ownership

The 2008 Volvo S80 is moderately costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are typically average for a mid-size luxury sedan. Fuel costs depend on the engine but can be high, especially for the V8. Maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average due to the vehicle's complexity and the potential for electronic issues. Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid costly repairs. While not the most economical choice, it's a reasonable option if well-maintained and purchased at a good price.

2008 Volvo S80 Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 18.5 gallons
City Mileage 15 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 23 miles/gallon

2008 Volvo S80 Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2008 Volvo S80 Recalls & Defects

Electrical System:software
Recall date 2009-09-01
Recall no. 09v343000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo IS Recalling MY 2008-2010 S80, Model Year 2009-2010 Xc70 and Model Year 2010 Xc60 Vehicles. Under Certain Conditions THE Software Within THE Central Electronic Module (Cem) MAY NOT Send A Signal TO THE Fuel Pump Electronic Module (Pem). This Missing Signal TO THE PEM Inhibits THE Start OF THE Fuel Pump. THE Driver MAY BE Able TO Start THE Engine IN Spite OF THE Fuel Pump NOT Being Activated DUE TO Residual Pressure IN THE Fuel System. IN Some Cases, THE Driver MAY BE Able TO Drive THE Vehicle A Short Distance AT Idle BUT Then THE Engine MAY Stall.
Consequence IF THE Vehicle Stalls IN Certain Conditions, A Crash Could Occur.
Remedy Dealers Will Download Software TO THE Vehicles' CEM Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 30, 2009. Vehicles IN Dealer's Inventory Will BE Repaired Prior TO Delivery. Owners MAY Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes Volvo Recall NO. R215. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:electrical:navigational System(Global Positioning System)
Recall date 2010-11-08
Recall no. 10v566000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo IS Recalling Certain Vehicles Equipped With Garmin 760 Portable Global Positioning System (Gps) Units Because THE Batteries ON Those Units MAY Overheat.
Consequence AN Overheated Battery Could Lead TO A Fire.
Remedy Volvo Advises Owners TO Please Stop Using THE Garmin Portable GPS Device Immediately, and Visit THE Garmin Website TO Determine IF Their Unit IS Affected. THE Unit's Battery Will BE Replaced With A NEW Battery and A Spacer Will BE Inserted ON Top OF THE Battery Next TO THE Pcb. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON November 18, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Garmin AT 866-957-1981 or Visit Garmin's Website AT Www.garmin.com/Nuvibatterypcbrecall.
Notes Volvo Safety Recall NO. R231.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Recall date 2008-05-06
Recall no. 08v206000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo IS Recalling 102 MY 2008 Xc90 and S80 Vehicles Equipped With V8 Engines. These Vehicles MAY Have Been Built With Incorrect Bolts TO THE Engine Mount.
Consequence THE Aluminum Bracket FOR THE Engine Mount Could Break DUE TO Lack OF Adequate Clamping Force. This Could Cause THE Engine TO Come IN Contact With THE Sub-Frame, Ultimately Resulting IN A Reduced Engine Torque or Stalling OF THE Engine Without Prior Warning, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Engine Mount Bolts FOR Specific Markings. IF ANY OF THE Bolts Contain THE Incorrect Markings, THE Bracket and Bolts Will BE Replaced. All Owners Have Been Contacted and Arrangements Have Been Made TO Repair These Vehicles.
Notes Volvo Recall NO. 197.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:cooling System:fan
Recall date 2009-06-12
Recall no. 09v218000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo IS Recalling 17,614 MY 2008-2009 S80, V70, and Xc70 Vehicles. THE Engine Cooling FAN MAY Stop Working DUE TO A Software Programming Error IN THE FAN Control Module (Fcm). Depending ON Driving Conditions, THE Customer MAY Experience Reduced AIR Conditioning Performance, And/Or Rapid Increase IN Engine Coolant Temperature.
Consequence This Situation MAY Result IN Loss OF Cooling System Function and Engine Failure. THE Driver MAY NOT Have Sufficient Time TO React TO THE Warning Light(S) or THE Text Message IN THE Instrument Panel, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE FAN Control Module Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During July 2009. Owners MAY Contact Volvo Customer Care Center AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes Volvo Recall NO. R214.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System:software
Recall date 2009-04-29
Recall no. 09v139000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo IS Recalling 12,303 MY 2007-2008 S80 and V70 Vehicles. THE Diagnostic Software IN THE Central Electronic Module (Cem) MAY Cause A Malfunction OF THE Windshield Wiper Functionality. IF This Condition Occurs, THE Windshield Wipers MAY NOT Operate When Activated; or IN Certain Cases THE Windshield Wipers MAY Activate When NOT Switched ON.
Consequence Operating A Motor Vehicle During Inclement Weather Conditions Without Functioning Windshield Wipers CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE CEM and Upgrade THE Software Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 15, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Volvo Customer Care Center AT 1-800-458-1552, or [email protected].
Notes Volvo Recall NO. R213.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Tires:pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems
Recall date 2010-07-22
Recall no. 10v335000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007-2010 S80 Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." THE Tire and Loading Information Label and A Page IN THE Owner's Manual Contain Incorrect Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure and THE Tire Pressure Monitoring System (Tpms) Software HAS AN Incorrect Trigger Level.
Consequence These Vehicles DO NOT Meet THE Required Safety Standards.
Remedy Dealers Will Update THE Vehicles With A NEW Tire and Loading Information Label, Owner's Manual Label and Tpms Software. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin ON or About August 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552 or [email protected] .
Notes Volvo Safety Recall NO. R228.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Seat Belts:front
Recall date 2020-06-30
Recall no. 20v378000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volvo Cars OF N.a., LLC (Volvo) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2016 V70 and Xc70, 2007-2016 S80, 2011-2018 S60 and V60, 2016-2018 S60 Cross Country, 2014-2020 S60l, 2009-2015 S80l, 2009-2016 Xc60 and 2015-2018 V60 Cross Country Vehicles. THE Flexible Steel Cable That Connects THE Seat Belt TO THE Front Outboard Seating Positions MAY Fatigue Over Time, Causing THE Seat Belt TO NOT Secure THE Occupant IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Consequence AN Unsecured Occupant HAS AN Increased Risk OF Injury IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Remedy Volvo Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Seat Belt Anchor Cable FOR Both Front Seats. THE Recall Began December 10, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Volvo Customer Service AT 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's Number FOR This Recall IS R10029.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2008 Volvo S80 Insurance

Insurance for a 2008 Volvo S80 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2008 Volvo S80 Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2008 Volvo S80 competed with rivals like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, and Acura TL. In terms of performance, the BMW and Mercedes offered more engaging driving dynamics. The S80 prioritized comfort and safety over sporty handling. Feature-wise, the S80 was competitive, offering comparable technology and luxury amenities. Reliability is a mixed bag; the German rivals are generally more expensive to maintain, but the Acura TL may prove more reliable overall.

In terms of price, the S80 is generally more affordable on the used market than the German competitors. However, the Acura TL presents a compelling alternative, offering similar levels of luxury and features with potentially better reliability and lower maintenance costs. The Lexus ES 350 is another strong contender known for its reliability and comfortable ride. While the Volvo S80 offers a unique blend of Swedish design and safety, the Acura TL and Lexus ES 350 may be better choices for buyers prioritizing long-term reliability and lower running costs.

Overall, the S80 provides a unique experience focused on comfort and safety, but the German rivals offer sportier handling, and the Japanese rivals boast greater reliability and lower cost of ownership.

Ranks #1858 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
1858 2008 Volvo S80 (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Volvo S80 a Good Sedan?

The 2008 Volvo S80 is ideal for buyers seeking a comfortable, safe, and understated luxury sedan. It's worth buying used if you prioritize safety and a smooth ride and are willing to accept potentially higher maintenance costs. Look for well-maintained examples with detailed service records. The 3.2L inline-6 offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy. Avoid neglected vehicles with high mileage and questionable maintenance history. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly recommended to assess its overall condition and potential repair needs. If reliability is your top concern, other options in its class might be more suitable.

2008 Volvo S80 Owner Reviews

4.63
Consumer Rating, Based on 29 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Vnessaru on October 1, 2020

Dont ever buy it

Immobilizer turns on for any an every little reason. Volvo will not acknowledge this car as a lemon but that is what it is! Ive paid Volvo too much and they cant even help me..smh.. Waste of time

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Jem on December 9, 2019

Great Road Trip Machine

Just purchased this used and drove 1100 miles home through the rain and snow. 2 days in the car and no stiffness or pain, an unusual thing at my age! Quiet, fast and extremely comfortable.

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Brendan Hilton on November 3, 2019

I basically spend $3000 a month on repairs.

This car is so amazing! It is so luxurious, sporty, and that is where it stops. It is a nearly weekly occurrence that I have to take the dang car to the dealer to get it worked on! I bought it new, and it has always been this way! But, it did last me all this time even though I spent about how much my house is worth on it! About 2 years ago, the dang sedan would not unlock. Thank God my wife left the sunroof half open, and I let my son crawl on top of the car, but he couldn't make it inside, so after about 15 minutes, he opened the door handle with his foot! Such an annoying car! I just bought a Palisade, and it is the best car I have ever owned! We are selling the car though.

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NormanC on July 5, 2019

High value package, not common, love her!

Loved my prior Saab, swedish cars just seem to speak to me! Asian cars are so common, domestics have become unreliable, and Germans cost a fortune to repair. Viva Svenska!

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VolvoFan on June 8, 2019

Comfortable, reliable, useful

Great driving. Comfortable for occupants. Great features. With rear seats folded down, could fit 2x10's, 10 ft long, in car with trunk lid closed. Very reliable, never left me stopped/stranded. Still has great styling long after new.

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Boberto on December 14, 2018

Not the most reliable, but quick in a straight lin

It hasn't been the most reliable with 5 issues I had to fix over one year. The AC is also filled with mold so it smells REAL bad. It's a very comfortable cruiser with heated seats and a nice radio. It being the turbo AWD model it's also got some real get up and go.

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Driver Of Understated Cars on October 19, 2018

A Sleeper Pick Among European Luxury

After years of Lincoln Town Cars, I decided I wanted something different that was stylish & comfortable (boy will a Town Car spoil you). Had it pretty much narrowed down to the Lexus & Infiniti. The Lexus fell by the wayside since they were too common. That left the Infiniti M35 AWD. Not having much luck finding one, the S80 came up as another car to consider. After doing some research, the price savings for the S80 versus virtually all other luxury sedans in that size was CRAZY. Got lucky, found a very clean, very well maintained S80 that I was able to get at a great price. No regrets what so ever & being the flagship car for Volvo (now replaced by the S90) you don't see them everywhere like the S40 or S60. On top of that I got the T6 (6cyl, AWD, Turbo) & of course the legendary SAFETY of Volvo!!!

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bestill on June 12, 2018

Nice car for the year

This car met my needs. It has lots of legroom in the front and back seat area of the vehicle. The horn could be stronger, but I was told that for that year and model the horn has a light sound. Other than that it will suffice.

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NYPete on May 12, 2018

2008 Volvo S80 T6 AWD

2008 Volvo S80 T6 AWD is an awesome looking sports sedan. Fun and comfortable to drive. It is a great daily driver, always reliable. Right there with Audi A6 and BMW 5

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Pram on February 9, 2018

Love this Car

Super nice car!!! Comfort, power, and realizable!!! I fell in love with this car the first time I drove it!!!! Fun car to dive with the peice of mind that you are in a safe car!!

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Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.