Why is my Volvo S80's gearbox getting stiff?

I have a Volvo S80. Sometimes, when I push from second gear to first, it gets brushy or stiff. When I stop the engine and put it in reverse, it clears. Why?

Does the Volvo XC70 have any known turbocharger issues?

I am thinking of buying a Volvo XC70 205 diesel. Are there any potential problems with the turbos I should know about?

Is it normal for Audi TTs to use oil?

My brother has bought a brand new Audi TT and it is using oil - Audi say this is normal. We have a 142,000-mile Volvo V70 diesel and it never uses oil. I believe it indicates a problem with the Audi -...

What effect will changing my Volvo V70's wheel size have on the ride quality?

I have a 2008 Volvo V70, the current model. On its 17-inch wheels the ride is very firm and quality tyres for it are very expensive. I have costed up buying a set of 16-inch wheels when the tyres next...

Right key, wrong keyhole

You recommend running at higher revs to help a DPF to regenerate. I drive a Volvo V70 AWD 2.4d. At 2,000 rpm I travel at 60 mph. At 2,300 rpm I travel at 70 mph. How do you suggest I exceed the speed limit...

Can you recommend a small, 'premium' car with more space than a BMW MINI?

My mother currently has a BMW MINI (her second) and she really likes the quality, quirkiness and reliability of the car. However it is now used as an only car for her and my dad, and is not big enough...

Downsizing

My current car is a 2006 Volvo S40 1.6D. It has 17' wheels with 205 x 50 x R17 93w tyres fitted. I have no complaints except that the ride is a little hard. Would it improve if I fitted 16" wheels and,...

Which mid-size estate for £6000? I'm looking at the Volkswagen Passat, the Volvo V50 and the Volvo V70.

I'm looking for a mid-size estate for general motorway use, but also for outdoor gear and to carry kayaks on the roof - perhaps even to sleep in the back with the seats down (I'm six feet tall). I've narrowed...

Should I buy a petrol or diesel Alfa Romeo 159, Volvo S40 or Saab 9-3 for short trips?

I have a 10-year-old petrol Volkswagen Passat which I'd like to replace with something newer, no more than six years old. I have been looking at diesel Alfa Romeos, Volvos and Saabs but I'm beginning to...

Shrink wrapped

I am writing to seek your advice about the purchase of a new Volvo S80 DRIVe and would appreciate your views about the current quality of Volvo cars. I am taking one out for a test drive tomorrow and from...