350,000 miles on my Volvo, really? REALLY!


Well, my beloved Sven a 1986 240GL Volvo sedan has made a milestone. The odometer read as of 2/6/13 350,006 miles. This is the only car I have ever owned. No GPS, no bells and whistles. Sven does have power steering, electric windows and I upgraded the stereo system years ago. But basically he is a tank. One reliable guy. We have traveled all over the Bay Area together for 20 years now. I knew nothing about cars when I came to California from Manhattan in 1993. My parents never owned a car, no need in New York and I truly never cared about cars. But, when one moves to car country one must do as the romans do. California is the land of cars. I still know nothing about cars and completely surrender my power to my mechanic, Victor, who is so terrific. He will always rearrange his schedule to help me knowing how I depend on Sven to groom all my clients’ dogs.

Please enjoy Kent’s Kanines Welcome Video showcasing Sven in action.

Sven still has the original engine believe it or not! I did have to replace the transmission years ago and most recently an engine harness and of course, minor things but he still runs beautifully. I never thought I would still have him but, I cannot even imagine driving another car. I get him detailed regularly. I even have the engine steam cleaned every two years too!! I will go into a supermarket to buy groceries and when I come out there will be a little note under the windshield wiper asking if “ever I sell my car to call this number, PLEASE.” It always makes me smile. Yes, I would like a groovy, brand new, totally tricked out vehicle but, until he takes his last breath, I will drive him proudly. We are a team!