At every Volvo assembly plant, quality is the priority, zero defects are the objective.

It's part of our Scandinavian heritage that things be made to last. Perhaps the most visible expression of Volvo quality is the continued durability of Volvos that were built a decade ago. According to a recent independent study by Polk, the median life expectancy of all Volvos in service is 18.6 years. And Volvo is the only car company with a High Mileage Club.

Details, considered small by other standards, are of great importance by ours. Processes along a Volvo assembly line include unique innovations that eliminate room for error.

Consider our paint and rust-proofing processes: During construction, every critical joint receives a zinc welding primer. Body components are assembled to extremely precise standards and caulking compounds seal all body joints. A corrosion-resistant zinc coating is applied to all areas of the car susceptible to rust. The body is etched with an acid spray to give the primer a firm grip. But we are not satisfied with simply immersing the body in primer. Going an extra step, we apply opposite electric charges to the body and primer. The result is an attraction that creates bonds of optimum thickness and exceptional uniformity. In all, seven layers of primers, sealers and coatings are applied. Special polyester-based formulas are applied to the lower parts of the body to help protect against chipping. To further reduce corrosion, anticorrosive gel is sprayed into body sections that can trap moisture. Engine and suspension systems are sprayed with a rust-proofing oil. Finally, the inner fenders, which receive a relentless assault from road grit, sand, stones and salt, are protected by fender liners installed in all four wheel wells.

Impressive facts like these demonstrate another Volvo theme: that quality is an underlying principle of everything we do.