Here's a few 850 stories:

http://www.brickboard.com/AWD/?id=626822

http://www.brickboard.com/AWD/index.htm?id=626858

"850's are terribly unreliable compared to earlier models.

Common problems are:

AC Evap Cannister
Heater Blower Motor
Radiator Fans
Thermostats
ABS Control Module
Rear Main Seal

Aside from that, other annoyances are lousy power antennas, door panels that peel, roof rails that peel, wipers that do not make contact with the glass, winshield moldings fall out, washer sprayers clog up constantly, my alternator died as well as my starter, sunroof leaked, synchros were messed up in 2nd gear,A/C never worked right, etc. etc. etc. It was at least $500 each time the car went in. Oh, I stand corrected, the remote for the doors was only $90. "

Might want to take a look at these stories and others.

-Sam

PS: That 5-cylinder engine's on borrowed time if it's still on the original T-belt at 85K miles. I hope your friends do it (the belt, lol) ASAP.