Volvo 240 problems
The Volvo 200 Series (or 240 and 260 Series) is a range of mid-size cars produced by Swedish company Volvo Cars from 1974 until 1993, with more than 2.8 million total units sold worldwide. Like the Volvo 140 Series (1966 to 1974), from which it was developed, it was designed by Jan Wilsgaard.
The series overlapped production of the Volvo 700 Series (1982 to 1992). As the 240 Series remained popular, only the 260 Series was displaced by the 700 Series, which Volvo marketed alongside the 240 for another decade. The 700 was replaced by the 900 Series in 1992, a year before the 240 was discontinued. Production of the 240 ended on 14 May 1993, after nearly 20 years, with the basic platform and architecture lasting 27 years, if the production run of the original 140 Series is aggregated.
History
The Volvo 240 and 260 series were introduced in the autumn of 1974, and was initially available as six variations of the 240 Series (242L, 242DL, 244DL, 244GL, 245L and 245DL) and two variations of the 260 Series (264DL and 264GL). The 240 Series was available as a sedan (with two or four doors) or a station wagon, however, the 260 Series was available as a coupé (262C Bertone), two-door sedan, four-door sedan, or station wagon. The 200 looked much like the earlier 140 and 164, they shared the same basic body shell and were largely identical from the cowl rearward. However, the 200 incorporated many of the features and design elements tried in the Volvo VESC ESV in 1972, which was a prototype experiment in car safety. The overall safety of the driver and passengers in the event of a crash was greatly improved with very large front and rear end crumple zones. Another main change was the new engines offered, which were of an overhead cam design based on the earlier B20. The 260 series also received a V6 engine in lieu of the 164's inline-six.
The 200 Series had MacPherson strut-type front suspension, which increased room around the engine bay, while the rear suspension was a modified version of that fitted to the 140 Series. The steering was greatly improved with the introduction of rack-and-pinion steering, with power steering fitted as standard to the 244GL, 264DL and 264GL, and there were some modifications made to the braking system (in particular the master cylinder).
The front end of the car was also completely restyled with a "shovel nose" which closely resembled that of the VESC prototype vehicle – that being the most obvious change which made the 200 Series distinguishable from the earlier 140 and 160 Series. Other than all the changes mentioned above, the 200 Series was almost identical to the 140 and 160 Series from the bulkhead to the very rear end. In 1978, a facelift meant a redesigned rear end for sedans, with wraparound taillights and a trunk opening with a lower lip. The dashboard was derived from the safety fascia introduced for the 1973 model year 100 Series - the main change for the 200 Series was the adoption of slatted "egg crate" style air vents in place of the eyeball style vents used in the 140/160 and the square clock. All models were available with a choice of four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission. Overdrive was also optional on the manual 244GL, while a five-speed manual gearbox was optional on the 264GL and 265GL.
In the autumn of 1975 (for the 1976 model year in America), the 265 DL estate became available alongside the existing range, and this was the first production Volvo estate to be powered by a six-cylinder engine. The choice of gearboxes was also improved, with overdrive now available as an option in all manual models except the base-model 242L and 245L. As before, a three-speed automatic was optional in every model. The B21A engine gained three horsepower; a new steering wheel and gearknob were also introduced.
At the 1976 Paris Motor Show Bertone first showed the stretched 264 TE, a seven-seat limousine on a 3,430 mm (135.0 in) wheelbase, although it had entered production earlier. The raw bodies were sent from Sweden to Grugliasco for lengthening, reinforcing, and finishing. Carl XVI Gustav of Sweden used one, as did much of East Germany's political leadership.
For 1977 the B19A engine with 90 PS (66 kW) replaced the B20A in most markets, although the old pushrod type soldiered on for another two years in some places. This is also the year that the sportier 242 GT arrived.
In 1978 the grille was altered, now with a chrome surround. Rear view mirrors were now black, while the front seats were changed as were the emblems, while interval wipers were introduced. 1978 models were also the first 240s to receive a new paint formula, to help solve the severe rust problems in previous model years.
The 1979 model year brought a full facelift front and rear, the most obvious change being the adoption of flush fitting square headlamps on the DL or rectangular headlamps on the GL, GLE in place of the recessed circular units. The sedans received new wraparound rear lamp clusters and a restyled leading edge to the trunk lid, while the rear of the wagons remained unchanged. The GLE was added while the L was cancelled, and the six-cylinder diesel arrived late in the year. For 1980, the sporty GLT arrived, replacing the GT. For 1981 there was yet another new grille, while the station wagons received new, wraparound taillights. The B21A gained some four horsepower, now 106 PS (78 kW), while the carburetted B23A with 112 PS (82 kW) was introduced in some markets. The Turbo arrived, while six-cylinder models now had a more powerful 2.8-liter engine. 1981 also saw the dashboard altered significantly, which a much larger binnacle in order to bring the radio and clock within the driver's line of sight. The instrument pod itself, which had been unaltered since the 1973 model year 100 Series, was also redesigned.
Incremental improvements were made almost every year of the production run. One of the major improvements was the introduction of the oxygen sensor in North America in late 1976 (1977 models), which Volvo called Lambda Sond and developed in conjunction with Bosch. It added a feedback loop to the Jetronic fuel injection system already in use, which allowed fine-tuning of the air and fuel mixture and therefore produced superior emissions, drivability and fuel economy.
For the 1983 model year, Volvo dropped the DL and GLE labels, selling the cars simply as 240s. In the domestic Swedish market, the 240 could be had with a 2.1 or 2.3-liter engine (more options were available in export), but the bigger engine always came coupled with a five-speed transmission and tinted windows. The 1983s also received wider side trim and all models had the larger taillights introduced on the previous year's GLT model. A B23E-engined GLE variant was also added (not available with two doors). Buyers protested against the lack of grades and they returned for 1984. A new manual gearbox also arrived for 1984, while a four-speed automatic option was available in the GL. The GLT and Turbo versions received a taller grille.
While Volvo had been planning to discontinue the 200-series since the early 1980s, the design kept selling well and Volvo provided steady updates. In late 1991, for the 1992 model year, it received 160 detail improvements including changes to the heater controls, heated rear view mirrors, and revised front seats. For the final, 1993 model year, air conditioning units were upgraded to use R-134a rather than the ozone-depleting R-12 (Freon).
About one-third of all 240s sold were station wagons, which featured very large cargo space of 41 cubic feet (1.2 m3). They could be outfitted with a rear-facing foldable jumpseat in the passenger area, making the wagon a seven-passenger vehicle. The jumpseat came with three-point seat belts, and wagons were designed to have a reinforced floor section, protecting the occupants of the jumpseat in the event of a rear-end collision.
A 1993 Volvo 240DL was driven by IKEA founder Ingvar Kamprad, who stopped driving it when he was told the car was too dangerous due to outdated safety design two decades later.
The last 200 produced was a blue station wagon built to the Italian specification and named the "Polar Italia", currently displayed at the Volvo World Museum. It was manufactured the 14th May 1993.
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Volvo 240 model years
Common Volvo 240 problems
The Volvo 240 is known for its robust build and durability, but like any other vehicle, it has its common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the Volvo 240, based on complaints from owners:
- Worn Air Intake Hose & Air Box Thermostats: The air intake hose and air box thermostats can wear out or fail, causing unfiltered air to enter the engine and affecting cold start performance.
- Fuel Injection Relay: The main fuel pump relay can fail, causing intermittent or no start issues.
- Main Fuses: The main fuse box is prone to corrosion and can cause numerous problems, including intermittent or no start issues.
- Heater Blower Motor: The heater blower motor can fail, requiring replacement, which can take 3-4 hours for an experienced mechanic.
- Lumbar Support Systems: The lumbar support systems in the seats can fail between 50-100,000 miles, causing discomfort for drivers.
- Motor & Transmission Mounts: The engine and transmission mounts can wear out quickly, requiring regular replacement.
- Odometer Gear: The plastic gear that drives the odometer can split, causing erratic or complete loss of odometer & trip meter function.
- Transmission Overdrive Inoperative: The transmission overdrive can become inoperative, causing upshift arrow to stay on all the time.
- Blown Fuses: The Volvo 240 is known for its tendency to blow fuses due to the fuse box's location under the dashboard, making it easier for exterior water to make its way in and cause corrosion.
It's important to note that these issues are not necessarily indicative of poor design or defects, but rather common problems that can arise in any vehicle, especially those that have been on the road for a long time. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or address these issues before they become major problems.
Is the Volvo 240 a reliable car?
The 240 is 100% reliable and is built VERY strong. It was designed for safety, and it was designed for reliability.
Was there any known issues with the Volvo 240?
The 240 is notorious for having an awesome heater, however, the heater blower motor is buried in the deepest confines of the dash, almost like Volvo built the car around the heater motor, and over time can experience bearing failure, leading to an ear-piercing squeal, or all-out failure.
What is the life expectancy of a Volvo 240?
What is Volvo 240 lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Volvo 240 is 380,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
Why is the Volvo 240 so popular?
More than anything else, it was the car's crash safety properties combined with the fine driving characteristics which attracted attention when the car appeared on the market the world over. for Highway Safety, IIHS, cited the Volvo 240 Estate as the safest car on the American market.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volvo 240 years
We have researched Volvo problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volvo 240 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volvo 240 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volvo 240 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volvo 240 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volvo 240 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volvo 240 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volvo 240 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 240 model years
A total of 18 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 240 model years
There were a total of 7 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 240 model years
There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 117 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volvo 240 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volvo 240 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volvo 240 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2018-03-22
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1AA8843M1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: "TAKATA RECALL" UNKNOWN
Volvo 240 1986
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-22
- Date Complaint: 2017-06-02
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YV1AX8840G1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I OWNED A 1986 240 GL VOLVO 4 DOOR SEDAN. ONE NIGHT LAST MONTH MY WIFE WAS DRIVING HOME AND WITHIN A BLOCK OF OUR HOUSE SHE NOTICED A FIRE ON THE BACK OF THE CAR. THE DRIVER'S SIDE TAIL LIGHT WAS ON FIRE. I CONTACTED VOLVO USA AND ABOUT A MONTH LATER THEY HAD AN "EXPERT" INSPECT OUR CAR. THEY WILL NOT GIVE ME A WRITTEN REPORT. THE EXECUTIVE, JOSEPH ([email protected]) CALLED ME AND LEFT A MESSAGE SAYING THAT WE HAD TOO LARGE OF A FUSE IN THE FUSE BLOCK AND THIS IS WHAT CAUSED THE FIRE. I'VE TRIED REPEATEDLY TO TELL THEM THAT TOO LARGE OF A FUSE DIDN'T CAUSE THE DEAD SHORT FIRE ON OUR TAIL LIGHT. I GOOGLED TAIL LIGHT FIRES ON VOLVO'S AND FOUND SEVERAL PAGES. I'VE HAD TO SCRAP THE CAR. THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER WASN'T SHOCKED TO SEE THE MELTED TAIL LIGHT ON MY VOLVO. HE TOLD ME HE HAD A 1984 VOLVO JUST LIKE MINE AS HIS FIRST CAR. HE SAID HIS TOO HAD THE SAME MELTED TAIL LIGHT FIRE AS MINE.
Volvo 240 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2015-10-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: I JUST SAW ON THE NEWS ABOUT SEATS FALLING BACK DURING ACCIDENT WHEN I WAS HIT BY A TRACTOR-TRAILER IN 2002 TWO VOLVO 240 MY SEAT WENT ALL THE WAY BACK LIKE THE NEWS SHOWED LUCKILY NO ONE WAS IN THE REAR SEAT
Volvo 240 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-06
- Date Complaint: 2014-11-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YV1AA8855L1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1990 VOLVO 240 WAGON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BATTERY WAS CONTINUOUSLY FAILING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A SERVICE STATION FOR INSPECTION. THE MECHANIC ADVISED THE CONTACT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE INTO THE SERVICE BAY AREA. AS SOON AS SHE SHIFTED FROM PARK, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES BUT THE VEHICLE DID NOT RESPOND. THE CONTACT MADE A HARD LEFT TURN TO AVOID CRASHING INTO THE FRONT ENTRANCE OF THE SHOP AND CRASHED INTO A WALL INSTEAD. THE BUILDING IMMEDIATELY BECAME FILLED WITH WHITE SMOKE AND A STRONG ODOR OF BURNING RUBBER. THE VEHICLE ONLY CAME TO A STOP DUE TO THE OBSTRUCTIONS BUT WAS STILL ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE. THE CONTACT HAD TO BE EXTRACTED FROM THE VEHICLE BY EMERGENCY RESPONDERS WITH A SLEDGE HAMMER, AND THE WALL HAD TO BE OPENED IN ORDER TO REMOVE THE CONTACT FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS STILL ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE WHEN THE CONTACT WAS REMOVED. HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO MOVE ANY FURTHER DUE TO THE OBSTRUCTION OF THE WALL. THE AMBULANCE ARRIVED TO THE SCENE BUT BECAUSE THE CONTACT WAS IN A STATE OF SHOCK, REFUSED MEDICAL TRANSPORT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT. THE FAILURE WAS NEITHER DIAGNOSED NOR DUPLICATED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 129,000.
Volvo 240 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-06
- Date Complaint: 2014-10-27
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1AA8855L1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1990 VOLVO 240. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN SHIFTING FROM PARK, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ACCELERATE AND THE BRAKES FAILED. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE GLASS DOORS OF THE AUTO DEPARTMENT AND THROUGH THE BUILDING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 129,000. UPDATED 01/05/14*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS INITIALLY BROUGHT IN FOR REPAIRS DUE TO THE VEHICLE CONSTANTLY SHUTTING OFF.*JS
Volvo 240 1988
- Date Of Incident: 1992-04-07
- Date Complaint: 2014-10-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING TO WORK AND IT WAS DARK AND FOGGY. I WAS GOING SLOWLY AROUND A CURVE, AT THE SPEED LIMIT ABOUT 20MPH, AND A TEENAGE DRIVER, DRIVING ALONE WITHOUT A PERMIT DROVE THROUGH A YIELD SIGN FROM THE RIGHT DIRECTLY INTO MY PATH. I HAD ABOUT 8 FEET TO STOP AND COULD NOT, AND T-BONED INTO THE DRIVERS SIDE. I HAD MY SEAT BELT ON BUT I WAS THROWN FORWARD AND MY HEAD HIT THE WINDSHIELD AND MY HEAD LEFT A SWELL IN THE WINDSHIELD, LIKE A LUMP OR DENT, AND THE GLASS WAS SHATTERED SOMEWHAT BUT ALL STILL INTACT. NONE THE LESS I REMAINED CONSCIIOUS BUT STILL HAD A MINOR CONCUSSION WHICH GAVE ME HEADACHES FOR UP TO ABOUT 8 WEEKS AFTERWARDS. I SOUGHT MEDICAL ATTENTION BUT THEY FELT THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO BUT SAID TO COME BACK IF IT GOT WORSE. I REMEMBER THAT I OFTEN WONDERED IF THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE SEATBELT. IT WOULD SOMETIMES LOCK WHEN I PUT IT ON, BUT SOMETIMES, AND FREQUENTLY IT DID NOT LOCK IN. THAT IS EVEN THOUGH IT LOCKED INTO THE CLAMP, IT WAS OFTEN STILL LOOSE. SO ANYWAY IT WAS LOOSE AND DIDN'T RESTRAIN ME THAT TIME WHEN I NEEDED IT. I DON'T KNOW AFTER ALL THESE YEARS IF THERE ARE TOO MANY OF THESE ON THE ROAD. *TR
Volvo 240 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-17
- Date Complaint: 2011-12-20
- VIN: YV1AX8843K1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1989 VOLVO 240 DL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT DIFFERENTIAL FLUID WAS LEAKING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHO CONFIRMED THE FAILURE AND ALSO DISCOVERED THAT THERE WAS CORROSION NEAR THE REAR AXLE AND DIFFERENTIAL COVER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 140,000.
Volvo 240 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2011-10-30
- VIN: 1GCEV14H5HF
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: GOODYEAR VIVA 2 TIRES FROM WALMART HAVE GONE OUT-OF-ROUND REPEATEDLY. THE MECHANICS AT ANOTHER TIRE SHOP SAY THEY SEE THIS ALL THE TIME WITH WALMART GOODYEARS. I GAVE UP ON WARRANTY REPLACEMENTS, SINCE THEY ALSO FAIL, AND I HAVE TWO DAUGHTERS AND A WIFE DRIVING THESE CARS WITH FAILING TIRES. I SACRIFICED THE WARRANTIES AND PUT KUMHOS ON THE CARS. I HAVE 6 VOLVO 240S AND ALL OF THEM HAVE HAD FAILURES OF WALMART TIRES. GOODYEAR, DOUGLAS AND UNIROYAL. 185 -70 - 14. IN EVERY CASE THE TIRES GO OUT-OF-ROUND AND CANNOT BE BALANCED. THEY WOBBLE AND SHAKE, BECAUSE OF BUBBLES IN THE SIDEWALLS AND THE TREAD FACE, OR FLAT SPOTS IN THE TREAD FACE, WHERE THE BELTS OR BANDS INSIDE THE TIRE ARE SEPARATING AND THE TIRE STRUCTURE ITSELF IS FAILING. IN EVERY CASE THE TIRES ARE A FEW MONTHS OLD AND STILL HAVE THE BRAND NEW MOLD NIPPLES, AND THE TREAD DEPTH IS ALMOST BRAND NEW. I HAVE TAKEN THE CARS TO FRONT END ALIGNMENT SHOPS AND NONE OF THEM NEEDED SUSPENSION PARTS OR ALIGNMENT - IT HAS BEEN TIRE FAILURE SHAKING THE CARS. I HAVE HAD AT LEAST 8 OF THESE TIRES FAIL IN THIS MANNER. *TR
Volvo 240 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-17
- Date Complaint: 2010-12-20
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS 1989 VOLVO 240 DL. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE GASKETS OF THE WALKER PART NUMBER 35145 EXHAUST RUBBER INSULATOR HANGERS FOR THE REAR MUFFLER HAD CRACKED AND DISINTEGRATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000.
Volvo 240 1987
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2010-04-13
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: DEFECTIVE REPLACEMENT HEADLAMP FIXTURE PARTS (NON-COMPLIANT WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS CRASH AVOIDANCE - STANDARD NO. 108 IN PART 571). THESE REPLACEMENT HEADLAMP FIXTURES (RIGHT AND LEFT) WERE PURCHASED FOR A 1987 VOLVO 240 WAGON. NOTE THESE SAME LAMP FIXTURES ARE USED IN VARIOUS TRUCKS AND RVS. BOTH THE LEFT AND RIGHT HAND VERSIONS OF THESE NEW PARTS LACKED MUCH OF THE SILVER REFLECTIVE COATING AROUND THE BULB AREA, SUGGESTING THIS IS RECURRING QUALITY CONTROL PROBLEM. JPEG PHOTOS ARE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST SHOWING HEADLAMP LIGHT ILLUMINATING THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT THROUGH THE UNSILVERED PARTS OF THE REFLECTORS. SO MUCH SILVER COATING IS MISSING FROM THE LEFT SIDE FIXTURE, THE UNLIT HEADLIGHT BULB CAN BE SEEN THROUGH THE REFLECTOR! THE PARTS ARE LABELED ACROSS THE BOTTOM OF THE LENS AS "DJAUTO MVV111-C1RO (FOR RIGHT SIDE OR C1LO FOR THE LEFT SIDE) 14V 7H DOT SAE HR00" WITH "HB1" IN THE UPPER OUTSIDE CORNERS. THESE PARTS WERE PURCHASED FROM LAMPSANDLENSES - MVP IMPORTS, LLC - FRANK'S FOREIGN AUTO, 595 VALLEY STREET, ORANGE, NJ 07050, TEL # 973-674-2254 ON 10/22/09. A COPY OF THE RECEIPT IS AVAILABLE. NOTE PARTS ARRIVED IN UNLABELED PLAIN BROWN BOXES AND COST $69.99 EACH OR $139.98 TOTAL. *TR
Volvo 240 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-23
- Date Complaint: 2009-06-24
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1989 VOLVO 240. THE VEHICLE HAS GOODYEAR EAGLE GPH TIRES, SIZE P195/65/R15 (NA). WHILE DRIVING LESS THAN 60 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE SOUND WAS SIMILAR TO A FLAPPING NOISE AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN PERFORMING DIFFERENTLY. SHE PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER AND NOTICED THAT THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE WAS SHREDDED AROUND THE ENTIRE CIRCUMFERENCE OF THE TIRE. THERE WERE NO RECALLS LISTED FOR HER PARTICULAR TIRE SIZE; HOWEVER, THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE P195/60/R15 SIZE TIRE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE LESS THAN 16,000.
Volvo 240 1988
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-24
- Date Complaint: 2008-01-14
- VIN: YV1BX4549B1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1988 VOLVO 240. THE VEHICLE HAS GOODYEAR INTEGRITY, SIZE 175/70R13 TIRES. SIX MONTHS AFTER PURCHASING NEW TIRES, THEY DEFLATED. THE CONTACT RETURNED TO WHERE SHE PURCHASED THE TIRES TO HAVE THEM INFLATED. THE TIRES WERE ROTATED AND INFLATED AGAIN FIVE DAYS LATER. THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE TIRES. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 228,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 222,350. UPDATED 02-14-08. *KB UPDATED 02/14/08 *TR
Volvo 240 1988
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-04
- Date Complaint: 2007-01-10
- VIN: YV1AX8849J1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*- THE CONTACT OWNS A1988 VOLVO 240 DL. THE REAR CAMSHAFT SEAL FAILED. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING AT 45 MPH UNDER DRY CONDITIONS WHEN HE SMELLED SMOKE. THE CONTACT THEN PULLED OVER AN LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD AND SAW OIL LEAKING ON THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HIS HOME WHERE HE FOUND THAT THE REAR CAMSHAFT SEAL HAD FAILED. THE CONTACT ORDERED THE PART FROM THE DEALER AND REPAIRED IT. *AK UPDATED 02/13/07. *JB
Volvo 240 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-02
- Date Complaint: 2006-02-04
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YV1AA8845M1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR WAS IN DRIVEWAY WARMING UP PRIOR TO DRIVING FOR SCHOOL. AFTER ABOUT 5 TO 10 MINUTES DASH CAUGHT FIRE AND FLAMES WERE COMING FOR HEATER VENTS. USED A GARDEN HOSE TO EXTINGUISH FIRE AND FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED. DASH AND INTERIOR WAS DAMAGED BUY SMOKE, WATER AND FIRE. *NM
Volvo 240 1988
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2005-10-06
- VIN: YV1AX8843J1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE OUTER FACING ON THE GLOVE BOX FELL OFF WHILE CONSUMER WAS DRIVING ON A LOCAL ROADWAY. *TS THE FACING WAS ONLY SECURED TO THE METAL BACKING WITH AN ADHESIVE. THE CONSUMER FELLS THAT IF A PASSENGER HAD BEEN SITTING IN THE SEAT THEY WOULD HAVE SUSTAIN KNEE/LEG INJURIES BECAUSE THE FACING WEIGHS 1 LB 9 OZ. *NM
Recalls Volvo 240
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Volvo 240.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volvo 240 1985
- Report Received Date: 1986-09-15
- Manufacturer: VOLVO OF AMERICA CORP.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: IN THE EVENT OF A LOW SPEED FRONTAL IMPACT, ENGINE MOVEMENT COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE CABLE SLEEVE TO BE PULLED OUT OF THE ADJUSTING FITTING AND NOT RETURN TO ITS ORIGINAL POSITION OR IDLE POSITION. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: IF THIS OCCURS AN INCREASE IN ENGINE SPEED WOULD RESULT, MAKING CAR DIFFICULT TO CONTROL IN A POST COLLISION ENVIRONMENT, WHICH CAN CAUSE MORE SERIOUS DAMAGE AND/OR INJURIES.
- Remedy: REPLACE THROTTLE CABLES.
- Model: Volvo 240 1986
- Report Received Date: 1986-09-15
- Manufacturer: VOLVO OF AMERICA CORP.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: IN THE EVENT OF A LOW SPEED FRONTAL IMPACT, ENGINE MOVEMENT COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE CABLE SLEEVE TO BE PULLED OUT OF THE ADJUSTING FITTING AND NOT RETURN TO ITS ORIGINAL POSITION OR IDLE POSITION. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: IF THIS OCCURS AN INCREASE IN ENGINE SPEED WOULD RESULT, MAKING CAR DIFFICULT TO CONTROL IN A POST COLLISION ENVIRONMENT, WHICH CAN CAUSE MORE SERIOUS DAMAGE AND/OR INJURIES.
- Remedy: REPLACE THROTTLE CABLES.
Latest negative Volvo 240 car reviews
Latest positive Volvo 240 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1991
I love Volvos! Your story about the station wagon saving your life is amazing. It's great to hear that you immediately bought another Volvo, this time a sedan. The euro style is so cool and unique, and I agree that the boxy design adds to its charm. Plus, the fact that it's rear-wheel drive means you don't have to worry about axles and boots going bad. And with the engine not being crossed from right to left, there's plenty of space to work on it. It's great that you were able to replace the starter and do a tune-up yourself. Overall, Volvos are known for their solid design, roominess, and reliability. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 1992
This car is incredibly reliable and durable, even if you don't take the best care of it. It has impressive speed capabilities, although you'll likely never need to push it to its limits. Additionally, its fuel economy is excellent, averaging around 28 miles per gallon. The best part is that these cars are often sold for very reasonable prices. Many people sell them simply because of minor issues like a flat tire, blown fuse, or old spark plugs, or because they've upgraded to a newer model. Regular oil changes and fluid checks are all that seem to be required to keep this car running smoothly.
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Vehicle year: 1993
My boyfriend had one in his garage for about a year before I bought mine. Even though he didn't drive it, he refused to sell it to me because he was too attached. Now I have my own. It's such a wonderful car! I absolutely love the boxy (but not too boxy like 740s) look. It runs great and is really comfortable. I can always rely on it.
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Vehicle year: 1993
I've owned four different Volvo models over the years: a '90 240 wagon, a '99 XC, an '04 XC, and just last week I purchased a '93 240 Classic 4-door sedan. In total, I've driven these cars for over 650,000 miles! These cars are truly unbeatable, and all the women in my family swear by them. The only downside is that if you're over 6 feet tall, it can be a bit of a struggle to get in and out of them. However, as long as you take care of them by undercoating and cleaning out the drainage ports, rust shouldn't be an issue. I highly recommend buying one of these cars while you still can! That's a fact, Jack!
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Vehicle year: 1992
Above all, it should be noted that a well-maintained 1991 Volvo can run forever, but if maintenance has been shoddy, all bets are off. However, I absolutely love this car! I find myself thinking about it all too often while driving, whether it's because of its surprising uphill pulling power, its ability to fit an astonishing amount of stuff in the back of the wagon, or simply the general comfort of the ride. That's saying a lot, considering that the 240 is not really anyone's idea of a comfortable, powerful car, but from the correct perspective, it is nothing short of a treat. The 240 is full of surprises that make it a joy to drive. Right off the line, the 240 may seem like a bit of a lazy beast, but once the 5-speed hits its stride around 35, it has plenty of big, lazy power. This car may never spin its tires, but it keeps up with traffic perfectly well. Despite being a 25-year-old wagon, it feels stable and assured even at 100mph on the interstate. The heavy comfort of the car, which feels like a poor man's Mercedes, applies all around - whether cruising the main strip or taking a weekend jaunt on curvy 2-lane highways. The car is definitely NOT a sport coupe, but it feels so good - heavy, smooth, and surefooted. The rear-wheel drive is great, absolutely amazing in snow, which is where half of the TANK comes from. The other half is pure build quality. The car is solid, overbuilt to hell, and full of big clunky metal parts. It isn't unfair to say the car is full of simple 1970s engineering, but here it is a compliment.In our modern era of puffy plastic lozenges, a spare, hard, pure steel box stands out both for its unusual, utilitarian appearance and brilliant security. This car will take a thrashing, and come out running like a champ. Volvos have saved countless lives - yes, safety technology has come leaps and bounds since 1991, but these are the cars that safety standards were once measured by. You know someone (or at least someone who knows someone) who not only lived through a horrific wreck in a Volvo, but walked away. Repairs are easy for even the most rudimentary shade tree mechanic - with a Bently manual and a metric tool set in hand, almost nothing is off limits. I replaced my own timing belt in an hour and a half in a parking lot - thanks to more smart, simple Swedish engineering, a broken timing belt does not ruin the engine. It's nothing more than a nuisance, a protracted inconvenience. On the downside, these inconveniences increase with age. The legendary engine may run for upwards of a million miles (and beyond, again, with good maintenance), but in that time plastics become brittle, electronics corrode. The fuses are idiotic in placement and execution, the tail light contacts require almost monthly upkeep to avoid a ticket, some relays will burn out and introduce a cascade of electrical gremlins. As a tall person, I take some issue with the size of the cockpit. I fit, I've become used to it, but there isn't a ton of room. The 3rd row seat, while novel, is in the rear crumple zone - a significant rear-ending may not limit the Volvo's ability to limp home, but it may easily kill anyone seated in the way back. But the bottom line is that if you are patient, your expectations are realistic and you have a AAA card on hand, a Volvo will be your friend for a long, long time. We have a Hyundai for quick jaunts to the store. It's fast and easy, but has been in the shop far more than the old beast.
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Garnett Reynolds 2025-02-07
Vehicle year: 1993
Overall, this is a fantastic car/wagon for hauling kids, bikes, camping gear, and more. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a safe and reliable vehicle under $10,000.
Stanford Howell 2025-01-04
Vehicle year: 1993
Reliable but outdated styling. The A/C may not perform well in warmer climates, but it has excellent and fast heating for cooler climates. The car has poor acceleration, but it handles well on roads.
Irving Walsh 2024-08-03
Vehicle year: 1992
The Volvo 240 is not the most exciting car out there, but it's definitely comfortable and safe.
Evans Gutkowski 2024-07-25
Vehicle year: 1990
This Volvo is a very reliable ride, although its performance is not great. It weighs a lot, which means it cannot accelerate or corner as well as other cars. However, Volvos are not designed for performance; they are designed to save lives, and the 240DL is like a tank. If you are looking for a safe and reliable car and you do not care about performance or looks, then this car is perfect for you.
Maxine Goyette 2024-07-08
Vehicle year: 1990
Owned since new. Repairs can be expensive. The exhaust has been replaced three times in 12 years. The motor is good and the car can take a beating from kids. While the sound system has never been very good, the brakes are okay. The car has good gas mileage and surprising pep from the 2.3L 4-banger. Overall, this car did the job it was purchased to do. However, driver's leg-room can be a real issue for tall people. It's surprising that the Swedes haven't addressed this yet.