1990 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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Common 1990 Volvo 240 problems
The Volvo 240, produced between 1974 and 1993, is known for its robustness and durability:
- Faulty Overdrive (OD) system: The overdrive system in the 1990 Volvo 240, which is an electronic system, is known to have several issues. These include disconnected wires in the shift knob or solenoid, failure of the OD wires, and problems with the switch or solenoid itself. The overdrive works off hydraulic pressure, and as it ages, it may lose pressure, leading to unreliable engagement.
- Worn air intake hose and air box thermostats: The 1990 Volvo 240 models with Bosch LH electronic fuel injection have a large plastic accordion-style intake hose that can wear out over time, causing unfiltered and unmetered air to enter the engine. This can lead to erratic behavior and running lean, which might introduce more issues if the mixture is corrected without addressing the root cause. Additionally, the air box thermostat, which routes hot air from the exhaust manifold to aid in cold start performance, can fail in the open position, allowing superheated air to be drawn into the engine, reducing performance and shortening the life of the air mass meter.
- Fuel injection relay issues: The main fuel pump relay in the 1990 Volvo 240 can sometimes fail, leading to intermittent or no start issues. Spinning the fuses in their holders can often reestablish electrical contact and get the car going again. However, preventative maintenance, such as cleaning the fuses annually, can help avoid these problems.
- Heater blower motor failure: Although the Volvo 240 is famous for its powerful heater, the heater blower motor can sometimes fail, requiring replacement. This can take several hours for an experienced mechanic and may take even longer for beginners.
- Main fuse box corrosion: The main fuse box in the 1990 Volvo 240, located in the driver side kick panel, can suffer from corrosion due to water entry and electrolosis. Preventative measures, such as cleaning the fuses annually, can help avoid numerous problems associated with the fuse box.
- Motor and transmission mounts: The engine and transmission mounts in the 1990 Volvo 240 can wear out and require replacement, especially if the car is driven hard. These mounts are designed to allow the engine to move back and under the car in the event of a serious head-on collision, keeping it out of the passenger compartment. Inspection and replacement should be done annually or as needed to prevent serious damage.
- Flame trap system issues: The flame trap system, used in the 1976-1993 240 models instead of a PCV system with a PCV valve, can cause oil leaks and idle problems due to clogging. This system has been problematic since its introduction in 1976 and continues to cause issues in newer Volvo models.
These are some of the most common problems reported by owners of the 1990 Volvo 240. Regular maintenance and preventative measures can help avoid or mitigate these issues, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
Are old Volvo 240s reliable?
8 Robust And Ultra-Reliable
Being the first manufacturer to fit 999,999 mph odometers to its cars, Volvo was underlining its vehicle's potential for longevity, and thanks to many galvanized parts, excellent build quality, and almost bomb-proof mechanicals, the 240 continues to spin those digits.
What is the value of a 1990 Volvo 240?
The value of a used 1990 Volvo 240 ranges from $1,251 to $7,194, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
How long did the Volvo 240 last?
20 years
On 5th May 1993, after nearly 20 years of huge success and 2,862,573 cars produced (of which 177,402 were 260s), the 240 took its final bow.
Are Volvo 240 rare?
Globally, the Volvo 240 is far from a rare vehicle. There were over 2.8 million models built using the 240 designation over its entire run, with a further 177,000 nearly-identical 260s produced during the same period.
Are old Volvo 240s reliable?
8 Robust And Ultra-Reliable
Being the first manufacturer to fit 999,999 mph odometers to its cars, Volvo was underlining its vehicle's potential for longevity, and thanks to many galvanized parts, excellent build quality, and almost bomb-proof mechanicals, the 240 continues to spin those digits.
Is the Volvo 240 a safe car?
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.
What is the value of a 1990 Volvo 240?
The value of a used 1990 Volvo 240 ranges from $1,251 to $7,194, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
How long did the Volvo 240 last?
20 years
On 5th May 1993, after nearly 20 years of huge success and 2,862,573 cars produced (of which 177,402 were 260s), the 240 took its final bow.
1990 Volvo 240 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo 240 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Seats problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Volvo 240 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1990 Volvo 240 complaints
The NHTSA has received 21 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Volvo 240.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-06
- 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-06
- 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
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-24
- 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
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-31
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1AA8853L1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED THAT WHEN TRYING TO REVERSE AND WITHOUT WARNING VEHICLE ACCELERATED, CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YZ1AA8846L1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING BRAKES FAILED, CAUSING A COLLISION. VEHICLE CHECKED BY DEALER WHO DETERMINED THAT 3 FAILED COMPONENTS; MASTER CYLINDER/ LEFT FRONT CALIPER, AND "BOOSTER".*AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES HE HAS BEEN HAVING NUMEROUS PROBLEMS WITH REAR TAIL LIGHTS, TURN SIGNAL ASSEMBLIES AND THE FRONT MARKER LIGHT, CONSUMER STATES THAT THE MATERIALS THAT ARE BEING USED ARE VERY BRITTLE, CONSUMER STATES OVER THE LAST 18 MONTHS HE HAS NOTICED NUMEROUS CRACKS, SURFACE DISTORTIONS, AND CLOUDING, ALSO WATER ENTERS THE LENS/REFELCTOR ASSEMBLIES AND HAS FURTHER AGGRAVATED THE PROBLEM BY INTRODUCING ROAD CONTAMINATES INTO THE LENS HOUSING, AS WELL AS CAUSING NUMERUS PREMATURE BULB FAILURES. *JB
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: WHILE SEATING IN DRIVER SEAT NOTICED SEAT ROCKING SOON AFTER WHEN SEAT BROKE IN HALF. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-20
- VIN: YV1AA8844L1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
- Summary: I'M REPORTING THIS PROBLEM WITH THE VOLVO (240 DL) BECAUSE I FEEL IT'S A SAFETY ISSUE. WHEN THE CONTROLLER GOES OUT ON THESE VEHICLES THE CARS NO LONGER OPERATE, THUS CREATING A VERY SERIOUS HAZARD, ESPECIALLY IF ONE IS TRAVELING ON A CONGESTED HIGHWAY. THIS HAS BEEN PROBLEM WITH THE VOLVO 240 DL THROUGH 1988 UNTIL 1992. VOLVO HAS NOT RECALLED ANY OF THESE CARS OR CORRECTED THE PROBLEM, AND VOLVO IS PERFECTLY AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM. SEVERAL MECHANICS AND RESEARCH HAVE INDICATED TO ME THAT THE EMISSIONS CONTROLLERS AND SUPPORTING DEVICES HAVE BEEN FAILING ON THESE CARS. THE PARTS ARE COMPUTERIZED ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND ARE VERY EXPENSIVE TO REPLACE. MY LAST EMISSIONS REPAIRS HAVE COST ME $1100.00. FAILURE OF THE CONTROLLER PREVENTS THE CAR FROM OPERATING.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-06-17
- VIN: YV1AA8853L1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEED THE BACK OF THE DRIVER'S SEAT FELL OFF. THE DEALER REPLACED A BOLT BUT NOW THE SEAT BACK APPEARS READY TO FALL AGAIN.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1AA8842L1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE PARKED WITH KEY OUT OF THE IGNITION, CONSUMER'S CHILD WAS ABLE TO TAKE THE VEHICLE OUT OF THE PARK POSITION TO THE NEUTRAL POSITION, CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-01
- VIN: YV1AA8847L1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CRUISE CONTROL FAILED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-01
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YV1AA8842L1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE'S ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT ON FIRE. VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. OWNER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-13
- VIN: YV1AA8844L1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ECM COMPUTER UNIT FAILED, CAUSING ENGINE STALL.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-13
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE STOPPED RUNNING AT 55 MPH DUE TO FAILURE OF THE IGNITION CONTROL UNIT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-15
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY AT ABOUT 55MPH THE VEHICLE JUST CUT OFF WITHOUT ANY WARNING. THE CONSUMER HAD TO TURN ON THE EMERGENCY LIGHTS SO OTHER CARS WOULDN'T HIT THEM. VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED TO A MECHANIC. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE DEALER, THEY SAID IT WAS A COMPUTER MALFUNCTION, AND IT COULD STOP AT ANYTIME. THE DEALER ALSO TOLD THE CONSUMER THAT IT WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO ABOUT IT BECAUSE IT WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE STALLED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: COMPUTER COMMAND CONTROL MODULE FAILED.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-15
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT WARNING LIGHT IS ON. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-12
- VIN: YV1AA8840L1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AND THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, CAUSING THE CONSUMER TO HAVE A NEAR ACCIDENT.*AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-01
- VIN: YV1AA8842L1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVERS SIDE SEAT FELL APART. TT
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-07-21
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING LOWER KNUCKLE FAILED (PLEASE EXPLAIN IN MORE DETAIL). TT
Negative 1990 Volvo 240 car reviews
Positive 1990 Volvo 240 car reviews
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I've always loved Volvos, owned a 960, which was a great car, but it does not even compare to my 240 DL. The car is a tank. I feel very safe driving it around town and on the highway. The fuel economy is decent, although I did manage to get around 28 MPG when driving steady 55 MPH on the highway. The car is very simple to maintain and you will not get charged extra just because it is an import. I love the car's design, which really sets it apart from other vehicles. Because the car is so roomy, and has great visibility it has become an all time favorite of Hollywood (there is a bunch of movies in which the car is featured..Bridge to Tarabitha being one of them)..If you get a chance get one..
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I'm so glad you're interested in Volvos! When I got my car, I didn't know much about them, but now I'm a total convert. My Volvo has been incredibly reliable, even though I'm not great about keeping up with tune-ups and oil changes (I usually only do them every few years). I grew up with Nissans and Toyotas, and I always assumed that bi-yearly breakdowns were just part of owning a car. But my Volvo has only broken down once in 7 years of smooth sailing, and that was just a sensor problem. I recently took it in for a full tune-up because I want it to last another 200,000 miles, and my mechanic says that's definitely possible. If you're thinking about getting a Volvo, just make sure you find a mechanic who really knows these cars. Aftermarket parts can cause problems, and there are some quirks that only an experienced pro will be able to handle.
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This is my first car and I love it! It's incredibly safe and I feel like I'm driving a tank, in the best possible way. I can park it anywhere and no matter how badly I park, I still fit in the space.
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I love my Volvo! It was originally purchased as a second car, but I quickly realized that I no longer needed my 1998 Saturn. I can't imagine driving anything else.
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Wow, your Volvo has really stood the test of time! It's amazing that it has lasted for so long, even with all the heavy equipment you carry as a carpenter. I love how versatile it is, with the Thule gutter-mounted removable racks that allow you to carry hundreds of pounds on top. And even with all that weight, you still manage to get over 20 mpg - that's impressive! It's understandable that you bought a newer Econoline to give the Volvo a break, but it's great to hear that you still prefer the Volvo because it goes faster and looks nicer. Of course, with its age, there may be some rust and small fixes needed, but it's definitely worth keeping for personal use and longer trips.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Volvo 240 problems:
Top 10 Common Issues with Volvo 240 Models
Mar 11, 2011 ... Top 10 Common Issues with Volvo 240 Models · Main Fuses · Heater Fan · OD Relay, Wiring, Switch & Solenoid · Motor & Transmission Mounts · Flame Trap ...
Common Issues With The Volvo 240 | Volvo Owners Forum
Dec 2, 2009 ... Common Issues With The Volvo 240 · 1. rust â€" its hard to replace parts when the hardware is fused together, holes in the floorboards, etc. · 2.
1990 Volvo 240 Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Problem with your 1990 Volvo 240? Our list of 8 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1990 Volvo 240.
'89 240 Common Problems - Volvo Forums - Volvo Enthusiasts Forum
Nov 6, 2013 ... Volvo 240, 740 & 940 - '89 240 Common Problems - Looking at a 1989 240 tomorrow and was hoping to check over any common issues that these ...
Stalling problems with my 1990 Volvo 240
May 23, 2011 ... I have a 1990 volvo 240 DL. It has been acting up for some time now. We are huge fans of the 240's. My car has been acting up while driving ...
Other years of Volvo 240
Are you having problems with your 1990 Volvo 240?
Evans Gutkowski 2024-07-25
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
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.
Hank Nikolaus 2024-06-15
This car may not be the best choice for driving in snow due to its rear wheel drive and weight distribution, which can cause a lack of traction. However, it is a very solid and reliable vehicle with a great engine and body. The fan/heater can be a bit noisy and the air temperature control could be improved. Unfortunately, the radio/cassette/speakers are not up to par. Additionally, the gas pedal's position may be uncomfortable for some, especially on long trips.
Nathanael Bartoletti 2024-05-13
The 240 has a reliable engine and is considered safe. However, the engine can be noisy in lower gears and the handling is similar to that of a large moving van. The seats are not very comfortable and the interior and exterior trim pieces have a tendency to become brittle and fall off. The exterior styling may not be the most exciting, with some finding the large plastic headlights unattractive. Overall, while I have owned many cars, I have found the 240 to be the least enjoyable to drive.