1990 Volvo 740 problems
The Volvo 700 series is a range of executive cars produced by the Swedish manufacturer Volvo Cars from 1982 to 1992. The 700 series was introduced in 1982 with the luxurious 760, followed two years later by the lower priced 740 which capitalized on the prestige attained by the very similar 760. The 700 series was then gradually replaced, beginning in 1990, by the 900 series. The 700, designed by Jan Wilsgaard, was originally to have been a replacement for the 200 series, but production of that model continued until the early nineties. The expensive 780, a Bertone-designed coupé version, entered production in 1986 and departed without a direct successor only four years later.
The most visible differences between the 700 and the 900 series were the more rounded corners on the body of the latter, and a somewhat better-appointed interior. The 700 series came to an end in late 1992 when the last 740s were built (although they were considered to be of model year 1993). The range had been augmented and finally supplanted by the Volvo 900 in 1993, with the last of the 900s being sold in 1998.
Volvo 740
Introduced in early 1984 (in the U.S. and Australia for the 1985 model year), the 740 arrived nearly two years after the luxurious 760. It was the lower-end version of the original 760, intended to be a mid-size car that offered more style, performance, and luxury than the 200 series. The '4' in the middle of the Volvo model name had once signified a four-cylinder engine, but by the time of the introduction of the 740 it simply meant less luxurious equipment as four- and six-cylinder engines were fitted across both ranges. The 740 was available as a four-door sedan (sometimes referred to as the 744) and a five-door station wagon (also known as the 745). The station wagon premiered simultaneously at the 1985 Toronto and Chicago auto shows in early February 1985. The wagon was aimed squarely at the North American markets and only went on sale in Europe several months later, in the fall of 1985.
The Volvo 740 was a popular choice as a police car in several parts of Europe, especially so with the police in Scandinavian countries.
For 1985, an intercooled version of the 2-litre turbo engine (B200ET) was introduced for markets such as Italy, where larger engines were heavily taxed. This unit produces 160 PS (118 kW) at 5500 rpm, ten horsepower more than the preceding non-intercooled B19ET variant, enough for a claimed 200 km/h (124 mph) top speed. Model year 1986 marked the worldwide introduction of the station wagon; other differences were limited to a new font for the "740" badging and new hubcap designs. First shown at the 1988 Geneva Motor Show with tentative specifications but only going on sale with the introduction of the 1989 model year cars, a 16-valve version of the larger B230 engine was introduced (B234). This model has nearly as much peak power as the turbo version and was Volvo's first multi-valve engine.
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Common 1990 Volvo 740 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Volvo 740 1990, several common problems have been identified:
- Fuel Pump Relay Failure:
- Another common problem with the Volvo 740 is the failure of the fuel pump relay. When the fuel pump relay malfunctions, it can prevent the fuel pump from operating correctly, leading to starting issues or stalling while driving. Replacing the faulty relay is necessary to restore proper fuel delivery to the engine.
- Faulty Ignition Power Stage:
- Owners have reported issues with the ignition power stage in the Volvo 740. A faulty ignition power stage can disrupt the power supply to the coil, resulting in a lack of spark and causing the engine to misfire or not start at all. Addressing this problem involves replacing the defective component to ensure proper ignition function.
- Faulty Noise Suppression Relay:
- The Volvo 740 has been known to experience problems with the noise suppression relay. This relay is responsible for regulating power to the injectors, and if it fails, it can lead to issues with fuel delivery and engine performance. Checking and replacing the faulty noise suppression relay is essential to maintain proper injector function.
- Dashboard Cracking:
- A notable issue reported by Volvo 740 owners is the tendency of the dashboard to crack. This cosmetic problem can be frustrating for owners and may affect the overall aesthetics of the interior. While not a critical mechanical issue, addressing dashboard cracks may involve repairs or replacements to maintain the vehicle's appearance.
These common problems with the Volvo 740 1990 highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt repairs to ensure the vehicle's reliability and performance. Addressing these issues promptly can help owners avoid more significant and costly repairs in the future.
Is the Volvo 740 a reliable car?
Tough and reliable, the 700-series as capable of huge mileages thanks to great build quality, and the survival rate is exceptionally high.
Is Volvo 740 safe?
True to Volvo's ethos, the 740 was designed with safety as a priority. It featured advanced (for the time) safety features such as anti-lock brakes, front, and rear crumple zones, and a reinforced passenger compartment.
What is the top speed of Volvo 740?
Specs
- Engine Specifications.
- Engine Configuration. I.
- Petrol.
- RWD.
- 172 - 193 km/h.
- 9.7 - 13 s.
How much does a 1990 Volvo 740 Turbo weigh?
Used 1990 Volvo 740 - Specs & Features
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Cargo capacity, all seats in place | 16.8 cu.ft. |
| Turning circle | 32.5 ft. |
| Ground clearance | 4.1 in. |
| Curb weight | 2,996 lbs. |
Is the Volvo 740 a reliable car?
Tough and reliable, the 700-series as capable of huge mileages thanks to great build quality, and the survival rate is exceptionally high.
Is Volvo 740 safe?
True to Volvo's ethos, the 740 was designed with safety as a priority. It featured advanced (for the time) safety features such as anti-lock brakes, front, and rear crumple zones, and a reinforced passenger compartment.
What is the fuel economy of a 1990 Volvo 740?
Based on data from 22 vehicles, 1,548 fuel-ups and 318,565 miles of driving, the 1990 Volvo 740 gets a combined Avg MPG of 19.88 with a 0.21 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 87 outliers (5.32%) removed.
How much does a 1990 Volvo 740 Turbo weigh?
Used 1990 Volvo 740 - Specs & Features
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Cargo capacity, all seats in place | 16.8 cu.ft. |
| Turning circle | 32.5 ft. |
| Ground clearance | 4.1 in. |
| Curb weight | 2,996 lbs. |
1990 Volvo 740 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo 740 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Volvo 740 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1990 Volvo 740
The NHTSA has received 51 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Volvo 740. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Volvo 740 vehicles.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-13
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8849L2
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1990 VOLVO 740. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE GARAGE, IT SUDDENLY ACCELERATED TO APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH. THE VEHICLE SLAMMED INTO A BRICK WALL. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS SOFT AND WOULD NOT RESPOND. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CONTACT WAS BLEEDING FROM HIS HEAD AND REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8852L1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1990 VOLVO 740. WHILE REVERSING INTO A PARKING SPACE, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED AND CRASHED INTO A PARKED VEHICLE. THE SERVICE BRAKES AND EMERGENCY BRAKE FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT HAD TO REMOVE THE KEYS FROM THE IGNITION IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-01
- VIN: YV1FA8840M2
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: NORMAL EVERYDAY USE. THE SEAT BELT BUCKLES FALL PART. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-15
- VIN: YV1FA8744L1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: RAPID ACCELERATION INCIDENT IN A 1990 VOLVO 740 TURBO SEDAN. GIVEN THE RECENT PRESS RE TOYOTA, I WOULD JUST LIKE IT KNOWN THAT THE ISSUE MAY EXTEND TO OTHER MANUFACTURERS AS WELL. MY VEHICLE BECAME "POSSESSED" IN A PARKING GARAGE IN DOWNTOWN MINNEAPOLIS IN 1996. I WAS ABOUT TO BACK OUT OF A PARKING SPACE, AND IT WENT INTO A SUPER HIGH SPEED REVERSE (ON ITS OWN FROM ZERO TO PERHAPS 40 MPH?) WHILE MY FOOT WAS JAMMED IN TERROR ON THE BRAKE. I WAS ABLE TO THROW THE TRANSMISSION INTO FIRST GEAR, WHICH DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM, AND SHUT OFF THE ENGINE, BEFORE I SMASHED INTO A CAR BEHIND ME. I WAS AFRAID TO DRIVE THE CAR, BUT TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER, WHO COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG AND FOUND NO RECALLS. I SOLD THE CAR LONG AGO, BUT THOUGHT YOU SHOULD KNOW. I LOVE VOLVO AND STILL BELIEVE THEY ARE SAFE CARS, SO I REGRET TO BRING THIS UP.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-13
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8844L1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: IN A PARKING LOT AT A LOCAL GROCERY STORE, MY DAUGHTER AND I WENT INTO THE CAR, STARTED IT AND SHIFTED THE GEAR, WHILE HOLDING THE BRAKE, FROM PARK MODE TO REVERS MODE TO GET OUT OF THE PARKING LOT. AS SOON AS I SHIFTED IT, THE CAR TOOK OFF IN FULL SPEED BACKWARD AS IF IT WAS CRAZY, HITTING A CAR AND A PASSENGER THAT WAS COMING OUT OF THE CAR. AS MY CAR HIT THE 2ND VEHICLE'S OPEN DOOR, IT BOUNCED FORWARD, ALSO IN FULL SPEED. BY THIS TIME, I SHIFTED THE GEAR TO PARK MODE IN ATTEMPT TO STOP THE CAR. NEVERTHELESS, THE CAR FLEW AND HIT A SUV AND AS THE AIRBAG BROKE, MY CAR STOPPED. THE SUV WAS THEN SANDWICHED IN BETWEEN MY CAR AND A PARKED CAR IN FRONT OF IT. BOTH CARS WERE EMPTY BUT THE PASSENGER FROM THE FIRST CAR WAS BADLY BRUISED IN HER SIDE AND KNEE. THE SUDDEN ACCELERATION HAD OCCURED AND THE TIRE MARKS REMAINED FROM THE STARTING LOCATION TO THE END BECAUSE I WAS PUSHING THE BRAKE ALL THE TIME, NEVERTHELESS, THE CAR FLEW UNINTENTIONALLY. SINCE IT IS A VERY UNUSUAL CASE, NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO THE CAR YET AND I WILL PROBABLY TOTAL THAT CAR.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-18
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8843L2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE TRAVELING OVER A HILL AT 45 MPH, A DEER ENTERED THE PATH OF THE VEHICLE. THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED, BUT THE VEHICLE STRUCK THE DEER. THE VEHICLE WENT OFF THE ROAD AND DOWN AN EMBANKMENT STRIKING TREES. THE FRONT END WAS DAMAGED IN THE COLLISION. THE CONTACT WAS WEARING A SEAT BELT, BUT SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES. THERE WAS A POLICE REPORT TAKEN AT THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE MANUFACTURER SENT A TECHNICIAN WHO DETERMINED, BASED ON THE SPEED AND ANGLE THE VEHICLE MADE CONTACT, THE AIRBAGS SHOULD NOT DEPLOY. THERE HAVE BEEN NO REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLE. UPDATED 03/28/06. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-11
- VIN: YV1FA8847L3
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE RADIATOR OPENING TO WHICH THE HOSE ATTACHES [FOR RETURN OF THE COOLANT TO THE ENGINE] CRACKED AND BROKE OFF. THERE ARE CRACKS IN THE PLASTIC PORTION OF THE RADIATOR WHERE THE HOSE ATTACHES. THE FAILURE IS NOT THE RESULT OF ANY IMPACT OR OTHER EXTERNAL FORCES. THE PLASTIC OUT OF WHICH THE RADIATOR IS MADE IS EITHER DEFECTIVE OF INADEQUATELY DESIGNED FOR NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. I AM TOLD THAT NO REPAIR IS POSSIBLE. THE ENTIRE RADIATOR MUST BE REPLACED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8856L1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE FIRE AS A RESULT OF ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS.*MR VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE AT WORK FOUR HOURS AFTER IT WAS PARKED. FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED AND THE BATTERY WAS DISCONNECTED UPON DISCOVERING IT WAS AN ELECTRICAL FIRE. VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN HOME THAT NIGHT. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE MECHANIC THE NEXT DAY. CONSUMER BELIEVED THE FIRE WAS THE RESULT OF THE BATTERY CABLES. CONSUMER CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP AND LEARNED OF A SERVICE BULLETIN FOR THE 740 MODELS. CONSUMER BELIEVED THE POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE BATTER CABLE CAME TOGETHER AND RAN DOWN A RUBBER TUB THAT SECURED THE INTER FRAME. AT THE END OF THE RUBBER TUBE THE POSITIVE CABLE RAN ACROSS THE FRONT CROSS MEMBER TO THE STARTER. THE NEGATIVE BATTERY CABLE AFTER LEAVING THE RUBBER TUBE CROSS OVER THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE GOING TO GROUND ITSELF TO THE ENGINE. OVER THE YEARS THE TWO CABLES RUB TOGETHER TILL THE SHEATING WORN DOWN AND MAKING CONTACT CAUSING THE SHORT CIRCUIT AND FIRE. THE DAMAGE FROM THE FIRE ( POSITIVE/NEGATIVE CABLE BURNED ALL THE WAY THROUGH, BOTH POWER STEERING HOSE BURNED, OIL SENDING UNIT AND CONNECTING WIRE, SPLASH PAN MELTED FROM FIRE DROPPING ON IT, THE A/C COMPRESSOR HOSE BURNED TO THE POINT WHERE YOU COULD SEE TREAD COMING FROM THE HOSE. THE ITEMS WERE REPLACED BUT THE A/C WASN'T WORKING. *PH
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8740L2
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: THE REAR WHEEL CRACKED IN HALF, WHICH CAUSED THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. WHICH RESULTED IN AN ACCIDENT.*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-05
- VIN: YV1FA8854L2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THE AIR BAG SPONTANEOUSLY DEPLOYED AS THE VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN GOING 5-10MPH TO A STOP. NO AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED TO SPECIFY A PROBLEM. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. PLEASE PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION. TS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-04-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YV1SA8845L2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH THICK SMOKE CAME FROM AIR CONDITIONER'S VENTS, SHORTLY AFTER, CONSUMER SAW FLAMES. VEHICLE WAS TOTALLY BURNED BEFORE FIRE DEPARTMENT GOT TO SCENE. DRIVER SUFFERED SMOKE INHALATION.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8847L1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE ROUNDING A CURVE AT 20MPH VEHICLE SUDDENLY AND UNCONTROLLABLY ACCELERATED TO 50-60MPH. BRAKES WERE INEFFECTIVE TO SLOW ACCELERATION. VEHICLE FLEW OVER CURB, INTO PARK CRASHING INTO TREE. THANKFULLY, AIRBAG DEPLOYED SAVING ELDERLY DRIVER. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8847L1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT A LOW RATE OF SPEED AND WHEN ATTEMTPING TO TURN AROUND A CURVE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, CAUSING UNWANTED AND UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION, RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED VOLVO. *AK THE BRAKES FAILED TO STOP THE ACCELERATING VEHICLE. *YH
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YV1FA8758L2
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: UNINTENTIONAL ACCELERATION. DRIVER SITTING IN A CARPOOL PICKUP LINE WITH CAR TURNED OFF. DRIVER STARTED CAR IN ORDER TO MOVE IT FORWARD ABOUT 25 FEET( THEN THE INTENTION WAS TO TURN IT OFF AND SIT AND WAIT ANOTHER 10 MINUTES UNTIL SCHOOL GOT OUT). DRIVER PUT CAR IN DRIVE AND WENT TO GIVE CAR SOME GAS AND THE CAR LUNGED FORWARD, ENGINE COMPLETLY REVED. TRIED TO JAM ON BRAKES BUT THE CAR ENGINE STILL TOTALLY REVED. SMASHED INTO FORD EXPEDITION IN FRONT OF ME. AIR BAG DEPLOYED HITTING STOMACH ONLY.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-01
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DESCRIBE THE INCIDENT OR HAZARD, INCLUDING DESCRIPTION OF INJURIES:HAZARD IS TO PERSONS GENERALLY. UNSAFE PRODUCT IS THE PART # 71901 GTSTYLING BUG-GARD. SEE EMAIL FROM: [email protected] I WROTE THAT THEIR DESIGN WAS FLAWED BECAUSE IT DEPENDED ON ADHESIVES. THEY ASKED ABOUT MY CAR MAKE AND MODEL AND FITMENT: IT IS A 1990 740 AND THE PART NUMBER I GAVE WAS SPECIFICALLY FOR IT. CONFORMING TO THE HOOD (WHICH IT DOES) IS NOT THE PROBLEM. IT IS THAT THE OUTSIDE FASTENING DEPENDS ON ADHESIVE DOTS 3M TO STAY IN PLACE AND IT DOES NOT.CORRESPONDENCE BELOW) YOU SENT A REPLACEMENT ONCE; THE ENTIRE SHIELD. THEN YOU SENT A BOX OF BUMPONS AND A BOX OF 3M VELCRO-LIKE DOTS. I PUT 4 ON EACH SIDE AND IT STILL BREKS LOOSE AND WHIPS IN THE WIND ! ! ! ! THE FAULT IS YOURS NOT THE SELLERS AND J.C. WHITNEY IS NOT GOING TO MAKE GOOD ON IT AT THIS LATE DATE ANYWAY. I ALLEGE THAT THE PLASTIC PART FITTING ACROSS THE AUTOMOBILE HOOD IS AT RISK OF BREAKING OFF BECAUSE OF FAILURE OF THE ADHESIVE DOTS USED TO HOLD THE ENDS IN PLACE. IF IT DOES, IT POSES A THREAT TO PEDESTRIANS AND THE PUBLIC. NOT AN AUTOMOBILE, SO I TOOK A CHANCE THAT YOU ARE THE PROPER SITE TO REPORT THIS TO. IF NOT, PLEASE ADVISE.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-01
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DESCRIBE THE INCIDENT OR HAZARD, INCLUDING DESCRIPTION OF INJURIES:HAZARD IS TO PERSONS GENERALLY. UNSAFE PRODUCT IS THE PART # 71901 GTSTYLING BUG-GARD. SEE EMAIL FROM: [email protected] I WROTE THAT THEIR DESIGN WAS FLAWED BECAUSE IT DEPENDED ON ADHESIVES. THEY ASKED ABOUT MY CAR MAKE AND MODEL AND FITMENT: IT IS A 1990 740 AND THE PART NUMBER I GAVE WAS SPECIFICALLY FOR IT. CONFORMING TO THE HOOD (WHICH IT DOES) IS NOT THE PROBLEM. IT IS THAT THE OUTSIDE FASTENING DEPENDS ON ADHESIVE DOTS 3M TO STAY IN PLACE AND IT DOES NOT.CORRESPONDENCE BELOW) YOU SENT A REPLACEMENT ONCE; THE ENTIRE SHIELD. THEN YOU SENT A BOX OF BUMPONS AND A BOX OF 3M VELCRO-LIKE DOTS. I PUT 4 ON EACH SIDE AND IT STILL BREKS LOOSE AND WHIPS IN THE WIND ! ! ! ! THE FAULT IS YOURS NOT THE SELLERS AND J.C. WHITNEY IS NOT GOING TO MAKE GOOD ON IT AT THIS LATE DATE ANYWAY. I ALLEGE THAT THE PLASTIC PART FITTING ACROSS THE AUTOMOBILE HOOD IS AT RISK OF BREAKING OFF BECAUSE OF FAILURE OF THE ADHESIVE DOTS USED TO HOLD THE ENDS IN PLACE. IF IT DOES, IT POSES A THREAT TO PEDESTRIANS AND THE PUBLIC. NOT AN AUTOMOBILE, SO I TOOK A CHANCE THAT YOU ARE THE PROPER SITE TO REPORT THIS TO. IF NOT, PLEASE ADVISE.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-15
- VIN: YV1FA8952L1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE THREADS STARTED TO FALL OUT, TIRE WAS HARDLY USED, REPLACED WITH ANOTHER SPARE FROM SALVAGE YARD( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 155/R1587T )
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-12
- VIN: YV1FA8842L2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE ACCELERATED FROM ABOUT 20 TO 65MPH DUE TO A PIECE OF A BROKEN GASKET FALLING INTO THE THROTTLE BODY. DRIVER HAD TO TURN IGNITION OFF IN ORDER TO STOP VEHICLE. DEALER TOOK OUT THE PIECE OF GASKET AND REPLACED GASKET. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-20
- VIN: YV1FA885XL2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BOOSTER ASSIST BECAME ERRATIC -UPON DISASSEMBLY BAKELITE TYPE DIAPHRAGM SUPPORT WAS FOUND TO BE BROKEN IN 3 PIECES-THER ARE NO SIGNS OF IMPACT ON THE EXTERIOR OF THE BOOSTER NOR HAS THE CAR BEEN INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT IN THE LAST YEAR.IT WAS PURCHASED USED SO NO FURTHER HISTORY IS AVAILABLE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH, COMING TO MAKE STOP, DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO MAKE A NORMAL BRAKING STOP WHEN BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR ,EXPERIENCED TOTAL LOSS OF BRAKES, CAUSING LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND COULD HAVE RESULTED IN ACCIDENT. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN SHIFTING FROM PARK TO DRIVE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WITH THE DRIVERS FOOT ON BRAKE PEDAL. THE VEHICLE HIT A TELEPHONE POLE. DEALER HAS NOT SEEN THE TOTALED VEHICLE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-01
- VIN: YV1FA8851L2
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER SEAT BELT "FROZE" IN RETRACTING POSITION, UNABLE TO WITHDRAW AND FASTEN SEAT BELT. TECHNICIAN AT DEALER SAID PROBLEM PROBABLY DUE TO DEFECTIVE INERTIAL REEL. VOLVO SAID MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY ON SEAT BELT EXPIRED AFTER 5 YEARS. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-03
- VIN: YV1FA8940L2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I FEEL STRONLY THAT I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY FOR A REPAIR SERVICE (TAILLIGHT SENSOR PROBLEM) THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN FIXED PERMANENTLY WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS UNDER WARRANTY. THE SRS WARNING LIGHT PROBLEM IS NOT ONLY A MECHANICAL ISSUE, BUT ALSO A SAFETY HAZARD TO THE DRIVER, LEAVING THE AIRBAG INOPERABLE. I DO NOT BELIEVE THAT A CONSUMER SHOULD HAVE TO PAY OUT $1200 TO SERVICE THE SRS WARNING LIGHT EVERY TIME THE OWNER DISCONNECTS AND RECONNECTS THE BATTERY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8845L1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT GOING AT LEAST 40MPH, AND I WAS HIT IN THE FRONT. MY AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. I HAVE MULTIPLE INJURIES DUE TO ME BEING THROWN INTO THE STEERING WHEEL, AND THE DASHBOARD, AND MY HEAD HIT THE REAR VIEW MIRROR. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-15
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YZ1FA8942L2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WIRING HARNESS UNDER THE HOOD CAUGHT FIRE . THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILES. *AK
1990 Volvo 740 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 Volvo 740.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF NA, INC.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Summary: SAFETY BELTS ARE DESIGNED TO BE ROUTED UNDER A DIAGONAL CROSS BRACE DURING FASTENING. THE INSTRUCTIONAL LABELS FOR THE BELT ROUTING ARE INADEQUATE, AND CAN RESULT IN INADVERTENT RELEASE OF THE BELT BUCKLE.
- Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: SAFETY BELT MISUSE COULD CAUSE THE SEAT OCCUPANT TO FACE GREATER RISK OF INJURY IN A SUDDEN STOP OR VEHICLE ACCIDENT IF AN INADVERTENT RELEASE OF THE SAFETY BELT OCCURRED.
- Remedy: INSTALL LABELS TO INSTRUCT THE USER IN PROPER SAFETY BELT ROUTING; ALSO REPLACE SAFETY BELT BUCKLES.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF NA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE
- Summary: FUEL DAMPER LOCATED BEHIND THE FUEL LINE AND THE FUEL RAIL MAY BE IMPROPERLY ASSEMBLED. OVER TIME, THE SOLDER JOINTS COULD ALLOW A SMALL AMOUNT OF FUEL TO LEAK.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE,COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: REPLACE FUEL DAMPER.
Negative 1990 Volvo 740 car reviews
Positive 1990 Volvo 740 car reviews
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This car is a great choice for any new owner. While it may take some time to learn how to operate it properly, it is a very sturdy and reliable vehicle that can handle most driving conditions with the right tires. As an older car, it may have some trouble starting in cold weather, but with a little patience, it always gets going. I highly recommend this car to any teenager looking for their first vehicle as it teaches responsibility and is a joy to drive. I have put a lot of work into this car to get it where it is today, and it runs like a champ! I even take it out and autocross it on weekends. Volvos are known for their durability and strength, and I have always loved mine.
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I used to think that Volvos were the ugliest cars ever made. However, after inheriting a 1990 740 GL sedan, I have completely fallen in love with it! In fact, I am currently in the process of refurbishing this ride. I absolutely adore the car's reliability and how comfortable it is on the highway. It's a fantastic cruiser. Although I am typically a truck person, with today's gas prices, I have had to park my Chevy 2500HD and use the car as a runner to and from work. I have found myself driving my Volvo everywhere and neglecting my truck! Mechanically, there is nothing wrong with the car, just minor stuff like the compressor and the tie rods needing replacement. I plan to have the car repainted and that's about it. Overall, it's a great car!
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I recently purchased a 740 GLE wagon as a cheap runabout, and to my surprise, it had an incredible 440,000 km on the clock. It was a former Volvo country service car, and I can now understand why people love these cars. On weekends, we use it as the family car, and the kids love the back row of seats. It's incredibly practical for navigating Wellington, which is a tight, hilly city with boxy corners and great steering. We enjoy it so much that we even tried out a new one, but it wasn't as good. I suspect Volvo may have lost the plot under Ford.
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I bought the car when it was 5 years old and had only 25K miles on it. The suspension was a bit scary, typical of a station wagon. However, I replaced all the shocks with a stiffer model, added front and rear sway bars, a shock tower brace, an under engine chassis brace, and all-season performance tires. I also turned up the boost to 14 from 8.5. Now, the car handles great, brakes very well, and with 222 dyno'd horsepower, it keeps up easily with all traffic. The car is an excellent long-distance cruiser, as the wheelbase and extremely comfortable leather seats encourage continued driving. The vehicle has been well maintained by an independent Volvo mechanic and has been very inexpensive to date. There is no rust, but it has been driven very little in the winter. It is good for another 150K.
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This car is built to last. In a world of front-wheel-drive cars, it handles quite well compared to others. However, its solid axle limits its handling ability. If anything breaks on the car, it can be quite expensive.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Volvo 740 problems:
1990 Volvo 740 Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Problem with your 1990 Volvo 740? Our list of 8 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1990 Volvo 740.
1990 740 Turbo problems - Volvo Owners Club Forum
Nov 4, 2018 ... ... engine when running, mainly when hot again. The car has been stood for 2 years and done 220,000 miles. Upon reading the common problems with ...
740 alternator problems
Dec 5, 2011 ... Hello, I have a 1990 Volvo 740 Sedan. Background: In the past 2 years I have had the distributer cap, plugs, basic tune up, ...
Volvo 740 electrical gremlin help — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Jan 10, 2006 ... 5. I assume that now everything works except the fuel gauge > this is a common problem with 740 dashboards, and can be caused by worn instrument ...
740, 940 common problems
May 14, 2021 ... Check for info on Brickboard site for more info on red block Volvos. volvolugnut. The Fleet: Volvo: 2001 V70 T5, 1986 244DL, 1983 245DL, 1975 ...
Other years of Volvo 740
Are you having problems with your 1990 Volvo 740?
Deven Torphy 2024-10-02
I bought this car the day my eldest son was born and 18 years later I'm still driving it. It has proven to be a great investment. After a few tire changes, a brake job, a brake booster replacement, a heater core replacement, and a new battery, it's still kicking and wanting to go even more.
Imani Grady 2024-09-19
I purchased my 745T as a reliable and safe vehicle for my family. While the interior quality is standard for a 1990's Volvo, with some easily breakable plastic and no cup holders, the seats are the best in the industry! Unfortunately, the records show that the car had to be towed to the dealer twice with only 25,000 and 27,000 miles on it, which is disappointing for a car with a sticker price of $29,356. The previous owner spent over $5,000 in repairs before I acquired the car. As a Volvo enthusiast, I do my own work and appreciate the brand, but it's important to be aware of the quirks and have some extra cash on hand for any necessary dealer repairs. (Thankfully, it's not as complicated as the 450-page manual for fixing problems on the Jaguar XJ-S...)
Herman Auer 2024-08-12
My son is getting ready for college and he still drives the car he came home from the hospital in. Boxy Blue, or the tank as we call it, has been through it all - from smashed mailbox posts to prom nights, and even family vacations. I have to say, after owning several other cars and minivans over the years, Boxy Blue has held up the best and was the best car purchase I've made for the money. Any repairs that need to be done now are minor, and there are plenty of junkyard parts available. My mechanic even wants to buy her off me whenever I drive into his shop!
Camryn Abshire 2024-08-04
I bought this car back in May 2004 and it has been a reliable companion ever since. It always starts without any issues and makes my life easier. The controls are straightforward and easy to use, making the car uncomplicated. However, winter driving can be a bit of a hassle since the car is rear-wheel drive, so it's important to have some experience driving in those conditions. It's worth noting that parts can be quite expensive, so it's important to be aware of that. On the bright side, all repairs are straightforward and normal, such as tires and exhaust. The workmanship and quality are superb, and there's plenty of space inside. While it may not be the prettiest car out there, it's definitely a smart buy. The turbo does have some lag, which can be disconcerting in emergency maneuvers. However, once it's spooled up, it provides more than enough power, despite the poor fuel economy.
Mallory Cassin 2024-01-15
Tank-like driveability. Solid. Safe. Secure. Practicality and roominess like no other. Outstanding quality. Absolutely no rust anywhere. 336,000 km and still going. Owning these cars is like a cult - you develop great attachment.