1991 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 1991 Volvo 740 problems
The Volvo 740, produced in 1991, is a reliable and robust vehicle, but like any other car, it is prone to specific problems. Based on the complaints from owners, the following are the most common issues with the 1991 Volvo 740:
- Sensors and Electrical Problems: The Volvo 740 has a complex electrical system, and problems with sensors are not uncommon. For instance, the crankshaft position sensor might give trouble, as reported by a 1991 Volvo 740 owner who replaced it. In some cases, replacing the seatbelt buckle might not fix the issue, and a more thorough diagnosis might be required.
- Heated Seats Not Working: Some owners have reported problems with the heated seats not working, even though the indicator light on the switches comes on. This issue might be due to a problem with the heating element or the wiring. Checking the voltage at the plug under each heated seat when the switch is turned on can help diagnose the problem.
- Radio Not Working: The radio might not turn on at all, even though the fuse is fine. This issue might be due to a faulty relay or a dead radio. The relay for the radio is typically located in the fuse box, and checking the voltage at the relay can help diagnose the problem.
- Tie Rods and Suspension Issues: The Volvo 740 has a robust suspension system, but tie rods might wear out over time, causing problems with the steering. Replacing the tie rods can help fix the issue and improve the car's handling.
In summary, the 1991 Volvo 740 is a reliable car, but like any other vehicle, it is prone to specific problems. Common issues include fuel system problems, sensors and electrical issues, heated seats not working, radio not working, and tie rods and suspension issues. Accurate diagnosis and timely repair can help keep the car running smoothly and reliably.
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.
How much is a Volvo 740 worth?
The value of a used 1990 Volvo 740 ranges from $1,341 to $8,778, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
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.
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.
How much is a Volvo 740 worth?
The value of a used 1990 Volvo 740 ranges from $1,341 to $8,778, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
What is the top speed of Volvo 740?
Specs
- Engine Specifications.
- Engine Configuration. I.
- Petrol.
- RWD.
- 172 - 193 km/h.
- 9.7 - 13 s.
What is the difference between Volvo 740 and 760?
the 740 had either 2l, 2.3l, 2.3l turbo, or turbo diesel. The 760 didn't have the 2l or 2.3l, but had the 2.3 turbo, 2.8 V6, and turbo diesel. Comfort level was different too - 760 had electric seats and climate control. Late model saloons had independant rear suspension.
1991 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:
- Air bags problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Electrical system problems
- Seat belts problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Volvo 740 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1991 Volvo 740 complaints
The NHTSA has received 23 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Volvo 740.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-09
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8850L2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1990 VOLVO 740GL (NA). WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO BOTH ARMS, THE LEFT SHOULDER, AND BACK THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE WAS FILLED WITH AIR BAG DEBRIS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 248,865. UPDATED 05/03/16*LJ *CN
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8846M2
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT: THE OWNER TRIED TO PARK CAR AND WAS SLOWY GOING INTO THE PARKING SPACE. ALL OF SUDDEN THE CAR ACCERELATED AND IT CRASHED INTO A WALL OF A BUILDING. THEN, CAR SMOKED. OWNER SUSTAINED INJURIES . BEFORE THE CAR TOOK OFF THE OWNER WAS GOING 1-2 MPH. THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND INJURED THE OWNER'S ARM.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8843M2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED INADVERTENTLY. DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES ARM, CHEST, AND FACE INJURIES. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-16
- VIN: YV1FA884XM2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH VEHICLE STALLED. CONSUMER TRIED TO RESTART VEHICLE, AND AFTER 60 SECONDS THE VEHICLE STARTED UP AGAIN. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-03
- VIN: YV1FA8745M2
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEAT BELTS BROKE FROM THE ANCHORING AT THE BOTTOM DUE TO DETERIORATION OF THE PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTON. *AK *CB *NLM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE HAD STOP ON A TRAFIC LIGHT AND THEN BEARLY REALESED THE BRAKE PAD AND INPACTED THE FRONT VEHICLE THAT LET THE AIR BAGS DEPLOY. MANUFACTOR WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE RETRAINT SYSTEM PERFORM PROPERLY AND THERE WAS EVIDENCE OF PRIOR ACCIDENT THAT IT WAS DONE SIX YEARS BEFORE WHERE THE ACCIDENT WAS MAJOR AND AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. TS
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-16
- VIN: YV1FA8849M2
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: IN MAY 2000, I HAD A PROBLEM WITH MY CAR EITHER NOT STARTING, AND IF IT DID START IT WOULD STALL AT ANY TIME. THIS SEEMS SIMULAR TO THE INCIDENT WITH THE RECENT COURT ORDERED RECALL OF THE FORD VEHICLE WITH THE FAULTY IGNITION UNIT WHICH CAUSES THE CARS TO STALL AT ANY TIME. IN MY SITUATION, I WAS TOLD THAT THE PART THAT WAS ACTUALLY CAUSING THE PROBLEM COULD NOT BE ISOLATED DOWN TO A SINGLE ITEM. THE PROBLEM THAT I WAS HAVING WAS NEVER DUPLICATED BY THE VOLVO DEALER THAT LOOKED AT IT. THEY KNEW FROM EXPERIENCE THAT THE PROBLEM WAS ONE OF THREE COMPONENTS, THE FUEL PUMP RELAY - P/N 3523608, INJECTOR RELAY - P/N 1323592-1, AND THE ENGINE SPEED SENSOR - P/N 2719949. CHANGING THESE PARTS WAS A NORMAL PROCEDURE FOR THIS SITUATION, I WAS TOLD BY THE VOLVO SERVICE ADVISER. AT THE TIME HE ALSO TOLD ME THAT THEY GET 3 TO 4 OF THESE PROBLEMS IN A MONTH, AND HE DIDN'T SEEM CONCERNED FOR THE POTENTIAL DANGER WITH THE CAR CUTTING OFF WHILE DRIVING, OR THE FACT THAT HE WAS CHANGING TWO PARTS THAT DIDN'T NEED TO BE CHANGED. LATER I WROTE THE MANAGER OF THE VOLVO DEALERSHIP REQUESTING A REFUND FOR THE TWO GOOD PARTS THAT WERE CHANGED AND GOT A REPLY FROM THE SAME SERVICE ADVISER. AT THIS TIME THE NUMBER OF TIMES THEY GET THIS PROBLEM PER MONTH ACCORDING TO HIM DROPPED TO 1 INSTEAD OF THE3 TO 4 PER MONTH THAT HE HAD CLAIMED BEFORE. I POINTED OUT TO HIM THAT THE FACT THAT THE PART NEVER FAILS PERMENATELY IS CAUSE TO CONSIDER IT A DEFECTIVE PART. HE SAID THERE'S NOTHING IN THE BOOK THAT STATES THAT A PART HAS TO FAIL PERMENATELY. I RECOGNIZED THE POTENTIAL FOR DANGER THAT THIS SITUATION HAS FROM THE MOMENT I STARTED HAVING PROBLEMS, BUT DUE TO THE APATHY OF THE SERVICE ADVISER AND THE MANAGER AT THE VOLVO CENTER HERE I WAS HESITANT TO CONTACT NHTSA. SINCE THE JUDGE IN CALIFORNIA SEEMS TO THINK LIKE I DO, I'M NOW BRINGING THIS POTENTIAL PROBLEM TO YOUR ATTENTION. THIS IS THE BASICS OF MY COMPLAINT. PLEASE SEND ME ANY OTHER INFORMATION ON THIS SUBJECT THAT YOU MAY HAVE..
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-09-01
- VIN: YV1FA8856M2
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I TOOK MY CAR IN WHEN THE RED LIGHT ON THE DASHBOARD FOR AIR BAG LIGHTS COMING ON. THE FAIRFAX VOVLO DEALER ESTIMATED MY REPAIRS TO BE $1400.00. I FIND THIS OUTRAGEOUS, THE PART ALONE WAS $1100. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF ANYONE ELSE HAS HAD THIS PROBLEM AND OR IS THIS A ONE TIME CASE. I WILL ALSO SEND AN E-MAIL TO VOLVO. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-01
- VIN: YV1FA8848M2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG MALFUNCTONED. YH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-01
- VIN: YV1FA8848M2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILED. YH
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-01
- VIN: YV1FA8848M2
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING PUMP WAS BROKEN. YH
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-01
- VIN: YV1FA8848M2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED. YH
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-01
- VIN: YV1FA8754M2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE SITTING IDLE AT A STOP LIGHT THE SRS LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON.CONSUMER CONTACTED AN INDEPENDENT VOLVE SERVICE CENTER, AND HAD IT DIAGNOSED WITH A FAILURE OF THE AIR BAG CRASH SENSOR. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FALSE DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAG CAUSED INJURY TO CONSUMER. (ATTORNEY FOR CONSUMER). MJS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-15
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE WA SIN AN ACCIDENT. UPON IMPACT, AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, BUT DIDN'T INFLATE. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION AT 5 MPH . AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS AT A COMPLETE STOP AIRBAG DEPLOYED, CAUSING THE DRIVER TO SUSTAIN MINOR INJURIES. THE MANUFACTURER WILL BE NOTIFIED. *AK
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YV1FA8748M2
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SRS LIGHT INDICATES NOT FUNCTIONAL. IN ADDITION, CENTER/REAR SEAT BELT PLASTIC COVER OVER MALE PORTION OF LATCH CONTINUALLY COMES OFF, CAUSING AN INSIDE PART TO FALL OUT.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-15
- VIN: YV1FA8851M2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WATER PUMP FAILED.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-27
- VIN: YVLFA8848M2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS STRUCK IN FRONT AND AIR BAG DEPLOYED HALF OF THE WAY AND THEN IT BURNT WITHOUT INFLATING ALL THE WAY.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-02-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8749M2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: ASK FOR EXT. 148. HEAD ON ACCIDENT AND AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. SEAT BELT WAS ACTIVE. *AK CONSUMER WAS INJURED IN ACCIDENT. *SLC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-03-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YV1FA8851M2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING CAR STARTED SMOKING PULL OVER CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. TT
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-01
- Crash: 1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING COMING TO A STOP AND START BACK UP CAR ACCELERATED THERE IS NO BRAKE. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-01
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING COMING TO A STOP AND START BACK UP CAR ACCELERATED THERE IS NO BRAKE. TT
1991 Volvo 740 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1991 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.
Negative 1991 Volvo 740 car reviews
Positive 1991 Volvo 740 car reviews
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This car is amazing! When I bought it, it had 167,000 miles and the power is still great. The turbo is incredible! I've gone around 'playing' before in this car, and even with an automatic, it easily peels out. The interior looks good, I just need to get the leather redone (it is a 13-year-old car). The gas mileage is pretty decent, and of course, the car is very safe, typical of Volvo. I would highly recommend this car to anyone who wants a cheap, quick, and safe ride!
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The Volvo that you own sounds like a really fun and easy car to drive!
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I am so happy with my Volvo! It has been with me for six years and it still runs like new, even with 485,787 miles on it. The transmission and engine are smooth and everything still works perfectly. I admit, I push it to the limit at street lights, but it's as tough as a tank and as fast as a hot rod. I only need to change the oil every 3 thousand miles or so and I only had to change the battery once. I paid only $600 for it and someone even offered me $4,000 for it, but I would never sell it. Once you own a Volvo, you'll never want anything else! Thank you for considering Volvo!
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What a great story! It's amazing how a little bit of effort and ingenuity can turn a bad situation into a beloved car. Your Volvo sounds like a reliable and safe daily driver, and it's impressive that it can hold its own against more powerful cars. Although the electronics may be a bit finicky, it's understandable for a car of its age. Thank you for sharing your experience and advice for other Volvo owners!
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I'm Canadian, so please excuse the metric measurements. I just wanted to share my experience with this car. I bought it when it had 316000km on it and drove it for a little over 400000km. I only sold it because I was moving and my fiancee and I didn't need 2 cars. Despite the high mileage, these cars have great bodies and perform amazingly. I would definitely buy another one in a heartbeat.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1991 Volvo 740 problems:
1988 Volvo 740 GLE running problems - Volvo Owners Club Forum
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Other years of Volvo 740
Are you having problems with your 1991 Volvo 740?
Christ Brakus 2024-11-10
I've owned this car for over 12 years and have driven it for more than 100k miles. It has been pretty reliable, but a full service history is a must. The engine has never leaked and only burns a quart of oil every 2.5-3k miles. The transmission has a slight slip in reverse, but all other original parts, including the alternator, starter, radiator, front struts, and electrics, are still in good condition. There are virtually no sunroof leaks, rattles, or squeaks. The only real repeat problem areas have been emissions electronics, engine management, and brakes. The brakes perform wonderfully, but it's not unusual for me to get only 10k miles from the pads and 2-3 times that for rotors.
Jaron Haag 2024-09-27
We had a 1991 740 from the summer of '91 until the fall of '97, when we traded it away. The seats were great, and the ride was firm but solid. However, there were higher interior noise levels than earlier 740s, which I'm told was due to Volvo removing sound absorption materials to reduce weight. Unfortunately, we and that car never quite got along. It's a long story as to why we owned it for so long, but that was our one and only Volvo. It made it to about 125,000 miles, but even the windshield wipers were problematic, to give you an idea. I really wanted a Saab 900, but our local dealer was very low volume and couldn't seem to get in one that was both a 4 door and an automatic in light blue. However, we're now happy with our comfortable and reliable Lincoln.
Alden Harris 2024-04-05
Great handling - and the suspension is still tight. The brakes are also great. The engine and transmission are still running very smoothly.
Toby Schinner 2024-02-03
I invested in Volvo in 1991 with considerable money. I had two new children and thought I was investing in safety and quality. I am one to drive a car for its full life (i.e. 10-15 years).