1997 Volvo 850 problems
The Volvo 850 is a compact executive car that was produced by the Swedish manufacturer Volvo Cars from 1991 until 1996. Designed by Jan Wilsgaard, the car was introduced in a saloon body style; an estate style was introduced in 1993.
The Volvo 850 was shown for the first time in June 1991, and the car marked a departure for Volvo, featuring multiple unprecedented features for the company; these included a transverse 5-cylinder engine driving the front wheels, a Delta-link rear axle, a side impact protection system, and a self-adjusting front seat belt mechanism.
The Volvo 850 was succeeded by the Volvo S70 and Volvo V70.
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Common 1997 Volvo 850 problems
The Volvo 850, produced in 1997, is known for its reliability and robustness, but like all cars, it has common problems that owners have reported. Here are some of the most common issues:
- Engine Cranks Over and Doesn't Start: This problem has been reported by 27 car owners, making it the most common issue with the Volvo 850.
- AC Evaporator Failure: The evaporator for the air conditioning system is a common problem in the Volvo 850, especially in the 1997 model.
- Upper Engine Mount Failure: This problem affects the 1993 850 and later models, including the 1997 Volvo 850.
- Anti Sway Bar End Link Failure: This problem affects the 1993-2000 850, C70, S70, and V70 models, including the 1997 Volvo 850.
- Front Strut Mount Failure: This problem affects the 1993-2000 850, C70, S70, and V70 models, including the 1997 Volvo 850.
- Fuel Door Hinge Failure: This problem affects the 1993-2000 850, C70, S70, and V70 models, including the 1997 Volvo 850.
- Shift Interlock Failure: This problem affects the 1993-2000 850, C70, S70, and V70 models, including the 1997 Volvo 850.
- ABS Control Module Failure: This problem affects the 1993-2000 850, C70, S70, and V70 models, including the 1997 Volvo 850.
- Bad Valve Stem Seals: This problem affects the 850 models, including the 1997 Volvo 850.
- Clogged PCV and Bad Piston Rings: This problem affects the 850 models, including the 1997 Volvo 850.
In summary, the Volvo 850, produced in 1997, is known for its reliability and robustness, but like all cars, it has common problems that owners have reported. These problems include engine cranks over and doesn't start, AC evaporator failure, upper engine mount failure, anti-sway bar end link failure, front strut mount failure, fuel door hinge failure, shift interlock failure, ABS control module failure, bad valve stem seals, clogged PCV, and bad piston rings. While some of these issues can be fixed with simple repairs, others may require more extensive work, and it's essential to address them promptly to ensure the safety and longevity of the car.
What is the top speed of a 1997 Volvo 850 R?
The T-5R was renowned as a sleeper car; despite its boxy, understated appearance, it boasted a drag coefficient of 0.29 and was capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.8 – 6.0 seconds (depending on transmission and body type). The top speed was electronically limited to 152.2 mph (244.9 km/h).
Is the Volvo 850 a good first car?
With such vast production numbers, the Volvo 850 is not that difficult to find even now, when even the last production models have been on the roads for 25 years. With superb reliability, safety, and comfort, this revolutionary Volvo is simply the perfect first car.
How many Volvo 850 are left?
There are 33,705,243 cars & other vehicles with valid MOTs. There are 7 VOLVO 850 left in the UK with an MOT. 0.0000% of all UK vehicles are VOLVO 850.
When did they stop making Volvo 850?
VOLVO 850 (1991-1996)
Is the Volvo 850 a good first car?
With such vast production numbers, the Volvo 850 is not that difficult to find even now, when even the last production models have been on the roads for 25 years. With superb reliability, safety, and comfort, this revolutionary Volvo is simply the perfect first car.
What is the top speed of the 1997 Volvo 850?
The 850 T5 is capable of top speeds in excess of 250 kilometres per hour (155 mph) when ungoverned. Production models of the estate and saloon have been tested to maximum speeds of 147 mph.
Is Volvo 850 T5 reliable?
The T5 is just as solid as any other Volvo engine , The blocks are not weak , that is why they are 2.3 because the bores are 1mm smaller to strengthen the liners . lots of T5 engines are 20 years old now and you cannot have foreseen how badly they have been serviced or mistreated … during all that time ...
When did Volvo stop making the 850?
1997
| Volvo 850 | |
|---|---|
| Production | 1991–1997 (716,903 units) |
| Model years | 1992–1997 |
| Assembly | Sweden: Torslanda (Torslandaverken) Belgium: Ghent (VCG) Canada: Halifax (VHA) Indonesia: North Jakarta (PT. ISMAC) Philippines: Santa Rosa, Laguna (Star Motors) |
| Designer | Jan Wilsgaard (1989) |
1997 Volvo 850 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo 850 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Seats problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Volvo 850 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Volvo 850
The NHTSA has received 138 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Volvo 850. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Volvo 850 vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- VIN: YV1LS5544V1
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: SIMILAR TO NHTSA ID NUMBER: 10365806. WHEN FUEL TANK IS FILLED COMPLETELY, THERE IS A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE AND SOME FUEL ODOR IN THE TRUNK. NO ODOR WHEN TANK IS ONLY PARTIALLY FULL, E.G., 80% FULL. ODOR NOTICED WHEN VEHICLE STATIONARY. NO ODOR IN PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. ISSUE ONGOING FOR ROUGHLY LAST 7 YEARS (NOT SURE). NO DRIPPING FUEL OBSERVED. LEAK MAY BE AT FUEL PUMP QUICK-DISCONNECT FITTINGS. LEAK MAY HAVE STARTED AS A RESULT OF EVAP SYSTEM REPAIR IN LATE 2009--NOT SURE. DEALER CLAIMED TO HAVE FIXED LEAK AT FUEL PUMP FITTINGS IN 2011, BUT ODOR ISSUE PERSISTS IF TANK COMPLETELY FULL. NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ISSUES SINCE 2011. I AVOID FILLING TANK COMPLETELY TO AVOID ODOR. IF I INADVERTENTLY FILL TANK COMPLETELY, ODOR RETURNS. "WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN" DATE I ENTERED IS JUST A ROUGH GUESS OF WHEN THE ISSUE STARTED. VEHICLE IS STORED OUTDOORS AND DRIVEN INFREQUENTLY, ~ ONCE PER WEEK AVERAGE. ODOR IS EASILY NOTICEABLE OUTDOORS WHEN TANK IS COMPLETELY FULL.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-26
- VIN: YV1LS5540V1
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: GENERAL ALTIMAX RT43. I HAD 4 TIRES IN LESS THAN 6 MONTHS AND 6,000 MILES DEVELOP SIDE WALL BUBBLES CAUSED BY TIRE PLAY SEPARATION AND BANDS BREAKING. I TIRE HADE BEEN REPLACED AND IT DEVELOPED A BUBBLE IN LESS THAN A MONTH. NO HARD DRIVING ON THE CAR AND NO POTHOLES OR RAILROAD TRACK IMPACTS. THIS IS A COMMON THREAD AND IT IS TIME FOR THE NHTSA TO INVESTIGATE. I HAVE NOW BOUGHT SIX TIRES IN SIX MONTHS TO REPLACE THE DAMAGED TIRES. I AM STILL WAITING TO HERE IF GENERAL WILL REPLACE ONE UNDER WARRANTY AND HAVE ANOTHER IN THE TRUNK OF MY CAR THAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED WHILE I DRIVE AROUND ON THE SPARE TIRE. THIS SHOULD NOT HAPPEN UNDER NORMAL USE. PRIOR TO THIS I HAVE DRIVEN APPROXIMATELY 1MILLION MILES AND HAVE NEVER HAD TO REPLACE A TIRE DUE TO SIDE WALL BUBBLES.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-03
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1LS5547V1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE TIRE DEALER RECOMMENDED MICHELIN PRIMACY MXV4 AS A REPLACEMENT TIRE FOR MY 1997 VOLVO 850 (NORMALLY ASPIRATED) SEDAN. THE MICHELIN WEBSITE DESCRIBED THIS TIRE AS AN "ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTE" FOR THE TIRES SPECIFIED BY VOLVO BECAUSE MICHELIN NO LONGER OFFERS HIGH PERFORMANCE TIRES IN MY SIZE. STOPPING POWER IS MUCH WORSE WITH THESE NEW MICHELIN TIRES. THEY SQUEAL EASILY, EVEN AT VOLVO'S HIGHEST RECOMMENDED AIR PRESSURE (36PSI). I HAD DIFFICULTY STOPPING FROM 50MPH IN AN EMERGENCY, FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY 17 YEAR OWNERSHIP OF THIS VEHICLE. I BLAME THESE NEW "COMFORT ORIENTED" TIRES. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-12
- VIN: YV1LS5648V2
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 VOLVO 850. THE CONTACT STATED WHEN FUEL WAS DISPENSED INTO THE FUEL TANK TO THE FULL CAPACITY LEVEL, SHE WOULD SMELL A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THERE WOULD BE FUEL LEAKAGE ON THE GROUND UNDERNEATH THE FUEL TANK. THE FUEL WAS DISPENSED TO THREE QUARTERS OF A TANK TO AVOID THE FAILURE. THERE WAS A RECALL ASSOCIATED WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V368000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE). THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DEFECT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-03
- VIN: YV1LS5645V1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ODOMETER FAILURE AT UNDER 90,000 MILES. ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT; NOT TAMPERED WITH; VEHICLE NEVER IN AN ACCIDENT. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-01
- VIN: YV1LW555XV2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: UNINTENDED ACCELERATION. CAR IN NORMAL DRIVE, JUST STARTS TO ACCELERATE. ALSO SOMETIMES ENGINE RACES WHILE IN PARK OR IDLE FOR NO REASON. OCCURS RANDOMLY, BUT HAS BEEN RECURRING DAILY FOR TWO WEEKS. HAVEN'T TAKEN TO DEALER YET. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-10
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1LW5545V2
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: IN A PARKING GARAGE I TURNED MY WHEELS TOWARDS THE LEFT TO DRIVE INTO A PARKING SPOT; I GAVE THE CAR A LITTLE GAS WHILE DRIVING OVER A SPEEDBUMP AND SUDDENLY THE CAR ACCELERATED AND SHOT FORWARD AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED. THANKFULLY THE CAR WENT INTO THAT PARKING SPOT AND HIT THE CEMENT WALL AND STOPPED. I THOUGHT IT WAS A ONE-TIME OCCURRENCE BUT WITH ALL THE REPORTS OF TOYOTA ACCELERATION PROBLEMS, NOW I WONDER IF THIS CAN OCCUR IN ANY CAR AT ANY TIME. I HAVE A 1997 VOLVO STATION WAGON. WITH SPEED BUMPS ON MANY STREETS NEAR SCHOOLS, IF THIS CAN HAPPEN ON ALMOST ANY CAR, THEN THE POTENTIAL FOR MAJOR ACCIDENTS IS UNLIMITED. I WILL ALWAYS KEEP MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL WHILE GOING OVER ANY SPEED BUMP FROM NOW ON, AND AM JUST THANKFUL THAT I WAS JUST A COUPLE OF FEET FROM A CEMENT WALL AND HAD ALREADY TURNED MY WHEELS. FOR THOSE REASONS, NO DAMAGE WAS DONE TO EITHER THE WALL, MY CAR OR THE OCCUPANTS. (IN THE MILEAGE AND SPEED INFO. ON THIS FORM I CAN ONLY GUESS AT THE MILEAGE AT THE TIME OF INCIDENT AND THE SPEED AT WHICH THE CAR ACCELERATED.) *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-01
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: ABS MODULE FAILED. LOOKS LIKE MAJOR DEALER REPAIR. THIS IS A MAJOR COMPONENT OF THE VEHICLE AND SHOULD BE TREATED AS SUCH AND NO LONGER TREATED AS AN ACCESSORY ITEM. FOR THESE DEVICES TO BE CONSIDERED AN "ACCESSORY" THEY SHOULD THEN BE MADE AS USER REPLACEABLE WHICH IS NOT THE CASE. THEN AGAIN, IS IT A GOOD IDEA TO HAVE EVERY SUNDAY-MECHANIC REPLACING SUCH A CRITICAL ITEM? I HAVE HAD AN ABS WARNING LIGHT FOR OVER TWO YEARS NOW. DIAGNOSTICS SAY ITS THE ABS ELECTRONICS. I DO NOT HAVE THE BUDGET OR EXPERIENCE TO REPLACE IT. SEVERAL WEBSITES POINT TO FAILING OR DEFECTIVE CAPACITORS ON THE ELECTRONIC MODULE ITSELF. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-11-26
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER USED FAMILY CAR, VOLVO 1997, 850 WAGON AND THE ACCELERATOR FAILED WIDE OPEN. SHE NARROWLY MISSED 5 YOUNG CHILDREN PLAYING STREET HOCKEY. CAR IS INOPERABLE AND MUST BE TOWED TO SERVICE STATION FOR EVALUATION AND REPAIR. *TR
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-12
- VIN: YV1LW5547V2
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 VOLVO 850 WAGON. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A SERVICE STATION FOR TIRE REPAIR AND THE FOLLOWING FAILURES WERE DISCOVERED: BOTH REAR BRAKES AND CALIPERS WERE SEIZED AND COMPLETELY INOPERABLE, THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS ALSO INOPERABLE, AND BOTH FRONT INNER AND OUTER TIE RODS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE ESTIMATED REPAIR COST WAS $1,230. THE VOLVO DEALER DIAGNOSED THE FOLLOWING FAILURES: BOTH FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARMS AND THE DRIVER SIDE TIE RODS FAILED, AN ALIGNMENT WAS NEEDED, THE FRONT AND REAR BRAKES FAILED, INCLUDING THE ROTOR AND CALIPERS, AND THERE WAS AN EMISSIONS ISSUE AS WELL. THE VEHICLE NEEDS COMPLETE EMISSION REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED ON JUNE 21, 2008 AND PASSED INSPECTION ON JUNE 25, 2008. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 127,700.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-01
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 VOLVO 850. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO VIBRATE FOR APPROXIMATELY 5 TO 10 MINUTES. THE TREAD THEN BEGAN TO SEPARATE FROM THE TIRE AND CONTINUOUSLY STRUCK THE FENDER OF THE VEHICLE. THE FENDER, PASSENGER SIDE DOOR, AND ROCKER PANEL WERE DAMAGED. THE CONTACT HAS NOT NOTIFIED THE TIRE MANUFACTURER. THE VIN, PURCHASE DATE, ENGINE SIZE, AND NUMBER OF CYLINDERS WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 240,000.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-29
- VIN: YV1LS5649V2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 VOLVO 850. THE HEADLIGHTS WOULD NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED. THE HEADLIGHTS WOULD ALSO NOT DIM WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF. THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH WAS DEFECTIVE, BUT IT WAS NEVER USED BY THE CONTACT. WHEN THE SWITCH WAS ENGAGED, THE HIGH BEAMS WOULD MOMENTARILY ILLUMINATE. HER VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 99V235000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH). THE PURCHASE DATE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 100,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-17
- VIN: YV1LS5649V2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: 1. LOSS OF ACCELERATION AND SOMETIMES STALLING DURING FREEWAY TRANSITION FROM ON RAMP TO FREEWAY AND OR DURING LEFT TURNING AGAINST TRAFFIC. 2. THE CAR FAILED TO ACCELERATE AND THE ACTION OF PUSHING THE ACCELERATOR CAUSED THE TRANSMISSION TO DOWN SHIFT CAUSING THE EXTREME SLOWING AND SOMETIMES STALLING. THE CONSEQUENCES WERE THAT TRAFFIC WAS GOING CONSIDERABLY FASTER AND HAD TO TAKE EVASIVE ACTION TO AVOID HITTING THE SLOWING CAR. 3. TODAY THE MEDIA REPORTED A POTENTIAL RECALL OF VOLVO'S DUE TO THIS PROBLEM AND I BELIEVE IT SHOULD BE EXTENDED TO 1997 MODEL 850 GLT. *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1LS5642V2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 35MPH ON A CITY STREET, THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONT IMPACT COLLISION AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT WAS WEARING A SEAT BELT, NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THERE WAS MINOR DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. THE POLICE WERE ALERTED, AND A REPORT WAS TAKEN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT ALERTED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-01
- VIN: YV1LW5641V2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE TRAC OFF LIGHT COMES ON ON MY 1997 VOLVO 850 GLT TURBO WAGON. APPARENTLY, THE TRAC, NO LONGER WORKS AND I HAVE TO PAY HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS TO GET IT FIXED. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL AND RELATES DIRECTLY TO A SAFETY CLAIM MADE BY VOLVO. FROM THE LIST SERV THAT I AM ON, APPARENTLY THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM AMONGST 1996-1998 VOLVOS. *JB
SUSPENSION,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-17
- VIN: YV1LS5556V1
- Components: SUSPENSION,TIRES
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE VIBRATED AND THE STEERING WAS ERRATIC. THE CONTACT NOTICED UNUSUAL HYDROPLANING IN SMALL PUDDLES OF WATER ON THE HIGHWAY. THE CONTACT NOTICED CHUNKS ON THE OUTSIDE RIM OF THE PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP DETERMINED THERE WAS UNUSUAL WEAR ON THE TIRES. THE DEALERSHIP DETERMINED THE ALIGNMENT WAS BAD ON THE VEHICLE THAT WAS THE PROBLEM WITH THE TIRES. THE TIRE MANUFACTURER WAS MICHELIN. MODEL: ENERGY. SIZE: 195/60/R15.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-08
- VIN: YV1LW5649V2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR WOULD NOT START - APPEARED TO BE DEAD BATTERY - REPLACED BATTERY - CAR STARTED, NEXT DAY CAR BATTERY DEAD - JUMPED BATTERY, CAR STARTED-2 HOURS LATER CAR BATTERY DEAD - TESTED NEW BATTERY TESTED OK. JUMPED BATTERY TOOK CAR TO VOLVO DEALER - LAWRENCE MOTORS IN WALNUT CREEK - TOOK SERVICE DEPARTMENT 1 DAY? TO DIAGNOSE - "WIRING HARNESS NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AT $2,000 COST!! CAR TO BE READY IN 3 TO 4 WEEKS (SEPTEMBER 1ST), THEN DELAYED (UNKNOWN REASONS), DELAYED TO OCT 1ST, AS OF TODAYS CALL OCT 6, 2005 WAS ADVISED CAR NOT AVAILABLE UNTIL POSSIBLY NOV 1ST. WHY WOULD A CAR WITH 100,000 MILES AND 8 YEARS OLD (ALWAYS PROPERLY SERVICED) REQUIRE A NEW WIRING HARNESS? AND AT SUCH A COST? AND WHY DOES THE PART TAKE OVER 90 DAYS TO RECEIVE?*JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-07
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: HEATING AND COOLING FAN STARTED COMING ON, 7/7/2003, CAR OVER HEATED 10/04, DEALER REPLACED FAN AT MY COST. SHIFT OVER DRIVE LIGHT CAME ON 12/04 DEALER REPLACED SOLENOID SWITCH, 6/05 SHIFT OVER DRIVE SWITCH CAME BACK ON, NOW 2 SOLENOIDS ARE NOT WORKING AND MY CAR IS IN LIMP HOME MODE. NO 1ST OR 2 GEAR. *NM
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-01
- VIN: YV1LW5644V2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
- Summary: ABS CONTROL MODULE FAILURE ON 1987 VOLVO 850
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-23
- VIN: YV1LW5643V2
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT RETRATOR ON BACK PASSENGER SEAT IS STUCK. THE SEAT BELT CANNOT BE USED.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-01
- VIN: YV1LW5542V2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHTS FAILED WHILE ON HIGHWAY. HEADLIGHT SWITCH DID NOT WORK. I PHONED VOLVO TO HONOR THE RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER : 99V235000. VOLVO INFORMED ME THIS VOLVO DID NOT QUALIFY.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-01
- VIN: YV1LW5727V2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THIS COMPLAINT APPLIES TO TWO YEARS OF THE SAME MODEL 850 VOLVO,A 1994 AND A1997T. BOTH CARS HAD MAIN OIL SEAL FAILURES. THE 1994 CAR WAS A HIGH MILEAGE CAR WITH ABOUT 180,000 MILES IT STARTED LEAKING AT 150,000 MILES AND PROGRESSIVELY GOT WORSE TO POINT OF ONE TO TWO QUARTS A DAY. WE DECIDED TO TRADE THE CAR IN AND PURCHASE ANOTHER 850 BECAUSE WE HAD GOOD SERVICE OUT OF THE CAR EXCEPT FOR THE OIL LEAKS. I WAS HONEST WITH THE DEALER WHY I WAS TRADING IN THE CAR. THE DEALER WAS THE LOCAL DEALER FOR DAYTON OHIO,FRANK Z IMPORTS. THE SALESMAN FAILED TO INFORM US THAT THIS IS A CHRONIC PROBLEM WITH THE 850 MODEL. NOW THE 1997 MODEL STARTED LEAKING AT 90,000 MILES. I DISCOVERED THIS IS A CHRONIC PROBLEM WHEN I RESEARCHED COMPLAINT FILES. I ALSO DISCOVERED THIS HAS CAUSED SEVERAL ENGINE FIRES DUE TO OIL LEAKING ON HOT EXHAUST PIPES . I FEEL THE DEALER OR MFG. SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THESE REPAIRS. TO CORRECT THIS OBVIOUS MFG.PROBLEM. I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED WITH THE CAR MFG. AND THE DEALER FOR NOT BEING HONEST ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. I USED TO PRAISE VOLVO, FOR I AM A AIRCRAFT MECHANIC OF 25 YEARS. I WILL NO LONGER DO SO AND IF ASKED I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND A VOLVO OR FRANK Z IMPORTS. *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-20
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: I HAVE A 1997 VOLVO MODEL 850 T-5 THAT I WAS DRIVING DURING A SNOW AND ICE STORM WHEN THE HEATER/BLOWER STOPPED WORKING FOR NO REASON, THUS CAUSING CONSIDERABLE DRAIN ON MY DRIVING REFLEXES AND BEING ABLE TO SEE SINCE THE WINDOWS ALL STARTED TO FOG UP ON THE INSIDE AND ICE ON THE OUTSIDE. THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED THE DRIVER TO BECOME INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE HEATER/BLOWER. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT THIS IS COMMON FOR THIS TYPE OF VOLVO THAT THE HEATER BLOWERS FAIL FOR NO REASON AND WITHOUT WARNING. ALSO TO REPLACE THIS HEATER/BLOWER WILL COST OVER 500.00 . THIS IS NOT RIGHT SINCE A HEATER/BLOWER IS ONE OF THE MAIN COMPONENTS OF A VEHICLE IN THE NORTH EAST PART OF THE USA, AND FOR THAT MATTER ANYWHERE.. ALSO I WAS TOLD THAT EVEN WITH A NEW MOTOR BLOWER, IT COULD HAPPEN AGAIN WITHOUT WARNING. IT COULD EVEN HAPPEN A DAY AFTER THE INSTALLATION OF THE NEW ONE SINCE THIS IS THE WAY VOLVO HAS MADE THEM. I THINK IT SHOULD BE LOOKED INTO AS THIS IS VERY, VERY DANGEROUS.. *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-01
- VIN: YV1LW5728V2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING TO WORK, 7:30 A.M., CLEAR SUNNY COLD DAY. TRAVELING 55 MPH ON I 190 EXTENSION NEAR O'HARE AIRPORT IN CHGO. THE SRS LIGHT CAME ON MY DASHBOARD (WHICH I'VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE) AND AN INSTANT LATER THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG EXPLODED OUT OF THE DASHBOARD. IT RIPPED APART THE DASHBOARD, AND CRACKED THE WINDSHIELD COMPLETELY ACROSS. I PULLED OVER TO THE RIGHT SHOULDER, TURNED THE CAR OFF AND QUICKLY GOT OUT. THE FUMES AND DUST FROM THE AIRBAG WERE TERRIBLE. ALTHOUGH DRIVE-ABLE, I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE VOLVO OF LISLE, IL DEALER SINCE IT SEEMED TO ME TO BE AN OBVIOUS MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT. NO CRASH, NO ACCIDENT, NO COLLISION, AND A SPLIT SECOND WARNING.*AK THE DEALER REPS HAVE HAD MY CAR FOR 3 WEEKS. THE DEALER INITIALLY SAID THAT THEY COULD FIND NO REASON FOR THE DEPLOYMENT, BUT WOULDN'T BEGIN ANY REPAIR UNLESS I/MY INSURER PAID THE BILL. I WAS IN TOUCH WITH VOLVO OF N.A. WITHIN 24 HOURS. THEY INDICATED THAT THEY WOULD SEND OUT AN ENGINEER TO INVESTIGATE. TO DATE, I'VE NOT GOTTEN A REPORT OR AN ANSWER ON THE STATUS OF THIS INVESTIGATION, MY CAR SITS UNREPAIRED AT THE DEALER, AND I'M ON WEEK 3 WITH A RENTAL CAR THAT I FEEL THEY NEED TO PAY FOR AS WELL. I COULD REALLY USE AN ADVOCATE HERE---I'M GETTING A RUN-AROUND.
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-18
- VIN: YV1LS5649V1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
- Summary: ABS LIGHT COMING ON AND STAYING ON REPEATEDLY. AFTER NUMEROUS RESETS BY MY VOLVO REPAIR SHOP, THEY DETERMINED THAT THE ABS TRACTION CONTROL COMPUTER MODULE HAD FAILED. THE UNIT HAD TO BE REPLACED AT A COST TO ME OF $642.93. THE REPAIR SHOP INFORMED ME THAT THEY WERE DOING AN AVERAGE OF ONE OR TWO SUCH REPLACEMENTS ON THIS MODEL PER WEEK AND THAT THEY BELIEVED THIS TO BE A DEFECT FROM THE MANUFACTURE FOR THIS MODEL IN GENERAL. THE REPAIR SHOP WORKS EXCLUSIVELY ON VOLVOS, HUBBARD WOODS MOTORS, 985 GREENBAY ROAD, WINNETKA, IL, 60093; PHONE 8470446-0711; OWNER, ROBERT L. BERGER. *NM
1997 Volvo 850 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1997 Volvo 850.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, AFTER PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO HEAT, THE FUEL TANK MAY SEEP OR LEAK FUEL AT THE POINTS WHERE THE HEAT SHIELD IS ATTACHED.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: VOLVO WILL INSPECT THE FUEL TANK AND REPLACE IT IF ANY EVIDENCE OF FUEL SEEPAGE OR LEAKAGE IS FOUND. ALL VEHICLES WILL RECEIVE NEW REINFORCEMENT BUSHINGS AT THE HEAT SHIELD ATTACHMENT POINTS TO PREVENT FUTURE LEAKS. THIS RECALL WILL BE CONDUCTED AS A SAFETY RECALL IN THE HOT WEATHER STATES OF ALABAMA, ARKANSAS, ARIZONA, CALIFORNIA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, HAWAII, LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI, NEVADA, NEW MEXICO, NORTH CAROLINA, OKLAHOMA, SOUTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, AND UTAH, AND AS A SERVICE RECALL IN THE OTHER 33 STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 24, 2004. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF NA, INC.
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: ON SOME SEDANS AND STATION WAGONS EQUIPPED WITH SEAT HEATERS, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT EXCESSIVE COMPRESSION OF THE SEAT CUSHION COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE ELECTRICAL WIRING OF THE SEAT HEATER.
- Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, THE DAMAGE COULD RESULT IN A SHORT CIRCUIT THAT COULD CAUSE A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL DISCONNECT THE EXISTING WIRES AND INSTALL A NEW ELECTRONIC THERMOSTAT AND CABLE HARNESS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 19, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF NA, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. OPERATION OF THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH, OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, CAN RESULT IN INCONSISTENT OPERATION OF THE SWITCH.
- Consequence: DRIVER'S COULD EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF VISIBILITY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH.
Negative 1997 Volvo 850 car reviews
Positive 1997 Volvo 850 car reviews
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Your 1997 850 T5 sounds like a fantastic car! It's great to hear that it has been such a reliable and enjoyable drive for you, especially with over 200K miles on the clock. The 5 cylinder engine seems to be doing a great job, providing good power and a reliable 25 mpg. You must be really pleased with your find!
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Original owner, now 55k miles. This is the best car I have ever owned, but I have experienced two major faults. The A/C is prone to break downs, specifically the controls and doors in the dash. Additionally, during heavy rain storms, water splashing into the engine compartment causes the dash warning lights to come on and loss of power steering, etc. I believe the belt must get wet and slip. However, the service at the dealer is excellent. I am even thinking about buying another one!
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I see that you've owned 2 850 sedans and this is your first turbo wagon. It's great to hear that you've been having nothing but fun driving it!
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I bought this car with around 95,000 miles on it. Like many other people, I noticed what looked like an oil leak and found out that the rear main seal and the turbo seal broke, but luckily the warranty lasted until 100,000 miles so I got that fixed for free. Other than that, there have been no problems, and I've driven it for another 5,000 miles. The ride is good, and the side curtain airbags and traction control make this a safe car.
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I was pleasantly surprised by its performance when I first drove it. It was very responsive in traffic, quick and easy to maneuver. I particularly liked the turning radius. Although the layout on the dash was somewhat odd, I quickly got used to it. I even traveled through the California desert and into the Sierras with the outside temperature of about 100F, five people in the car and it had no problem. It never slowed down when climbing.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Volvo 850 problems:
Common Problems : Are 850's Reliable Cars ? | Volvo Owners Forum
Feb 9, 2006 ... Hi I'm new here and hope to learn a lot from the site. I'm looking at a 1997 850 wagon. The car has 150k and is pretty clean. the owners was ...
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Jan 16, 2020 ... IPD Volvo's Top 10 Most Common Problems with 1993-2000 850, C70, S70 and V70 Models · Upper Engine Mount Failure · Anti Sway Bar End Link Failure.
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Aug 31, 2023 ... Hard Starting and Stalling. 1993-1997 Volvo 850 fuel pump problems may cause your vehicle to stall and become difficult to start.
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Mar 12, 2005 ... To all Vovlo fans (like myself)! I am thinking of buying a Volvo S70 2000. Please tell me what problems ... 1992 - 1997 850, including 850 R, 850 ...
Reliability Issues in 1997 850 T5 - Volvo Forums - Volvo Enthusiasts ...
May 31, 2008 ... Volvo 850 - Reliability Issues in 1997 850 T5 - I'm in the market to purchase a used car to replace my 1990 740 wagon (I love it, ...
Other years of Volvo 850
Are you having problems with your 1997 Volvo 850?
Stephon Bashirian 2024-08-17
The car performs well, but there are some issues that need to be addressed. The AC is necessary for most of the year, and the trunk is too small with poor interior storage. Additionally, lane changes can be hazardous due to the large 'B' pillar. The biggest concern is the need for repairs, so it is recommended to have an extended warranty. The car has already undergone about thirty repairs, with many trouble areas such as toy-like plastic parts, air conditioning, exterior trim, ABS, brake rotors, tappets, spark plug wires that short-out after mild water spray under the hood, rear gas shocks, engine mounts, and others. While the car had good early reliability, it is aging rapidly.
Sylvan O'Keefe 2024-06-19
This car has experienced a few minor and moderate issues, including repairing the AC, minor electrical problems, and some fit/quality issues. The motor on the antenna and gas cap have been lost, which is quite frustrating. The radio reception is not great, and the moon roof fits poorly. In terms of handling, the car feels a bit heavy, and there is not much control in turns. While I had high expectations for Volvo's attention to detail, I believe there is room for improvement.
Quincy Keebler 2024-05-28
I thoroughly enjoyed my 740 and drove it for 165,000 miles without any issues. However, I was disappointed with the 850 as it has had several problems. Despite spending $1200 on an AC leak, which should have been covered by Volvo due to a design defect, I still had to pay for the repair. Additionally, the anti-lock brakes are out, and I have had trouble getting my tires to last more than 25000 miles. Furthermore, the trim on the outside is falling off. Despite these issues, I still find it enjoyable to drive when it runs correctly.
Johnson Legros 2024-02-12
I purchased a '97 Volvo from a large dealership in Washington DC. Unfortunately, the car did not meet my expectations and required frequent repairs. Despite being a 'certified used car,' it did not perform well. I would recommend considering other options instead of Volvo.
Uriel Kiehn 2024-01-10
This car is perfect for casual driving. The turbo provides a nice boost, and it responds better to a steady application of throttle than stomping on the pedal. It has decent torque at low RPM, making it adept at city driving, even in hills. The leather interior is nice, although the control layout is a bit odd. Over time, it has held up well with no major problems with rattles, except sometimes from the sunroof. Although the handling is not great, it is still surprisingly nice, even after all these years. Interestingly, the car isn't as heavy as you'd think. I bought it in 2000 with 50k miles, and now at 185k, it's still going strong. I've stayed up-to-date on service, which has helped keep it in great condition!