1999 Volvo 850 problems

volvo logo

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.

1999 Volvo 850

Social links

Common 1999 Volvo 850 problems

Based on the information provided in the sources, here are the common problems with the Volvo 850 1999 model based on complaints from owners:

  • Faulty Ignition Switch: Another common problem is related to faulty ignition switches, leading to illuminated dash lights around 140,000 miles. Owners have shared that wiggling the ignition key temporarily resolves the issue, but it's advisable to have the car checked by a mechanic to ensure there are no underlying severe problems.
  • Oil Leaks: Owners have experienced oil leaks over time, particularly in the turbocharger return pipe seal, starting at approximately 138,400 miles. Some owners only noticed the issue when their turbochargers overheated and produced smoke. It is recommended to address even the smallest oil leak promptly to prevent further complications.
  • Transmission Issues: The 1996 Volvo 850 is known for transmission problems, especially related to improper shifting, which typically manifests around 133,000 miles. This issue can significantly impact the driving experience and may require professional attention.
  • Upper Engine Mount Failure: The upper engine mount, designed to control engine movement during acceleration, has been a common problem in the Volvo 850 models. Owners have reported failures in as little as 10,000 miles, resulting in knocking sounds when accelerating or shifting gears. Replacing this part with improved designs is recommended to address this issue.
  • Odometer/Tripmeter Failure: A common issue in 1993-1997 850 models is the failure of a small plastic gear that drives the odometer and trip meter functions. These gears are prone to cracking with age, leading to intermittent or complete loss of function. Repairing this at a dealership can be costly, but there are aftermarket solutions available for a more affordable fix.
  • Front Strut Mount Failure: Another reported problem is the failure of the rubber encased upper spring seat/strut in various Volvo models, including the 850. This issue can affect the vehicle's suspension system and handling, necessitating replacement to maintain optimal performance.

These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise to ensure the longevity and reliability of the Volvo 850 1999 model.

1999 Volvo 850 engine

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.

When did they stop making Volvo 850?

VOLVO 850 (1991-1996)

When did Volvo stop making the 850?

1997

Volvo 850
Production1991–1997 (716,903 units)
Model years1992–1997
AssemblySweden: Torslanda (Torslandaverken) Belgium: Ghent (VCG) Canada: Halifax (VHA) Indonesia: North Jakarta (PT. ISMAC) Philippines: Santa Rosa, Laguna (Star Motors)
DesignerJan Wilsgaard (1989)

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.

Is the Volvo 850 engine reliable?

According to reports from owners, the 850 can go over 200,000 miles with little to no problems. Some owners have shared that the 850 can go up to 300,000 to 400,000 miles as long as you take care of it by keeping up with its maintenance and service schedule.

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.

When did Volvo stop making the 850?

1997

Volvo 850
Production1991–1997 (716,903 units)
Model years1992–1997
AssemblySweden: Torslanda (Torslandaverken) Belgium: Ghent (VCG) Canada: Halifax (VHA) Indonesia: North Jakarta (PT. ISMAC) Philippines: Santa Rosa, Laguna (Star Motors)
DesignerJan Wilsgaard (1989)

When did they stop making Volvo 850?

VOLVO 850 (1991-1996)

1999 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:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Volvo 850 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1999 Volvo 850 complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Volvo 850.

2002-04-27

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-04-26
  • VIN: YV1TS90D8X1
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: I RECENTLY FILED A COMPLAINT WITH NHTSA AND WOULD LIKE TO REPORT THAT MY CAR DIED WHILE DRIVING ON FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2002. I TOOK THE CAR TO LAWRENCE VOLVO IN WALNUT CREEK, CA. THE MANUFACTURER HAS STATED THAT THE CAR HAS NO NON-CONFORMITIES. THIS IS COMPLETELY FALSE.NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK
1999-05-27

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-05-16
  • VIN: YV1TS90D0X1
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: 1ST UNIT FAILED, REPLACEMENT OF TRANSMISSION LEAKS, REPAIR TO REPLACEMENT UNSUCCESSFUL. STILL ATTEMPTING TO REPAIR. *AK
Leave your review of 1999 Volvo 850

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1999 Volvo 850 problems:

What are the common problems with S70s?
What are the common problems with S70s?
https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=3302

Mar 12, 2005 ... Volvo Forum 850 and S70, V70 ... I have a 98 Volvo S70 with 108K miles and I havn't had any problems so far ... 1999 s80 t6 preventive maintenance/ ...

So what are the common issues to look out for when buying An 1999 ...
So what are the common issues to look out for when buying An 1999 ...
https://volvoforums.com/forum/volvo-s70-33/so-what-common-issues-look-out-when-buying-1999-s70-71032/

May 18, 2013 ... Other issues that pop up on 99 and 00 S70s that don't on the '98s are: Immobilizer system- sometimes, as stuff wears out, the immobilizer doesn' ...

1994 850 N/A Common problems?
1994 850 N/A Common problems?
https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=70565

Jul 1, 2015 ... 1999-V70-T5M56 2005-V70-M56 1999-S70 VW T4 BMW ... 1999 s80 t6 preventive maintenance/common problems to watch for ... Volvo 850 AWD Common rust ...

Common Problems with 1999 Volvo S70: Q&A
Common Problems with 1999 Volvo S70: Q&A
https://www.justanswer.com/volvo/4a9pv-volvo-s70-1999-volvo-s70-problem-when-start.html

Dec 1, 2010 ... When the antenna ring fails, it will typically have a high resistance, or be shorted. If nothing is found remove the ring and tap while watching ...

Common faults on 1999 S70? : r/Volvo
Common faults on 1999 S70? : r/Volvo
https://www.reddit.com/r/Volvo/comments/17nliif/common_faults_on_1999_s70/

Nov 4, 2023 ... PCV system likes to clog and build pressure in the crankcase, causing oil to leak past all the seals, including possibly the rear main. The main ...

Other years of Volvo 850

volvo 850 2000 photo
850 2000
Volvo

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo 850 1993 photo
850 1993
Volvo

83

1

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo 850 1994 photo
850 1994
Volvo

107

3

26

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo 850 1995 photo
850 1995
Volvo

153

3

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo 850 1996 photo
850 1996
Volvo

214

3

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo 850 1997 photo
850 1997
Volvo

138

3

23

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 1999 Volvo 850?

Add car complaint
1999 Volvo 850 photo