1996 Volvo 900 problems
The Volvo 900 Series is a range of executive cars produced by the Swedish manufacturer Volvo Cars from 1990 to 1998. The 900 Series was introduced in 1990 to replace the 700 Series from which it derived. Prior to the end of its production, the 960 was renamed as the Volvo S90 (saloon) and Volvo V90 (estate), and the 940 was renamed 940 Classic, becoming the last rear-wheel-drive cars from Volvo, until the 2023 Volvo XC40.
Visible differences between the 700 and the 900 Series included redesigned rear styling of the saloon models (late 700 estates and early 900 estates are visually identical). The 960 was introduced in 1991 along with a new family of modular engines, and then was substantially revised for the 1995 model year, improving the handling. The range was augmented by the new Volvo 850 in 1991. The last of the 900s was sold in 1998. Some 900 Series were built as chassis for ambulances and hearses after the main production run had been completed.
Volvo 940
Introduced in September 1990, the 940 was essentially a cosmetic reskin of the 740 aside from the completely redesigned rear from the C pillar back on the sedan. The new, taller trunk did diminish rearward vision but provided a larger opening to a larger boot than on the 700-series. The dashboard and seats were all new, offering a bit more headroom and the option of an integrated child booster seat in the rear. All drivetrains, and most options available in the 940 had been available in the 740, with the exception of the 780 Coupé. The 940 was more closely related to the 740 than the 760, sharing similar drivetrain choices and sheet metal from the A-pillar forward. In contrast, the 960 was an evolution of the 760. The 760 / 960 front sheet metal, independent rear suspension, dashboard, and other interior features were all exclusive to the two upscale models. The 940 estate, introduced in May 1991, was almost identical to its 740 estate predecessor.
The engines options were carried over from the 740, with 8-valve 2-litre (B200) and 2.3-litre (B230) four cylinder gasoline engines, either naturally aspirated or turbocharged, as well as the familiar 2.4-litre Volkswagen six-cylinder diesel and turbodiesels being fitted. There were also 16-valve versions of the gasoline engines fitted on some 1991 and 1992 models (B204, B234, naturally aspirated). The 2-litre 16-valve engine was fitted to the 940 base model in Italy at the time of introduction, to mark it being a step up from the 740. After the 740 was discontinued, the eight-valve engine found its way into the 940 as well. The 2.3-litre turbocharged version produces 165 PS (121 kW); Volvo sold a chip tuning kit called Turbo+ which boosted the power to 190 PS (140 kW).
In 1994, gasoline engine range was limited to 2.3 engines in Britain, but the 2.0-litre engines remained available in markets with tight tax limits, such as Italy, Belgium, and Portugal. A low-pressure turbocharged version of the B230, the B230FK, debuted in 1994 – maximum power was only up slightly over the B230FB, from 131 to 135 PS (96 to 99 kW), but torque increased throughout the range and there was virtually no turbo lag due to the small size of the charger. The 155 PS (114 kW) turbocharged 2.0 was first presented in February 1991. Originally intended for Italy and other markets with significant taxation thresholds at two litres, it was later also installed in the British-market 940 SE. The most commonly found engines on 940s were the naturally aspirated B230FB with 131 PS (96 kW) (all markets but US), B230FD with 115 PS (85 kW) (mainly for the US market), the turbocharged B230FK and FT, and the D24TIC diesel engine with 116 PS (85 kW). The share of sales for the turbodiesel were much lower for the 900-series than in earlier years.
Engines were fitted with either a 5-speed (M47) or 4-speed+overdrive (M46) manual gearbox or an automatic transmission, either Aisin-Warner AW70/71/72 (3-speed+overdrive) or ZF 4HP22 (4-speed) for some B230FB (or E) and diesel engines. In 1995, the manual gearbox was replaced with a full 5-speed (M90), and the ZF was abandoned for gasoline engines and fitted only on diesels.
The SE emblem denoted very different trim and engine levels in different countries. In Sweden, the 940 SE was an ordinary non-turbo 940 with some optional extras as standard, most notably painted mirrors and bumpers. In the UK it was a high trim level available with all engines (from 2.0 to 2.3 turbo). In Australia, the 940 SE was a high trim level with only the 2.3 Turbo B230FT with some extras as standard and featured, rather unusually, full painted bumpers. In Thailand the 940 SE was a Turbo (LPT) model with leather seats, ABS brakes and SRS Airbag. In the US, the 940 SE utilised the body from the 960 (different dashboard, firewall, hood, recessed windscreen wipers etc) with the four-cylinder B230FT engine, the 940 SE badge presumably chosen by Volvo in order to maintain the link between name and number of cylinders.
From MY 1993 on, in Italy all 940 estates were badged "Polar" (engine B200F) or "Super Polar" (engine B200FT). Towards the end of the model cycle, certain countries (as Sweden, Germany and Switzerland) received a well equipped, limited series badged "Classic". Production of the 940 series extended from 1990 to 1998 with a total of 246,704 units of sedan and 231,677 units of estate. The Volvo 940 is among the last in the long-running line of rear-wheel drive cars from Volvo.
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Common 1996 Volvo 900 problems
The Volvo 960, produced in the mid-1990s, is known for its reliability and robustness, but like any other vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on owner complaints:
- Electrical Gremlins: Electrical problems are not uncommon in the Volvo 960. These can range from minor issues, such as malfunctioning windows, to more significant problems that may require a tow truck. It is essential to thoroughly inspect the electrical system and ensure that all components are functioning correctly before purchasing a 960.
- Upper Engine Mount Failure: The upper engine mount, which supports the engine and helps absorb vibrations, can fail in some Volvo 960s. This issue can lead to excessive engine movement, noise, and vibration, particularly during acceleration and deceleration.
- Anti Sway Bar End Link Failure: The anti-sway bar end links, which help maintain stability during cornering, can fail in the Volvo 960. This failure can result in a clunking or knocking noise from the suspension, particularly during turns.
- Interior Tailgate Panel Breaking Away: A common problem with many Volvo wagon models, including the 960, is the interior tailgate panel separating from the tailgate. This issue can interfere with the function of the tailgate lock/latch and may require replacement of the panel.
- Hardened Oil Cap Seal: The large rubber washer under the oil filler cap, which provides a leak-proof seal, can harden and crack over time. This can lead to oil leaks and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Plastic Gear Failure in Odometer: The small plastic gear that drives the odometer and trip meter functions can crack and fail, resulting in intermittent or complete loss of odometer/trip meter function. This issue can be expensive to repair, as Volvo does not sell the gear or speedometer as separate parts.
- Fuel Door Hinge Failure: The plastic gas cap door hinge can fail, causing the gas door to hang from the side of the vehicle. This issue not only affects the vehicle's appearance but can also lead to paint damage if not addressed promptly.
- Shift Interlock Failure: The shift interlock, which prevents the driver from shifting the car from "PARK" into "DRIVE" unless the driver is applying the brakes, can fail. This failure can result in the car being unable to be driven unless the driver knows about the emergency override button.
- ABS Control Module Issues: Some Volvo 960s can experience problems with the ABS control module, which can cause the ABS warning lamp to illuminate. The most common cause is related to an internal failure of the module that causes it to erroneously report an error for a faulty right rear wheel sensor.
While these issues may seem daunting, it is essential to remember that the Volvo 960 is generally considered a reliable vehicle. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these problems, and addressing them promptly when they do occur can help ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
How long will a Volvo 940 last?
Many 940s get 300k-500k miles without an engine overhaul. If you like the practicality & safety of Volvo rear wheel drive cars then do consider a nice 1994-1995 940. If you need to carry loads get a wagon. If you need to tow then get a turbo.
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.
What is high mileage for Volvo?
Your car must have done over 150,000 miles to qualify.
Do Volvo engines last long?
So long as regular maintenance schedules are followed, a Volvo vehicle will on average last for 20 years. can also vary depending on the make and year of your Volvo. That being said, with the proper care the average lifespan of a Volvo is typically 20 years with over 200,000 miles.
How durable are Volvo engines?
Volvos maintain average reliability, scoring high marks based on the wealth of standard safety features but losing points to the high depreciation rate typical of a luxury brand.
How long will a Volvo 940 last?
Many 940s get 300k-500k miles without an engine overhaul. If you like the practicality & safety of Volvo rear wheel drive cars then do consider a nice 1994-1995 940. If you need to carry loads get a wagon. If you need to tow then get a turbo.
Which Volvo is most reliable?
The Volvo model that is the most reliable and ranks the highest in its vehicle category is the Volvo S60, which ranks 4 out of 36 Most Reliable Luxury Small Cars. Following the S60 is the Volvo S60 (Plug-in Hybrid) and the Volvo XC90.
Does Volvo have high maintenance?
Are Volvos Expensive to Service? While the Volvo brand is listed higher in cost on a list created by Your Mechanic Inc., Volvos are more affordable to maintain than other luxury brands. Over a ten-year period of ownership, Volvo models cost an average of $100 more to maintain than Audi models.
1996 Volvo 900 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo 900 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Equipment problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Volvo 900 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1996 Volvo 900 complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Volvo 900.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-10
- VIN: YV1KS9606T1
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: OUT OF WARRANTY--SHOULD A/C FAIL AT 30000 MILES ?*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-06
- VIN: YS3DD75D5T7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CLUTCH BUSHING FAILED.
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