Volvo 960 problems

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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.

photo of Volvo 960 car production

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Volvo 960 model years

volvo 960 1997 photo
960 1997
Volvo

27

0

14

3.9
  • 5
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  • 1
volvo 960 1996 photo
960 1996
Volvo

72

0

12

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo 960 1995 photo
960 1995
Volvo

80

1

23

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo 960 1994 photo
960 1994
Volvo

21

0

14

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo 960 1993 photo
960 1993
Volvo

7

0

11

4.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo 960 1992 photo
960 1992
Volvo

22

0

4

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo 960 1990 photo
960 1990
Volvo

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
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  • 2
  • 1

Common Volvo 960 problems

Common Problems with Volvo 960 Cars

  • Transmission Fluid Leakage: Transmission fluid leakage is a common issue with the Volvo 960, which can lead to the car stopping on the road. The problem can be caused by a broken piece from the torque converter or a torn away nipple on the oil pump gearings. The solution is to repair the torque converter and replace the oil pump.
  • Potential Overheating Issues: Overheating issues have been reported in some Volvo 960 models. It is essential to keep an eye on the temperature gauge and ensure that the cooling system is functioning correctly. If the car overheats, it is necessary to pull over and let it cool down before continuing the journey.
  • Noisy Valve Clatter: Some Volvo 960 owners have reported intermittent noisy valve clatter, which usually starts on hot days while moving very slowly. This issue can be caused by the car not being driven to its full potential, which can lead to a noisy valve train. To avoid this issue, it is recommended to drive the car regularly and take it to its maximum RPM range.
  • Electrical Gremlins: While not a significant concern, some Volvo 960 owners have reported minor electrical issues, such as window malfunctions. However, there have been no reports of major electrical issues that would require a tow truck. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues.
  • Timing Belt and Water Pump: The timing belt and water pump are essential components that need to be checked regularly, especially in cars with high mileage. Neglecting these components can lead to significant engine damage and the need for expensive repairs.
  • Heater Core Problems: Some Volvo 960 owners have reported issues with the heater core, which can be a significant problem if not addressed promptly. If a car needs a heater core replacement, it is essential to consider the cost and potential downtime associated with this repair.

In conclusion, while the Volvo 960 is a reliable car, it is essential to be aware of these common issues and address them promptly to ensure the car's longevity and reliability. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these issues and ensure that the car remains a reliable daily driver.

Volvo 960

What is the most common problem with Volvos?

Troubleshooting Cooling Fan Issues:

Engine overheating remains one of the most common problems with Volvo cars. But as mentioned previously, this doesn't have to be a costly repair. Typically this comes down to preventative maintenance.

What year was the Volvo 960 made?

Autumn 1990 saw the launch of the Volvo 960, in time for the 1991 model year. The new Volvo 960 succeeded the outgoing Volvo 760, which had been on the market since 1982.

Are Volvos cheap to fix?

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A Volvo car might be more expensive to maintain than a non-luxury vehicle. Yet compared to other luxury brands, Volvo service and maintenance costs are on the lower end of the spectrum.

Do Volvos have a lot of maintenance issues?

Maintenance also plays a significant role in ensuring a vehicle's longevity. In the case of Volvo, there are a few common problems that require attention, including cooling fan issues, complicated transmission, fuse box problems, power steering leaks, and fuel leaks.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Volvo 960 years

We have researched Volvo problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volvo 960 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volvo 960 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volvo 960 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Volvo 960 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Volvo 960 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Volvo 960 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Volvo 960 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 960 model years

A total of 29 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 960 model years

There were a total of 12 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 960 model years

There were a total of 24 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 230 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volvo 960 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volvo 960 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Volvo 960 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2015-06-17
  • Date Complaint: 2015-07-16
  • VIN: YV1KS9604T1
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 VOLVO 960. THE CONTACT STATED THAT FUEL FUMES EMITTED INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT FUEL WAS LEAKING FROM THE FUEL TANK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE LEAK WAS FROM THE FUEL RAIL AND THE FUEL RAIL NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE AS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 73,000. UPDATED 09/10/15*LJ UPDATED 11/27/2017*CN
Volvo 960 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2012-11-15
  • Date Complaint: 2012-11-19
  • VIN: YV1KW9602T1
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: RAW GASOLINE LEAKING FROM MANUFACTURE DEFECTIVE FUEL RAIL. MANUFACTURE MACHINED SEALED TAPET/FLANGED ALUMINUM SEAL ON FUEL RAIL LEAKING RAW GASOLINE UNDER HIGH PRESSURE IN ENGINE BAY. PROBLEM ONLY OCCURS DURING ENGINE OPERATION. RAW GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE. FUEL RAIL DELIVER SYSTEM PART OF EMISSIONS SYSTEM. OCCUPANTS MAY OR NOT NOTICE GASOLINE SMELL (NOXIOUS FUMES) DURING OPERATION INSIDE CABIN. MANUFACTURER RECALL ADVISED. *TR
Volvo 960 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2012-10-08
  • Date Complaint: 2012-10-08
  • VIN: YV1KW9606T1
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: RAW GASOLINE LEAKING FROM MANUFACTURE DEFECTIVE FUEL RAIL. MANUFACTURE MACHINED SEALED TAPET/FLANGED ALUMINUM SEAL ON FUEL RAIL LEAKING RAW GASOLINE UNDER HIGH PRESSURE IN ENGINE BAY. PROBLEM ONLY OCCURS DURING ENGINE OPERATION. RAW GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE. FUEL RAIL DELIVER SYSTEM PART OF EMISSIONS SYSTEM. OCCUPANTS MAY OR NOT NOTICE GASOLINE SMELL (NOXIOUS FUMES) DURING OPERATION INSIDE CABIN. MANUFACTURER RECALL ADVISED. *TR
Volvo 960 1997
  • Date Of Incident: 2012-01-28
  • Date Complaint: 2012-01-28
  • VIN: YV1KS960XV1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: SMELLED FUEL IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT,OPENED HOOD AND FOUND A LEAKING FUEL INJECTION SUPPLY RAIL. LEAK STEMS FROM THE END CAP USED ON FUEL RAIL TOWARDS THE FRONT OF THE ENGINE NEAR THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING AND PROCEEDS TO DRIP VIGOROUSLY DOWN TOWARDS THE INTAKE MANIFOLD BEFORE EVAPORATING AND DRIPPING DOWN ONTO LOWER PART OF THE ENGINE AND FINALLY THE GROUND. I HAVE FOUND SEVERAL COMMENTS IN THE INTERNET FORUMS RELATED TO THIS POSSIBLE DEFECT IN THE MANUFACTURING OF THIS PART STATING THAT THE LEAK IS LOCATED IN THE END CAP OF THE FUEL RAIL, AND VOLVO HAS A RE ENGINEERED FUEL RAIL THAT ELIMINATES THE LEAKING END CAP AND IS CURRENTLY OFFERING THIS RE ENGINEERED PART AS A REPLACEMENT AT A NORMAL RETAIL LABOR AND PARTS RATE. SINCE MODERN VEHICLES ARE DESIGNED TO OPERATE BEYOND THE TRADITIONAL MILEAGE OF 100K , THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS NOT EXPECTING TO HAVE SUCH A SAFETY HAZARD PRESENT ITSELF BY A FAILING FUEL RAIL END CAP, IN ADDITION THE VOLVO OWNERS MANUAL DOES NOT RECOMMEND ANY MAINTENANCE OF THE FUEL RAIL AT ANY SPECIFIC MILEAGE THUS MISLEADING THE PUBLIC BY THE OMISSION THAT SUCH A PART SHOULD BE REPLACED BEFORE FAILURE OCCURS. IN ADDITION VOLVO HAS RE ENGINEERED THE PART AND IS CURRENTLY PROFITING FROM THE SAFETY HAZARD THAT THIS FUEL RAIL HAS CREATED. VOLVO HAS IN THE PAST AND CURRENTLY ADVERTISED ITSELF AS RELIABLE AND SAFE, THUS CREATING A CERTAIN EXPECTATION OF HIGH SAFETY STANDARDS AND HIGH SAFETY RATINGS, AND VOLVO SHOULD (IN KEEPING WITH IT'S PUBLIC IMAGE) AT IT'S OWN EXPENSE REMEDY THIS PROBLEM BY CONDUCTING A VEHICLE SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN SUCH AS NISSAN MOTOR CO. HAS DONE IN THE PAST(NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 95I006000) TO PREVENT ANY POSSIBLE INJURIES THAT MAY RESULT FROM LEAKING FUEL SYSTEMS THAT HAVE NOT BEEN ALTERED OR MODIFIED BY CURRENT OR PREVIOUS OWNERS AND REIMBURSE THOSE THAT HAVE ALREADY REPLACED THE LEAKING FUEL RAILS AT THEIR OWN EXPENSE. *TR
Volvo 960 1997
  • Date Of Incident: 2011-10-15
  • Date Complaint: 2011-11-30
  • VIN: YV1KS9607V1
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: THE LEAKING FUEL RAIL SPURTS GASOLINE ONTO THE HOT AUTOMOBILE ENGINE, CAUSING GASOLINE FUMES IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT AND IS POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS. THERE IS RISK OF FIRE DUE TO THIS HAZARD. VOLVO DEALERS ARE AWARE THAT THIS PROBLEM EXISTS. I HAVE CONTACTED VOLVO NA CUSTOMER CARE BUT THEY HAVE NOT PROVIDED AN ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE. THIS COMPLAINT IS AN ADDENDUM TO A PREVIOUS COMPLAINT BY ANOTHER VOLVO CAR OWNER. PLEASE SEE NHTSA REFERENCE # 10378366. *KB
Volvo 960 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2011-05-30
  • Date Complaint: 2011-06-13
  • VIN: YV1KS9617S1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 VOLVO 960. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE HAD AN EXTREMELY STRONG GASOLINE FUEL ODOR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 17,289. UPDATED 07/21/11 *BF UPDATED 07/28/11
Volvo 960 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2010-06-03
  • Date Complaint: 2011-01-23
  • VIN: YV1KS9602T1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: LEAKING FUEL RAIL - OUR 1996 VOLVO 960, WHICH WAS BOUGHT NEW AND SERVICED REGULARLY BY VOLVO MECHANICS, DEVELOPED A BAD FUEL ODOR INSIDE THE CABIN, AND, WHEN I OPENED THE HOOD, IT WAS APPARENT THAT IT HAD A SERIOUS GASOLINE LEAK, WHICH WAS MODE WORSE WHEN THE ENGINE WAS HOT. I TRIED TO FIND THE LEAK, BUT COULDN'T FIND ANY FUEL LINES LEAKING. WE TOOK IT TO OUR LOCAL VOLVO MECHANIC, AND HE SAID IT WAS THE FUEL RAIL, AND SAID THAT IT WAS QUITE COMMON ON THAT MODEL. I ASKED HIM IF IT WAS DANGEROUS, AND HE LOOKED AT ME LIKE I WAS A COMPLETE DUMMY! WE HAD THE FUEL RAIL REPLACED, AT GREAT EXPENSE, OF COURSE, BUT I COULDN'T HAVE MY FAMILY AT RISK DAILY IN THE CAR. THERE APPEARS NOT TO BE A RECALL, BUT I AM HAVING ONE OF THE LOCAL PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS LOOK INTO THE SITUATION. SURELY THERE IS A BULLETIN OUT ON THIS DANGEROUS SITUATION! *LN
Volvo 960 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2005-09-17
  • Date Complaint: 2010-03-11
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: YV1KS9617S1
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 VOLVO 960. WHILE PULLING INTO HER DRIVEWAY THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO HER GARAGE DOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALERSHIP AND THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR THE FAILURE DESCRIBED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE UNDER 150,000.
Volvo 960 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2009-08-21
  • Date Complaint: 2009-08-24
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: I LIVE IN GA AND LAST FRIDAY I WAS COMING HOME FROM WORK IN THE RAIN, I HIT A BIG PUDDLE AND MY CAR STALLED OUT THEN CAME BACK ON AFTER I CLEARED THE PUDDLE, I CHECKED UNDERNEATH WHEN I GOT HOME AND THERE WAS NOTHING LOOSE THAT I COULD SEE. THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME THIS HAS EVER HAPPENED TO ME. MY CAR IS A 1996 VOLVO 960 WITH 177,000 MILES ON IT, IT RUNS GOOD BUT DOES HAVE OTHER ELECTRICAL ISSUES TOO. *TR
Volvo 960 1993
  • Date Of Incident: 2008-10-10
  • Date Complaint: 2009-01-26
  • Components: SUSPENSION,TIRES
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1993 VOLVO 960. THE VEHICLE HAS MICHELIN XPS TRACTION TIRES. WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN, THE SUSPENSION FELT AS IF IT SNAPPED. THE CONTACT FELT A SCISSORING MOTION IN THE STEERING WHEEL. HE UTILIZED THE SPARE TIRE, WHICH CORRECTED THE FAILURE. HE SUSPECTED THAT THE TIRE OR THE BELT WAS FAULTY. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION, HE FOUND THAT THE TIRE WAS DEFECTIVE. THE CONTACT BELIEVES THAT THE FAILURE WAS NOT LIMITED TO THE TIRE ITSELF BECAUSE HE FELT THAT THERE WAS MORE OF A SUSPENSION FAILURE. THE VIN AND TIRE SIZE WERE UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 152,000.
Volvo 960 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2008-01-10
  • Date Complaint: 2008-06-26
  • VIN: YV1KS9618S1
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: MY CAR IS A 1995 960 MODEL VOLVO, ABOUT 6 MONTHS AGO THE LEATHER STARTED PULLING AWAY FROM THE WINDOWS ON ALL FOUR DOORS. IT LOOKS TERRIBLE AND I WOULD LIKE TO GET IT FIX , BUT CANNOT FIND ANYONE THAT IS WILLING TO FIX IT. HELP ME PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THANKS *TR
Volvo 960 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2007-12-14
  • Date Complaint: 2007-12-14
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: IN EARLY MORNING COLD STARTUPS, THERE ARE GAS FUMES THAT ARE PRESENT. THEY EVENTUALLY DISAPPEAR AFTER ABOUT 30 MINUTES OF DRIVING. I KNOW THERE MUST BE A FUEL LEAK ON THIS VEHICLE DUE TO THE STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE. *TR
Volvo 960 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2007-10-25
  • Date Complaint: 2007-10-25
  • VIN: YV1KS9618S1
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: SRS LIGHT IS ON AND DOESN'T TURN OFF. IT IS PART OF A RECALL. *TR UPDATED 01-14-08. *KB
Volvo 960 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2006-01-04
  • Date Complaint: 2007-02-09
  • VIN: YV1KS9604T1
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: AT 110K I NOTICED COOLANT LEVEL DROPPING FASTER THAN USUAL, AND COOLANT ON GARAGE FLOOR. DEALER REMOVED SIDE ENGINE COVER AND SHOWED ME A LINE OF PINHOLE LEAKS IN THE ALUMINUM BLOCK. TECHNICIAN SAID THIS WAS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT HE HAD SEEN BEFORE, AND THAT THE ENGINE WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. VOLVO OFFERED NO HELP, "OUT OF WARRANTY." I PURCHASED A USED 1998 960 ENGINE FOR $1900 AND DEALER INSTALLED FOR $1800, INCLUDING INCIDENTAL PARTS. SOON THEREAFTER, RADIATOR BLEW AND RUINED CYLINDER HEAD. THE 1 YEAR USED ENGINE WARRANTY COVERED CYLINDER HEAD AND I PAID ABOUT $800 FOR NEW RADIATOR. TOTAL OUTLAY $4500! I FOLDED MY CARDS AND GOT $3500 FOR VOLVO TOWARD A NEW TOYOTA COROLLA. NO MORE VOLVOS FOR ME! *NM
Volvo 960 1997
  • Date Of Incident: 2006-11-01
  • Date Complaint: 2007-01-30
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: CUSTOMER 1997 VOLVO 960 ENGINE FAILED DUE TO TIMING BELT PULLEY FAILURE. **CC THE ENTIRE ENGINE HAD TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE A HEAD BOLT HAD SEIZED IN THE ENGINE BLOCK. *JB

Recalls Volvo 960

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Volvo 960.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Volvo 960 1995
  • Report Received Date: 1994-11-01
  • Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF NA, INC.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
  • Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG MODULE MAY NOT PROPERLY DEPLOY.
  • Consequence: THIS WOULD RESULT IN REDUCED ACCIDENT/INJURY PROTECTION FOR THE DRIVER IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG MODULE.

Latest negative Volvo 960 car reviews

  1. Cordelia Reichert 2024-11-21

    Vehicle year: 1995

    I really wanted to like this car, as its predecessor (a Volvo 240 wagon) was great. However, I experienced some issues with it, such as the right rear taillight lens falling off (which required replacing the entire assembly), the right front corner lamp lens falling off (also requiring a full assembly replacement), the neutral safety switch needing to be replaced twice, the right rear passenger window stopping working, ball joints needing to be replaced, a complete head rebuild due to possible burned valves, the speed sensor needing to be replaced, the camshaft position sensor needing to be replaced, the catalytic converter failing, the rear main seal leaking, the radio not working properly, and the A/C compressor needing to be replaced. Despite these issues, I purchased the car at Volvo of the Triad in NC and hope to have a better experience in the future.

  2. Abe Wiegand 2024-10-29

    Vehicle year: 1995

    The recommended mileage to change the camshaft belt is 50,000 miles, but unfortunately, it broke unexpectedly on my car causing significant damage to the engine. The design of the rubber band used to drive the water pump and camshafts has been a concern for some drivers, as it is not as durable as a steel chain. It is disappointing that such a reputable car brand like Volvo has this issue. I would advise against purchasing this car. Thank you for considering my experience.

  3. Roel Haley 2024-10-25

    Vehicle year: 1995

    According to Consumer Reports, this car received low marks, but later models such as the S80 greatly improved. Unfortunately, I have experienced some terrible problems with this particular model, including constant issues with the cooling system, brake repairs, and sunroof leakage. It's worth noting that these were identified as major trouble spots by Consumer Reports. Additionally, the interior is poorly built, with the power seat controls located on a flimsy piece of plastic on the side of the front seats. I accidentally kicked it once and it broke right off.

  4. Bradley Gaylord 2024-10-14

    Vehicle year: 1992

    Volvo cars may not be the best fit for everyone, but it's important to note that every car brand has its own set of issues. In this particular case, the car experienced some mechanical and electrical problems that were addressed. It's important to note that these issues are not necessarily indicative of the overall quality of the brand. It's always recommended to do thorough research and consult with experts before making a purchase decision.

  5. Don Moen 2024-10-10

    Vehicle year: 1997

    I decided to trade in my car after experiencing a lot of issues with its reliability. Unfortunately, the sunroof, A/C, keyless entry, power steering fluid, and brake pads all needed repairs at different times. Additionally, there were some minor issues such as cup holders and door hinges breaking off. Despite these issues, I only drove the car for 62k miles. I have decided not to purchase another Volvo in the future.

Latest positive Volvo 960 car reviews

  1. Taylor Schulist 2024-11-28

    Vehicle year: 1995

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with the car I got for my college-aged child. Safety and stability were my top priorities, and I was also looking for a car that we could both agree on. I drove the car for six months before sending it to my child, and I have to say, I really enjoyed the way it handled. The instrumentation and location of controls were very user-friendly. I was also pleasantly surprised by the fuel economy - it averaged 24mpg on my daily commute to work, and up to 29mpg on longer trips. Overall, I'm very impressed with this car!

  2. Bennie Kuhic 2024-11-24

    Vehicle year: 1996

    The handle on this car is amazing, especially if you add performance struts and Bilstines. With these upgrades, this car can keep up with any other car, or nearly so, even those that are often marketed with bragging rights about better performance. Overall, this car performs very well and safety is also a top priority for the manufacturer. They have built this car with safety as one of the most valued features to offer the buyer.

  3. Curt Prohaska 2024-11-21

    Vehicle year: 1993

    I'm so glad I bought my '93 960 in January of 2002. The previous owner took great care of it and kept records of everything, even the cost of replacing the wiper blades! It's been regularly serviced by an excellent certified mechanic, and the service prices have been comparable to those of other brands I've owned, like Toyota, Ford, and Nissan. I've found that going to a certified mechanic is the key, rather than relying on the dealership.

  4. George Skiles 2024-11-21

    Vehicle year: 1996

    I would definitely buy this car again. I had a sound system installed and the windows tinted. The black on black leather looks great and I absolutely love it!

  5. Branson Sporer 2024-11-10

    Vehicle year: 1996

    This car is very comfortable and reliable. The brakes are excellent, and while the fuel efficiency is not what I expected, it is still better than most American cars. I did encounter a few issues with the 1993 model, such as adjusting the center console and noise isolation, but overall it is a safe and dependable car. In fact, it feels as sturdy as a small war tank!

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