1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960 problems
The Volvo 960, produced in the 1990s, is known for its smoothness and power, but like any car model, it has its own set of common problems. Here are some of the issues that Volvo 960 owners have reported:
- Transmission Problems: Some Volvo 960 owners have reported issues with shifting or slipping gears, which can be caused by low transmission fluid levels or worn out transmission bands. In some cases, the transmission may fail completely, which can be a costly repair.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical problems are also common in the Volvo 960, with some owners reporting issues with the battery or charging system, as well as malfunctioning sensors or warning lights. Starter or alternator failure can also occur, which can prevent the car from starting or cause the battery to drain quickly.
- Suspension and Steering Problems: Some Volvo 960 owners have reported noise or vibration when driving, which can be caused by worn out shock absorbers or suspension bushings. Steering wheel misalignment or stiffness can also be an issue, as well as suspension system failure or wear.
- Fuel System Problems: The fuel system of the Volvo 960 can also experience issues, with some owners reporting reduced fuel economy or high fuel consumption, fuel leaks or clogs in the system, or fuel pump or injector failure.
- Heater Core Issues: Some Volvo 960 owners have reported problems with the heater core, which can cause the car to overheat and lead to other issues if not addressed promptly.
- Timing Belt and Overheating Issues: These issues can be a major concern for Volvo 960 owners, as they can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
While these issues are not uncommon in any car model, it is important for Volvo 960 owners to be aware of them so they can take the necessary steps to prevent or address them as needed. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep the Volvo 960 running smoothly and reliably for years to come.
What's the difference between Volvo 940 and a 960?
In general terms, 960 trim is a step up from the equivalent 940; leather is standard on 960 GLEs, but you need to go for the top 940 CD for similar luxury The exceptions are the final 940 versions, which were really given a boost.
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.
What was the last year of the Volvo 960?
VOLVO 960 (1990-1997)
Where was the Volvo 960 made?
For North America, the 1992–1994 Volvo 960s were built in Kalmar, Sweden. The very first Volvo 960 for the US-market rolled off the assembly line on August 12, 1991 as a 1992 model. The 1995 to 1998 960s were built in Göteborg, Sweden.
Where was the Volvo 960 made?
For North America, the 1992–1994 Volvo 960s were built in Kalmar, Sweden. The very first Volvo 960 for the US-market rolled off the assembly line on August 12, 1991 as a 1992 model. The 1995 to 1998 960s were built in Göteborg, Sweden.
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.
What is the engine capacity of Volvo 960?
| Volvo 960 3.0i 24v Executive Engine Technical Data | |
|---|---|
| Engine displacement : | 178.3 cu-in / 2922 cm3 |
| Bore x Stroke : | 3.27 x 3.54 inches 83.0 x 90.0 mm |
| Number of valves : | 24 Valves |
| Aspiration : | naturally-aspirated |
What is the 0 60 on a 1995 Volvo 960?
The aluminum engine is rated at 181 horsepower – and every one of those horses is needed to move the 960's 3,461 pounds. Car and Driver magazine tested a 960 and logged a 0-to-60 mph time of 8.6 seconds – a leisurely run when compared with the competition.
1990 Volvo 960 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo 960 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Volvo 960 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1990 Volvo 960 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Volvo 960.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YV1KW9613S1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DOUBLE FAILURE OF SEAT BELTS.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Volvo 960 problems:
How reliable are the 960's? | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance ...
May 29, 2004 ... THe 960 has more problems than the 940-940T. ... 960/V70 audio issues. Hi, I'm a newbie. After 13 ... 940, 960, S90 & V90 (1990-1998) · galaxian Nov ...
1996 Volvo 960 Air Conditioning Problems
Oct 23, 2005 ... One side is black, one side is white. These are known to fail. Very important to note which side points in which direction when installed. You ...
1997 960: Steering issues | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance Forum
May 23, 2009 ... 940, 960, S90 & V90 (1990-1998). JavaScript ... 1997 960: Steering issues ... Ok seem like this is a common problem of our 960, cuz my car does the ...
94 960 ---Ignition Problem
Jun 9, 2010 ... Volvo Forum 240, 740, 760, 780 ... 1990 - 1998 960 1997 - 1998 V90/S90. Search ... I believe common problem, had similiar prob with 96 850.
1990 740 Turbo problems - Volvo Owners Club Forum
Nov 4, 2018 ... ... engine when running, mainly when hot again. The car has been stood for 2 years and done 220,000 miles. Upon reading the common problems with ...
Other years of Volvo 960
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