1993 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 1993 Volvo 960 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1993 Volvo 960, several common problems have been identified:
- Noisy Valve Clatter: Some owners have experienced noisy valve clatter, particularly on hot days while driving slowly in stop-and-go traffic. This issue can be intermittent and is more prevalent in older models. Driving habits, such as not revving the engine to higher RPMs, may contribute to this problem. The noise can be reduced by driving the car in sport mode and occasionally revving the engine between 4,000 and 5,000 RPMs.
- Electrical Problems: Neglected examples of the 1993 Volvo 960 may suffer from electrical issues. These problems can be significant if not addressed promptly. Keeping on top of maintenance and promptly addressing any electrical issues can help prevent more severe problems in the future.
- Timing Belt and Overheating Concerns: Like many older vehicles, the 1993 Volvo 960 is susceptible to timing belt issues and overheating. Regular maintenance, including timely replacement of the timing belt, is crucial to prevent these problems. Overheating issues can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise with the 1993 Volvo 960. By addressing these issues proactively, owners can ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicles.
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.
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.
How many miles do Volvo 940 last?
That being said, Volvo Cars is among the top brands when it comes to longevity. Among the factors mentioned above, regular maintenance and driving style can make a huge difference. Overall, expect to see your Volvo vehicle last for over 200,000 miles if you give it proper care each year.
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 MSRP for a 1993 Volvo 960?
Used 1993 Volvo 960 Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan 4D | $36,070 | $2,087 |
| Wagon 4D | $37,070 | $2,325 |
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.
What is the top speed of the 1995 Volvo 960?
VOLVO 960 3.0L 4AT RWD (204 HP)
| PERFORMANCE SPECS | |
|---|---|
| Top Speed: | 130.5 mph (210 km/h) |
| Acceleration 0-62 Mph (0-100 kph): | 9.1 s |
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.
1993 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:
- Suspension problems
- Tires problems
- Steering problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Volvo 960 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1993 Volvo 960 complaints
The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Volvo 960.
SUSPENSION,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-10
- 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.
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-21
- VIN: YV1KW9505P0
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT: CONTACT OWNS A 1993 VOLVO STATION WAGON 960. WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY HEARD A LOUD NOISE, MOST OF THE LIGHTS ON DASHBOARD LIT UP. VEHICLE WAS IN TRAFFIC AND THE TEMPERATURE HAND DID NOT RISE. THE CONTACT CONTINUED TO DRIVE HOME. THE THERMOSTAT BROKE. THIS CAUSED THE TEMPERATURE HAND NOT TO RISE. THE NEXT DAY WENT OUT TO CHECK UNDER HOOD AND BASICALLY FOUND THE SERPENTINE BELT OFF TRACK. THE CONTACT PUT THE SERPENTINE BELT BACK ON THE VEHICLE, THEN SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF, AND FOUND THAT THE SPINNING BELT HAD IDLER PULLEY, BELT PULLEY, AND BELT TENSIONER. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO A REPAIR SHOP. THE PARTS WERE ORDERED AND THEN THE VEHICLE WAS FIXED.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-09
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT FAILED TO RETRACT TO NORMAL ITS POSITION WHICH MADE THE SEAT BELT LOOSE. *JB
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-02
- Crash: 1
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE TRAVELING AT 40 MPH, CONSUMER LOSS CONTROL OF VEHICLE AND HIT A CURB AND A TREE. CONSUMER STATES THAT SEATBELTS FAILED TO HOLD PASSENGER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *MR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-01
- VIN: N/A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED WHILE PARKED IN DRIVEWAY. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-04-11
- VIN: YV1KS9517P0
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CONSUMER SMELLED GASOLINE COMING FROM UNDER FUEL INJECTION RACK. CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC. MECHANIC LIFTED UP THE HOOD, AND NOTICED FUEL INJECTION WAS LEAKING ALL OVER THE ENGINE GASKET. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YZ1KW9505P0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CONSUMER STOPPED AT A LIGHT AND THE CONSUMER'S FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED, CAUSING THE CONSUMER TO HAVE AN ACCIDENT. *AK
Negative 1993 Volvo 960 car reviews
Positive 1993 Volvo 960 car reviews
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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.
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A great all-around car! Fun, with plenty of horsepower and comfortable. One of the best Volvos ever built.
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The car has been very stable and solid, and has handled well in snow and bad weather. However, my wife was driving the car one time and aquaplaned into a tree, resulting in light damage, but nothing serious. I have put in a mix of one tank of premium to two tanks of regular gas, and it has run well. I have the larger motor and pull a trailer behind it with no problem, so I would highly recommend it as a good workhorse of a family vehicle. I find that changing the timing belt after every 40K miles is excessive, but that is the only negative thing about it.
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Your family has had an amazing 6 1/2 years with the 1993 Volvo 960 wagon! It's been a reliable, comfortable, and spacious vehicle that has made packing for vacations a breeze. The only downside is the gas mileage, which is around 15/21, but that's understandable given the powerful engine. It's sad to see it go, but it's time to trade it in for a more spacious minivan. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
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This is a great car! You won't believe it, but I bought it at almost 60k and have put another 100k miles on it. And guess what? It still rides like a new car!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1993 Volvo 960 problems:
Looking to buy a 960. Common issues? - Volvo Forums - Volvo ...
Jan 6, 2012 ... The most common problems I seen were: 1. Power seat travel. Simple cable adjustment. 2. Coil pack failures. 3. Ignition switch failures. $59 ...
How reliable are the 960's? | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance ...
May 29, 2004 ... THe 960 has more problems than the 940-940T. ... 1993 Volvo 960 $4,995 167,253 Burdumy Volvo Wagon Dk Grey Met 1,391 mi. ... 960/V70 audio issues.
Volvo 960 Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
Top Volvo 960 Problems · Worn Sway Bar Bushings Causing Knocking From Front End · "No Start" and Check Engine Light Due to Gear Position Sensor Failure · Vibration ...
Who likes the 960
Dec 27, 2018 ... Over the 20 years I've been driving Volvo's I've been through 240's, 740's, 780, and a 940. And an XC and an 850. To many ongoing problems with ...
1997 Volvo 960 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Top 1997 Volvo 960 Problems · Worn Sway Bar Bushings Causing Knocking From Front End · "No Start" and Check Engine Light Due to Gear Position Sensor Failure.
Other years of Volvo 960
Are you having problems with your 1993 Volvo 960?
Bernhard Osinski 2024-04-28
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.