1994 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 1994 Volvo 960 problems
The Volvo 960, produced between 1990 and 1998, is known for its reliability and durability. However, like any other car, it has its share of common problems. This article will focus on the 1994 Volvo 960 and its common issues based on complaints from owners.
1. Engine Starting Difficulties
One of the most common issues reported by 1994 Volvo 960 owners is difficulty starting the engine, especially when cold.
2. Transmission Problems
Transmission issues are another common problem in the 1994 Volvo 960. One specific issue is the sudden draining of transmission fluid, causing the car to stop on the road. This problem can be caused by a broken piece from the torque converter or a torn away nipple on the oil pump gearings.
3. Electrical Gremlins
Electrical issues are a concern for some 1994 Volvo 960 owners. While window malfunctions may not be a significant issue, more severe electrical problems can lead to a tow truck call. Common electrical issues include malfunctioning dashboard lights, faulty sensors, and wiring problems.
4. Overheating and Timing Belt Issues
Overheating and timing belt issues are also common in the 1994 Volvo 960. Regular maintenance, including checking and replacing the timing belt and water pump at recommended intervals, is crucial to prevent these problems. Neglecting these maintenance tasks can lead to engine damage and expensive repairs.
5. Noisy Valve Train
Some 960 owners have reported intermittent noisy valve clatter, particularly on hot days during slow driving. This issue is often associated with the car's valve train and can be more pronounced in neglected or poorly maintained vehicles.
In conclusion, while the 1994 Volvo 960 is generally a reliable and durable car, it is not immune to common problems such as engine starting difficulties, transmission issues, electrical gremlins, overheating, timing belt problems, and noisy valve trains. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent or address these issues, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
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 long will a Volvo 850 last?
Some Volvo 850 owners have said that the 850 is a reliable vehicle that can last up to 300,000 to 400,000 miles as long as you take care of it.
How many Volvo 960s were made?
Between 14 April 1927 and 29 February 2024 Volvo Cars produced 24,132,038 cars.
| MODEL | YEARS | NUMBERS |
|---|---|---|
| 960 | 1990-1996 | 112,710 |
| 960 | 1990-1996 | 41,619 |
| 960 Totals | 1990-1996 | 154,329 |
| 960 | 1991-1992 | 11,956 |
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 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 |
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 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 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 |
1994 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:
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Volvo 960 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1994 Volvo 960 complaints
The NHTSA has received 21 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Volvo 960.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-12
- Fire: 1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING OUR 1994 VOLVO 960 ON AUGUST 12,2006 ON A CONGESTED 4 LANE ROAD. SHE MOVED THE DRIVERS SEAT FORWARD WITH THE ELECTRIC POWERED SWITCH AND NOTICED SMOKE EMERGING FROM THE SEAT. SHE LOOKED MORE CLOSELY AND SAW FLAMES. SHE WAS ABLE TO NAVIGATE ONTO A SIDE STREET AND EXIT THE VEHICLE. MY HUSBAND WHO IS A CERTIFIED BMW/ VOLVO TECHNICIAN, TRACED THE WIRES AND FOUND A SHORT IN THE SEAT HEATER ELEMENT. THE FIRE WAS EXTENSIVE, REQUIRING THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TO EXTINGUISH THE FLAMES WITH FIRE RETARDANT AND WATER. THE SEAT WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED WITHIN 5 MINUTES AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS BURNED. SHE COULD HAVE BEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-22
- VIN: YV1KW9510R1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE CONSUMER DISCOVERED COOLANT LEAKED FROM THE RADIATOR. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-19
- VIN: YV1KW9510R1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED. *NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-19
- VIN: YV1KW9510R1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLES GEARS BECAME STUCK AFTER SHIFTING. *NLM
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-07
- VIN: YV1KS9514R0
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: NO SUMMARY. DT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-01
- VIN: YV1KW9511R0
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING FUEL TANK CRACKED AT THE SEAM AND CAR BEGAN LEAKING FUEL.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-29
- VIN: YV1KW9503R0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE YOKOHAMA TIRE ON THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION WHILE THE CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING, RESULTING IN MAJOR DAMAGE TO THE UNDER CARRIAGE OF THE VEHICLE, THE CONSUMER IS REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE COST OF THE TIRE AND THE DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. TIRE SIZE P195/65R15. *YH
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-29
- VIN: YV1KW9503R0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE YOKOHAMA TIRE ON THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION WHILE THE CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING, RESULTING IN MAJOR DAMAGE TO THE UNDER CARRIAGE OF THE VEHICLE, THE CONSUMER IS REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE COST OF THE TIRE AND THE DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. TIRE SIZE P195/65R15. *YH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YV1KS9501R1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: AUGUST 1995 CAR WAS RETURNED TO DEALER AS BRAKES WERE NOISY AND BRAKE PEDAL WAS MUSHY. FRONT AND REAR BRAKE PADS WERE REPLACED. VEHICLE MILEAGE - 14349. SEPTEMBER, 1996 THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS AGAIN TRAVELING TOO FAR DOWN ACCOMPANIED BY VIBRATION. REAR BRAKE ROTORS AND PADS WERE REPLACED. MILEAGE - 34875. DECEMBER 1996 WHEN ATTEMPTING TO STOP AT STOPLIGHT IN 45 MPH ZONE ON DRY PAVEMENT THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR ACCOMPANIED BY LOUD GRINDING AND VIBRATION. CAR TRAVELED THROUGH LIGHT. DEALER COULD NOT DUPLICATE, NO REPAIRS PERFORMED. MILEAGE - 39021. MARCH 1997 BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR ACCOMPANIED BY LOUD GRINDING NOISE AND VIBRATION. CAR WENT THROUGH STOPLIGHT. DEALER REPLACED MASTER CYLINDER, BRAKE CALIPER, BRAKE FLUID, BLED THE BRAKE LINES. MILEAGE - 40283. MARCH 1998 BRAKES LOUD, MUSHY WITH VIBRATION AND SHUDDER. DEALER REPLACED REAR DISCS AND PADS. MILEAGE - 47557. JULY 1998 BRAKES VIBRATING. DEALER COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. MILEAGE - 49297. MAY 1999 BRAKES GRINDING AND VIBRATING. DEALER FOUND NO PROBLEMS, RECOMMENDED REPLACING REAR BRAKE ROTORS. MILEAGE - 57711. JULY 6, 1999 DEALER REPLACED REAR ROTORS AND PADS AS RECOMMENDED. JULY 20, 1999 BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO FLOOR ACCOMPANIED BY LOUD GRINDING AND VIBRATION. CAR TRAVELED THROUGH STOP SIGN IN 25 MPH ZONE. DEALER CLEANED FRONT WHEEL SENSORS. COULD NOT DUPLICATE PROBLEM. MILEAGE - 59675. *AK
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WARNING LIGHT IS ON AND STAYS ON UNLESS THE BRAKE RELEASE BUTTON IS HELD DOWN. DEALER HAS REPLACED IT TWICE, AND PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. *AK
POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-26
- VIN: FILL IN
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN TRYING TO USE THE HORN, IT FAILED TO WORK PROPERLY. ALSO, TRANSMISSION HAD DEVELOPED A CRACK, AND THE OIL LINE TO TRANSMISSION HAD A HOLE IN IT. THIS CAUSED THE OIL TO LEAK. FINALLY, BRAKE LIGHTS WENT OUT. TOOK TO DEALER TO HAVE TRANSMISSION & HORN REPAIRED. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-23
- VIN: YV1KS9509RO
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FALSE DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAG DURING MINOR LOW SPEED COLLISION WHICH CAUSED NO DAMAGE TO EXTERIOR OF VEHICLE, HOWEVER INTERIOR OF VEHICLE DAMAGED BADLY BY VIOLENT DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAG.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-13
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1KS9501R0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS STOPPED AT A STOP LIGHT, AIR BAGS DEPLOYED, CAR ROLLED INTO ANOTHER CAR. DEALER CONTACTED, AND IS IN THE PROCESS OF INVESTIGATING PROBLEM. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-01-31
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YV1JW8311R1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRIC SHORT CAUSED UNDER HOOD ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE, WHILE DRIVING SAW SMOKE, VEHICLE STALLED AND THEN CAUGHT ON FIRE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YV1KS9507R0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WAS DRIVING AND APPLIED THE BRAKES AND THEY LOCKED UP, THERE WERE NO BRAKES . *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-08
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: YV1KS9511R0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FALSE DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVERS AIR BAG, RESULTING IN WINDSHIELD BREAKING/INJURY. (ATTORNEY FOR CLIENT) *DSH
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-08
- VIN: YV1KS9511R0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: FALSE DEPLOYMENT OF PASSENGERS AIR BAG, RESULTING IN WINDSHIELD BREAKING.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-20
- VIN: YV1KS9517R0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: NO WARNING DEVICE TO ALERT DRIVER THAT DOOR IS AJAR. *SD
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-08-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YZ1KS950XR0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE INVOLVED IN FRONTAL COLLISION, IMPACT 12:00 SPEED 12, PASSENGER'S AIR BAG DEPLOYED, PASSENGER DEPLOYED METAL CASING WITH BAG HITTING WINDSHEILD
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-11
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1KS9519R0
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGES WITHOUT ASSISTANCE, CAUSING SUDDEN ACCELERATION, RESULTING IN LOSS OF CONTROL/ACCIDENT. *SKD
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-07-29
- VIN: YV1KS9515R0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RADIATOR PROBLEMS. *SKD
Negative 1994 Volvo 960 car reviews
Positive 1994 Volvo 960 car reviews
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I've owned several Volvos, and this is the third one my son has ridden in since he was 16. Unfortunately, I had to replace the other two earlier than expected due to some serious incidents. Thankfully, he's been driving this one for about 15k miles without any issues while he's been in college. Although I've been offered $5500 for it with 139k miles, my son is content with it, so for now, we'll just do another oil change, replace the brakes and keep driving safely!
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I absolutely adore my Volvo Wagon! It provides the comfort, reliability, and safety that I need for my family. Not only is it fun to drive, but I feel incredibly secure knowing that I am in a car that is built to last. The car boasts a powerful motor with impressive acceleration and handles extremely well. As the sole owner, I have always taken it to the dealership for maintenance, including replacing the ball joints, brakes, and tires - all normal wear and tear. Living in a snowy climate, I use 4 Nokia snow tires and the winter driving mode to navigate hills and other obstacles. While my gas mileage is around 19-20 mpg, the car runs smoothly on regular unleaded gas.
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Review: Hi there! I just wanted to share my thoughts on this car. In my experience, it seems to effortlessly glide to whatever speed you require without any sudden bursts of acceleration. I also noticed that its performance is amazingly balanced, as it is just as fast from 80-100 as it is from 40-60. It exudes a smooth and graceful feel, which makes it the most comfortable and roadworthy car I have ever owned. I love how it blends luxury and sportiness, truly a great car!
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This is my wife's primary car, and it has been the most reliable vehicle we have ever owned. The front seats are comfortable, and the power is smooth, with safe and precise handling. This is our fourth Volvo, and it is still the best. It's a shame that these RWD sedans are no longer made.
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It sounds like you've had a great experience with your car, although you mentioned needing to replace the AC and some design flaws such as the lack of a drink holder and the inconvenient location of the CD changer in the trunk. Overall, it seems like you've really enjoyed your car!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1994 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. ... 1994 Volvo 960 $4,500 142,000 Jays Volvo Sedan Champange 1,612 mi. ... 960/V70 audio issues. Hi, I' ...
94 960 ---Ignition Problem
Jun 9, 2010 ... Volvo Forum 240, 740, 760, 780, Bertone ... Year and Model: 1994 960: Location: Wagin ... I believe common problem, had similiar prob with 96 850.
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 ... ... problems with th. ... Year and Model: 1994 Volvo 960: Location ... I didn't know that what I'm experiencing was a common issue.
Other years of Volvo 960
Are you having problems with your 1994 Volvo 960?
Kendall Jacobs 2024-06-10
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.
Sherman Hammes 2024-04-11
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.