1997 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 1997 Volvo 960 problems
The Volvo 960, produced in 1997, is known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:
- Electrical gremlins: Electrical problems are a common complaint among Volvo 960 owners. While minor issues like window malfunctions may not be a major concern, more significant electrical problems that could require a tow truck should be taken into consideration. Some owners have reported problems with the wiring harness and bad grounds, which can cause the car to stall and fail to restart.
- Timing belt and overheating issues: The timing belt and overheating problems are also common issues with the Volvo 960. It is essential to keep on top of these issues and ensure that regular maintenance is performed to avoid more significant problems down the line.
- Intermittent noisy valve clatter: Some owners have reported intermittent noisy valve clatter, especially on hot days and during slow traffic. This issue is more common in earlier models but can still occur in 1997 models. Regular driving and maintenance can help prevent this issue.
- Leaking coolant: Coolant leaks are a common problem with the Volvo 960, particularly in low mileage, late model B6304 engines. Failure to change coolant regularly and use the proper coolant can cause porous blocks, leading to leaks. This issue can be prevented by regularly changing the coolant and using the proper coolant.
- Fuel rail leaks: Fuel rail leaks are also a common problem with the Volvo 960. These leaks can cause a strong gas smell right after filling up the car, which can last for about five minutes. This issue can be resolved by replacing the fuel rail, which can be a complex and time-consuming process.
- Tailgate interior panel failure: Nearly all Volvo wagon models from the 1980s to early 2000s have a problem of the interior tailgate panel breaking away from the tailgate, leaving the panel hanging loose from the gate and interfering with the function of the tailgate lock/latch. Replacing the panel from the dealer can cost well over $200, but a repair kit is available for a fraction of the cost.
In summary, the Volvo 960 has several common problems that owners should be aware of, including faulty mass air flow sensors, electrical gremlins, timing belt and overheating issues, intermittent noisy valve clatter, leaking coolant, fuel rail leaks, and tailgate interior panel failure. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent these issues and ensure the longevity 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.
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.
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 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 |
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.
1997 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Volvo 960 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Volvo 960
The NHTSA has received 27 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Volvo 960. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Volvo 960 vehicles.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-15
- 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
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-01
- 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
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-15
- VIN: YV1KW9606V1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT WILL NOT RETRACT OUT OF THE RETRACTOR. THIS C LEAVES THE DRIVER WITHOUT ANY RESTRAINT IF INVOLVED IN A CRASH. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-26
- VIN: YV1KS9609V1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON THEN LOW COOLANT LIGHT. SUDDENLY LOST POWER DUE TO ENGINE FAILURE. IT SEIZED UP DUE TO OVERHEATING. TEMPERATURE GAUGE NEVER REGISTERED HOT. RADIATOR NECK BROKE OFF AT NECK CAUSING LOST OF COOLANT. ENGINE RUINED. DEALER WILL NOT REPLACE CLAIMING THERMOSTAT STUCK EVEN THOUGH THEY COULDN'T PROVE THIS. *JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YV1KS960XV1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE CENTER STEERING WHEEL COVER HAS A STICKY RESIDUE WHEN TOUCHED AND IS DIFFICULT TO WASH OFF. THE CONSUMERS EYES BECOME IRRITATED AND SKIN IS ITCHY. *SCC
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-23
- VIN: YV1LS5649V1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: LEFT FRONT TIRE WENT FLAT DUE TO SEPARATION OF SIDE WALL. OTHER TWO TIRES ARE BEGINNING TO CRACK. SIZE 195/60R15,DOT#FUDACHYX276. *AK THE OTHER TWO TIRES HAD TO BE REPLACED DUE TO THE INSPECTION SHOWING STEEL FROM THE BELTS WERE COMING THROUGH THE SIDE WALLS. THE TIRES ARE MICHELIN MXV4. *JG
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1KS9604V1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION, AND AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. VEHICLE HIT A TREE, AND HAD FRONTAL IMPACT. CONSUMER SUSTAINED INJURIES. CONTACTED DEALER, AND DEALER STATED VEHICLE HAD PREFORMED UP TO STANDARD. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YV1KS9604V1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER HAD AN ACCIDENT DURING RAIN STORM AND AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. HIT TREE WITH FRONTAL IMPACT. CONTACTED VOLVO, AND VOLVO REPLIED THAT VEHICLE PERFORMED THE WAY IT SHOULD HAD. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-14
- VIN: YV1KS9601V1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: VOLVO DEALER, UNDER WARRANTY REPLACED ALL 4 DISC BRAKE ROTORS & PADS DUE TO WARPING OF ROTORS & RESULTING VIBRATION WHEN SLOWING DOWN FROM 65 MPH TO 50 MPH ON HIGHWAY. THIS WORK WAS DONE ON 11/14/00 AT 39,024 MILES ON THE CAR. IT IS NOW 6/29/01 AND THE CAR ONLY HAS 43,500 MILES ON IT, IE. ONLY 4,500 ADDITIONAL MILES ON IT. THIS HAS NOT BEEN A PROBLEM ON OUR OTHER CARS, SO IT SHOULD NOT BE ATTRIBUTED TO DRIVER ERROR OR OTHER DRIVER-RELATED CHARACTERISTICS. IN FACT, WE GET VERY GOOD BRAKE WEAR AND DURABILITY ON OUR OTHERS CARS WITH THE SAME DRIVERS. IN THE APRIL, 2001 ISSUE OF CONSUMER REPORTS MAGAZINE, THIS CAR FOR THE 1997 MODEL YEAR RECEIVED THE WORST AVAILABLE RATING FOR THE BRAKES RELATIVE TO FREQUENCY OF REPAIRS FROM OWNER SURVEYS CONDUCTED BY THE MAGAZINE. I STRONGLY BELIEVE THAT THIS VIBRATION DUE TO DISC ROTOR WARPAGE CAN LEAD TO FURTHER DAMAGE IN THE BRAKING SYSTEM AND ULTIMATELY CAUSE A SAFETY RELATED FAILURE. I WOULD LIKE TO BE CONTACTED TO DISCUSS THIS FURTHER AND TO INQUIRE IF YOU HAVE FOUND THIS TO BE A PROBLEM ON OTHER VOLVO 960'S OF SIMILAR VINTAGE AS CONSUMER REPORTS HAS FOUND AND ALSO AS I HAVE PERSONALLY FOUND TO BE THE CASE. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-10
- VIN: YV1KS9607V1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WITH NO INDICATION OF OVERHEATING THE ENGINE OVERHEATED AND WAS DESTROYED. THE ONLY IDIOT LIGHT TO COME ON WAS THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND THAT WAS AFTER BLACK SMOKE WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE NEVER REGISTERED OUTSIDE OF THE NORMAL RANGE AND NO OTHER WARNING LIGHTS WERE ACTIVATED. THE ENGINE NEEDS TO BE REPLACED ACCORDING TO VOLVO BUT THIS IS NOT COVERED UNDER MY EXTENDED WARRANTY BECAUSE THEY STATE IT DOES NOT MATTER THAT THE GAUGES MALFUNCTIONED AND THEY CAN NOT BE TESTED ANYWAY BECAUSE THE CAR CAN NOT BE STARTED.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-04
- VIN: YV1LS5649V2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-01
- VIN: YV1KS9604V1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED VEHICLE WILL NOT STOP. HAD TO PULL EMERGENCY BRAKE TO STOP VEHICLE. DEALER DID NOT HELP CONSUMER. PLEASE ADD ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE REAR ENDED A TRUCK AT 50MPH, AND NEITHER DRIVER'S SIDE NOR PASSENGER'S SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YV1KS9605V1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: AS SOON THE HAND BRAKE WAS RELEASED THE VEHICLE ACCILERATED FORWARD AT A HIGH SPEED ON ITS OWN AND WAS ONLY STOPPED BY CRASHING INTO WALL. YH
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-01
- VIN: YV1KW96OXV1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE FAILED. *YC
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-03
- VIN: YV1KW96OXV1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SEAT LUMBAR SUPPORT CONTROL FAILED. *YC
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YV1KS9601V1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER SEAT BLOCKS REAR VISION, DUE TO DESIGN HEIGHT. YH
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YV1KS9601V1
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: AIR CONDITIONER DOES NOT WORK ADEQUATELY FOR REAR SEATS. YH
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-22
- VIN: YVIKS9602V1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE CONSUMER HAS BEEN EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM WHILE DRIVING. CONSUMER PREVIOUSLY TAKEN VEHICLE INTO THE REPAIR SHOP FOUR TIMES FOR THE SAME PROBLEM, A LEAK IN THE INJECTION SYSTEM. THE MANUFACTUTER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-01
- VIN: YV1KS9603V1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: A PIECE OF PLASTIC FOIL DROPPED OFF AND FLEW BACK AT 75MPH FROM THE BOTTOM OF VEHICLE WITH NO INDICATION, THE AIR HANDLING SYSTEM THAT SCOOPS THE AIR IS WHERE THE PIECE CAME FROM. DEALER CANNOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-03-19
- Crash: 1
- VIN: VV1KS9604V1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: AFTER PUTTING VEHICLE INTO REVERSE , THE THROTTLE STUCK, CAUSING VEHICLE TO ACCELERATE, RESULTING IN A COLLISION. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YVIKS9602V1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY DURING CRASH.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-08-06
- VIN: YV1KS9604V1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRES BLEW OUT WHEN VEHICLE WENT OVER A POTHOLE/SMALL DITCH IN THE ROAD.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YV1K5960HV1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE SURGES WHILE DRIVING.
Negative 1997 Volvo 960 car reviews
Positive 1997 Volvo 960 car reviews
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I've had this car for three years now, and even though it's 11 years old, it still performs great and has been very reliable. I've only had to replace the brakes and rotors once, which isn't bad for three years. The only downside is the cup holders, which are cheap and don't hold cups very well. It's worth noting that this is the last year that Volvo made their cars, and now Ford builds them. Personally, I wouldn't buy from Ford, but all in all, this is a fantastic car!
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This is the most favorite car that I've owned (Nissan Maxima - 2 of them and an Acura Legend). It has been a super dependable car with a smooth ride. The power is always there when needed, so don't underestimate this car where performance is concerned. It is important to use premium fuel always. I average 20.4 miles per gallon in-town. Regular maintenance by a Volvo specialized mechanic is paramount. I wish they still made these cars.
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I completely agree with the others that this is an all-around great car. The only issue I have noticed is with the cup holder - it seems like Volvo could have done better in that regard. The engine runs very smoothly, which is largely due to it being an inline six. Additionally, the rear drive contributes to better weight distribution and makes tight u-turns a breeze. I have even mixed premium gas with intermediate without any issues. While it's true that the radio reception could be better, I still find it to be a great car overall. After several years, I have noticed that my air conditioning output is getting weaker, but I'm hoping that it just requires a recharge of refrigerant. Lastly, the front window sill coverings are starting to pull away. Despite these minor issues, I am still very pleased with this car overall.
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My family loves Volvos; we currently own four! I have a special attachment to my Volvo 960, it's comfortable, stylish, and makes me feel safe while driving. Unfortunately, due to some financial difficulties, I had to put it on the market. I'm going to miss it dearly. I highly recommend this car to anyone interested in a safe and reliable vehicle. My mom actually put me in this car because she wanted me to have something safe and dependable. As you may know, Volvo is known as the 'safest car in America' and I can attest to that!
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I love this car! If I lived in California, I would definitely keep it. Unfortunately, it's not the best for snow, so I might have to give it away. However, it has been an excellent ride with great performance.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 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 ...
1997 Volvo 960 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 1997 Volvo 960? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Volvo 960.
1997 960: Steering issues | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance Forum
May 23, 2009 ... Be sure the power steering reservoir is not too full or not too low and has the correct type fluid. Inspect the rubber components of the ...
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 ...
How reliable are the 960's? | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance ...
May 29, 2004 ... THe 960 has more problems than the 940-940T. ... 1997 Volvo 960 $9,994 92,000 128 Volvo Saab Wagon White 1,642 mi. ... 960/V70 audio issues. Hi, I'm ...
Other years of Volvo 960
Are you having problems with your 1997 Volvo 960?
Don Moen 2024-10-10
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.
Dashawn Leannon 2024-05-18
I bought this car used in late 2003. I had many problems with the car such as sunroof and trunk leaks that my mechanic couldn't locate (and they're volvo mechanics) and numerous other problems such as replacing the evaporator, compressor, power seats, etc... The car's engine and ride are very good but that's it. The car was in the shop probably every 3 weeks. I finally traded it in on a used Acura which is great. I've owned Volvos since 1986 and I'm not impressed with their build quality.
Joseph Moen 2024-04-10
I have repaired this car so many times, it feels like it was made out of money. The sunroof alone has been repaired 4 times, and the brakes need replacing every 20000 miles. This car has cost me around 2500 dollars a year to repair. Although the engine and transmission worked fine, there were millions of little things like oil leaks and issues with the air conditioner. Unfortunately, I would never buy another Volvo in my life.