1994 Volvo 960 2.9

Summary:

Very dependable, safe, smooth running, quiet, comfortable car

Faults:

Left rear wheel bearing failure at 82k miles.

ECT (engine coolant temp) sensor failed at 93k miles.

General Comments:

Recently struck from behind while stopped in traffic. Offending vehicle was '98 Dodge minivan traveling at 35 - 40 mph and did not attempt to stop. My 960 was pushed into the vehicle in front and totalled. I had no injuries. I am looking for another 960.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 15th February, 2001

24th Aug 2001, 10:51

Definitely a smart move if you want a safe car!

1994 Volvo 960 2.9

Summary:

Temperemental sports sedan

Faults:

Perennial brake rotor vibration and replacement.

Cruise control went out at 100K.

Entire new valve job at 120,000, but I think it was the dealer's fault due to faulty timing belt installation.

Radiator thermostat out at 112K.

Minor light/electrical bugaboos.

Sunroof jammed recently.

Then $600 to fix the ignition (car thought it was in park).

General Comments:

Despite all the above I really like this car! It is super comfortable, solid and surprisingly quick especially when you choose sport shift mode, it's just very pleaureable to drive, even around the bends, safe feeling.

I think the valve job was unlucky, the endless rotor replacement is irritating and there is never a satisfactory answer from the dealer. However, it has never let me down starting.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th December, 2000

26th Feb 2001, 17:07

IPD (http://www.ipdusa.com) have replacement rotors for the brakes that may well fix this problem. They are also cheaper than the original rotors.

14th Jun 2004, 07:51

The problem is not the rotors ITS THE HUB!

11th Oct 2009, 17:57

A frequent cause of rotors distorting on Volvos is over tightening of the wheel nuts.

Most shops put them on with an air impact wrench with the torque set way too high.

It doesn't take a lot of torque to secure them.

Do it by hand and use a torque wrench to the specification listed in your handbook, you should have no problem with distorted rotors.

The other common cause on any vehicle is repeated heavy braking.

1994 Volvo 960 Sedan 2.9

Summary:

Great quality as evidenced by the fact it is running strong at 146000 miles

Faults:

Rear main seal leak.

Automatic transmission shifter had a broken clip in the shifter.

All transmission sensors failed.

Air conditioning bellows behind the dash failed.

General Comments:

Overall a great car, very stable, powerful, good handling and quality. Biggest mistake was taking the car to the Volvo dealer for any kind of service. Once I found an independent Volvo mechanic, I appreciated the car much more.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 11th November, 2000

20th Jan 2010, 17:38

I have a 94 Volvo 960 with 243k. Just gave it a tune up, and she's going like I just pulled off the lot.