22nd Mar 2005, 09:23
The ECU (computer) was a known problem on 1989 740s. Other years don't seem to be as affected.
The battery cable meltdown problem was the subject of a recall to replace the cable and install a hard plastic cover to protect it from chafing.
Unfortunately, all of these cars suffered from drooping headliners after 8-10 years.
21st Jun 2006, 21:25
1991 Volvo 760 Wagon - Paid$1700 (May, 2006) with 200,000 miles., then replaced entire exhaust (1 long cherry bomb!), front struts, rear shocks, A/C compressor, timing belt and radiator. Added 17s and 55s. Painted it rally red. Now wife calls it hers. Looking for another brick.
29th Mar 2011, 12:51
Just bought a '89 740 GLE for $900 and sank $3200 into it in parts. Computer problems. Turned out it was the O2 sensor that kept frying it.
After all the new parts were installed, I drove it and am falling in love with it quickly. This car was in prime shape body wise, it has 335000 kms on it and still runs great for now.
I had to replace lots of things on it, but for $4000 it is a great running car. Drives very solid, like a tank. I see why they call it the brick, it is an import from Sweden and parts are easy to find here in Canada.
If anyone has one of these find yourself a good Volvo mechanic, but stay away from the dealerships as they will screw you to fix it, but small shops are very reasonable.
I was going to give it to my daughter but I think I will keep it for myself as I am really enjoying it. A cool ride for sure.
8th Apr 2014, 18:43
I had the exact same problems with my 740 GLE 16 valve engine. The computer problem occurred at 50,000 miles. My husband kept cranking the engine. Every time he cranked, he was getting gas into the engine. When the mechanic fixed it, tons of black smoke billowed from the exhaust due to the constant cranking. Don't crank the hell out of it if it doesn't start. It makes an annoying noise now that won't go away. It has 110,000 miles on it now. I've always loved driving it!
19th Jan 2005, 19:08
I loved my 1986 740 & passed it on to my daughter. She ran it to about 270,000 km with the engine never having more than new spark plugs. Compression was as good as new at 200,000 km
I wished I could have gotten it back, but two way drive was 4000 miles. She sold it wanting 4 wheel drive & more "reliability" Funny noises were bothering her. One rebuilt starter at about 150,000 km. Body was not as solid as 1976 previous Volvo, but what car is built like a truck these days New owner was to rebuild & would be good for 1000's more miles.