1991 Volvo 740

Introduction: The 1991 Volvo 740 is a classic sedan known for its reliability, safety, and boxy design. It was available with a range of engine and transmission options, including:

• 2.3L B230F inline-4 (114 hp, 142 lb-ft torque) with a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission
• 2.3L B230FT turbocharged inline-4 (162 hp, 184 lb-ft torque) with a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission

Owners generally appreciate the 740’s comfortable interior, spacious cargo area, and solid build quality. However, it has also faced some common issues over the years.

Engine

2.3L B230F

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Causes coolant and oil leaks, rough idling, and overheating. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Oil pan gasket leak: Leads to oil leaks and low oil levels. Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

2.3L B230FT

• Boost control issues: Can result in reduced engine power, turbo lag, or overboosting. Solution: Diagnose and repair boost control components such as the turbocharger, wastegate, or boost solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Delayed or rough shifting: Transmission fluid and filter may be dirty or low. Solution: Change the transmission fluid and filter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
• Slipping gears: May indicate worn-out clutches or a faulty transmission control module. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+

5-Speed Manual

• Difficult gear shifting: Gear shift linkage may be loose or worn. Solution: Adjust or replace the gear shift linkage. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Transmission mount failure: Can cause excessive noise and vibrations while driving. Solution: Replace the transmission mount. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Suspension

• Worn sway bar links: Leads to excessive body roll and noise while cornering. Solution: Replace the sway bar links. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Strut or shock failure: Causes poor ride quality, excessive bouncing, and tire wear. Solution: Replace the struts or shocks. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Can lead to loss of electrical power while driving. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Starter issues: May cause difficulty starting the vehicle or intermittent starting. Solution: Repair or replace the starter motor or solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Exterior

• Door lock actuators: May fail due to corrosion or wear. Solution: Replace the door lock actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Window regulators: Can become worn or break, causing windows to malfunction. Solution: Replace the window regulators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

• HVAC blower motor failure: Results in no air flow from the vents. Solution: Replace the blower motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
• Speedometer or odometer malfunction: May indicate a faulty speed sensor or instrument cluster. Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the faulty component. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary: Overall, the 1991 Volvo 740 is a reliable and safe vehicle. However, it has faced some common issues over the years, particularly with its engine gaskets, intake manifold, turbo system, and transmission. While some of these issues can be costly to repair, the 740 remains a popular choice for those seeking a classic and durable sedan.