1994 Volvo 960

Introduction The 1994 Volvo 960 was a popular luxury sedan known for its safety features, comfortable interior, and powerful engine. It was available with two engine and transmission options: a 2.4L inline-six engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 2.5L inline-five turbocharged engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. While the 960 received positive reviews for its performance and luxury, it had its share of issues.

Engine

2.4L Inline-Six

• Spark plug failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfiring, rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake manifold gasket leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged Inline-Five

• Turbocharger failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Decreased boost, loss of power, exhaust smoke
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, oil leaks, overheating
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: Volvo recall #95V024000

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle struggles to accelerate, transmission jerks or hesitates
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Solenoid failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifts erratically, hard shifts, delayed shifts
  • Solution: Replace solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut mount failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises from suspension, decreased ride comfort
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension bushings worn
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor handling, excessive tire wear
  • Solution: Replace rear suspension bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim lights, electrical problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electrical gremlins
  • Description/Symptoms: Random electrical issues, such as lights flickering or gauges malfunctioning
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door lock issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking doors, broken door handles
  • Solution: Repair or replace door locks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the sunroof
  • Solution: Replace sunroof seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heater core failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No heat from the heater, fog on the windshield
  • Solution: Replace heater core
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blower motor failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents
  • Solution: Replace blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary While the 1994 Volvo 960 was a well-received luxury sedan, it had its share of issues. The most serious and expensive problems were related to the engine, such as turbocharger failure and head gasket failure. Transmission slipping and solenoid failure were also common issues. Suspension and electrical problems were less severe but could still be costly to repair. Overall, the 960’s reliability was average, with some issues being relatively minor and others being more significant and expensive.