1997 Volvo WG

1997 Volvo WG

The 1997 Volvo WG is a mid-size, luxury sedan that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.4-liter, inline-5 cylinder that produced 140 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The optional engine was a 2.9-liter, inline-6 cylinder that produced 205 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the 1997 Volvo WG generally praise the vehicle’s comfortable interior, luxurious amenities, and safety features. However, some owners have reported experiencing various issues with the vehicle, which are detailed below.

Engine

2.4-liter, inline-5 cylinder

• Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include overheating, rough idling, and poor performance. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
• Timing belt failure: The timing belt can fail, causing catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms include a loud whining noise from the engine, difficulty starting the engine, and poor performance. The solution is to replace the timing belt. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
• Crankshaft position sensor failure: The crankshaft position sensor can fail, preventing the engine from starting. Symptoms include a no-start condition, intermittent stalling, and rough idling. The solution is to replace the crankshaft position sensor. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400

2.9-liter, inline-6 cylinder

• Head gasket failure: The head gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and a decrease in engine power. The solution is to replace the head gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500
• Valve cover gasket leak: The valve cover gasket can leak, causing oil leaks. Symptoms include oil spots under the vehicle and a burning smell from the engine. The solution is to replace the valve cover gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400

Transmission

5-speed manual transmission

• Clutch failure: The clutch can fail, making it difficult or impossible to shift gears. Symptoms include a slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, and grinding noises. The solution is to replace the clutch. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000

4-speed automatic transmission

• Transmission slipping: The transmission can slip, causing a loss of power and difficulty accelerating. Symptoms include a high-pitched whining noise from the transmission and a decrease in engine power. The solution is to replace or rebuild the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $3,000
• Transmission fluid leak: The transmission fluid can leak, causing a loss of fluid and damage to the transmission. Symptoms include a lack of lubrication, grinding gears, and a burning smell from the transmission. The solution is to replace the transmission fluid and fix the source of the leak. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500

Suspension

• Strut failure: The struts can fail, causing a decrease in ride quality, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Symptoms include a clunking noise from the suspension, a bouncing ride, and difficulty steering. The solution is to replace the struts. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
• Ball joint failure: The ball joints can fail, causing a decrease in ride quality, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Symptoms include a clunking noise from the suspension, a shaking steering wheel, and difficulty steering. The solution is to replace the ball joints. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, preventing the battery from charging. Symptoms include a dead battery, dim headlights, and a warning light on the dashboard. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
• Battery failure: The battery can fail, preventing the vehicle from starting. Symptoms include a dead battery, no power to the electrical system, and a warning light on the dashboard. The solution is to replace the battery. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200

Exterior

• Rust: The body of the vehicle can rust, especially in areas where there is high humidity or salt on the roads. Symptoms include rust spots on the body, bubbling paint, and holes in the metal. The solution is to repair the rust damage. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $3,000+

Interior

• Power window failure: The power window motors or switches can fail, preventing the windows from opening or closing. Symptoms include inoperative windows, grinding noises, and a burning smell from the motor. The solution is to replace the failed component. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500

Summary

The 1997 Volvo WG is a reliable vehicle with a luxurious interior and a variety of powerful engine options. However, some owners have reported experiencing various issues with the vehicle, including engine leaks, transmission problems, suspension failures, electrical issues, rust, and interior component failures. The severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the specific problem.