Volvo 940 Common Problems: What to Look For Before Buying
The Volvo 940 is one of those old-school cars that just keeps going. It’s tough, simple, and has that unmistakable boxy charm that classic Volvo fans love. Whether you’re picking one up as a daily, a project, or just for the nostalgia, the 940 can be a brilliant car — if you know what to look for. Like any older vehicle, especially one from the ‘90s, it comes with its fair share of wear-and-tear issues. So here’s a handy guide to the most common Volvo 940 problems, shared by people who’ve driven, fixed, and loved them.
1. Electrical Quirks — Nothing Crazy, Just Old Age
The 940’s electrics are pretty straightforward, but after 30+ years, even the simplest systems can get a little fussy.
🔌 Watch out for:
- Windows that stop working randomly
- Flickering dash lights
- Central locking that’s hit or miss
Most of the time it’s old relays, tired switches, or corroded connections. Nothing too serious — just part of owning an older car.
2. Cooling System — Keep an Eye on the Temps
Cooling systems are a common issue, especially if the car still has its original radiator or hoses.
💧 Things to look for:
- Coolant puddles under the car
- Cracks in the radiator end tanks (especially if they’re plastic)
- Signs of overheating or low coolant
A replacement radiator or water pump isn’t the end of the world — and it’ll help the engine stay healthy in the long run.
3. Saggy Rear Suspension on Estates
If you’re checking out a 940 estate (wagon), have a look at how it’s sitting.
🛞 If it looks like this 👇 at the back:
- It’s probably time to replace the self-levelling Nivomat shocks
- Or someone swapped in standard shocks that aren’t up to the job
Upgrading to regular shocks and springs is a common fix — and it might even ride better afterward.
4. Rust — Yes, It Happens (Even to Volvos)
They hold up pretty well against rust, but no ‘90s car is completely immune. Moisture, road salt, and neglect can take their toll.
🧱 Check for rust:
- Around the wheel arches
- Under the battery tray
- Around the windscreen, tailgate, and under the carpets
Give the sills a good knock too — surface rust is okay, holes are not.
5. Brakes — Simple, But Need Love
The 940’s brakes are easy to work on, but after a few decades, you’ll want to check the whole system.
🛑 Watch for:
- A soft brake pedal
- Pulling to one side when braking
- Handbrake not doing its job
Calipers, lines, and the master cylinder all age — but replacements are cheap and widely available.
6. Loose Steering or Clunky Suspension
If the steering feels vague or you hear knocking noises over bumps, it’s probably just tired front suspension parts.
⚙️ Likely culprits:
- Worn bushings
- Ball joints
- Tie rod ends
Nothing too scary — most owners end up doing a front-end refresh at some point, and it makes a huge difference.
7. Little Oil Leaks Here and There
These engines are solid, but they can weep a bit of oil as they get older.
🛢️ Check around:
- The valve cover
- Rear main seal
- Oil cooler lines
A little leak isn’t a big deal — but if there’s a puddle every time it parks, it’s worth sorting out.
Is the Volvo 940 Reliable?
Absolutely. The Volvo 940 is one of the most reliable cars of its era, and when looked after, it’ll keep running long after many modern cars have given up. There are loads of examples out there with 200,000+ miles still doing the school run or hauling stuff around town.
✅ Parts are cheap and easy to find
✅ It’s easy to work on — great for DIYers
✅ It’s tough, comfortable, and has loads of character
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking about picking up a Volvo 940, go for it — just make sure you know what to check. Most problems are the kind you’d expect from a car of this age, and with a bit of care, the 940 can be an incredibly satisfying car to own and drive.
Take your time, check for rust and basic maintenance, and you might just end up with one of the most dependable classic cars out there.
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