142 / 144 / 145

1966-1974 / Sedan / Estate / Sweden

All 142 / 144 / 145 problems All workshop issues

Critical Fuel System

Fuel Pump Failure (Mechanical or Electric)

Symptoms

Engine cranks but won't start, or starts then dies. Sputtering, loss of power, stalling under load.

Cause

Mechanical pumps (early cars) wear out, diaphragms split, valves stick. Electric pumps (later cars) fail due to age, contaminated fuel, or running dry.

Fix

Mechanical pump: unbolt from the side of the block, fit a new one with a new gasket.

Prime it by cranking the engine.

Electric pump (usually SU or Bosch): mounted under the car or in the boot.

Check for power at the pump (12V with ignition on).

If power is present but pump doesn't run, replace it.

Fit an inline fuel filter upstream of the pump to keep debris out.

Know something we don't?

Owned a Volvo 142 / 144 / 145? Share your experience with this issue. What worked, what didn't, costs, tips. Help the community.

Submit an update

// More 142 / 144 / 145 problems

Other known issues

Common Fuel System

Fuel Tank Rust and Contaminated Fuel

Rough running, clogged filters, stalling, rusty sediment in the fuel filter, fuel leaks at seams or filler neck.

Critical Fuel System

Perished Fuel Hoses and Leaks

Fuel smell in the cabin or engine bay, visible drips or wet patches around hose connections, hard starting, rough running.

Common Engine

Oil Leaks from Front and Rear Crankshaft Seals

Persistent weeping or pooling of oil beneath the engine, especially at the front timing cover or rear main seal area. You'll see oil misting onto the bellhousing or dripping from the sump.

Common Engine

Worn Valve Guides and Oil Consumption

Blue smoke on startup or deceleration, fouled spark plugs, rising oil consumption between changes (more than half a litre per 1,000 km).

Common Engine

Carburettor Issues (SU or Zenith-Stromberg)

Rough idle, hesitation, stalling when cold, flat spots under acceleration, poor fuel economy, black exhaust smoke.

Critical Engine

Worn Timing Chain or Belt Tensioner

Rattling or slapping noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup or idle. Loss of power, poor running, or misfires if timing has jumped.

View all 21 142 / 144 / 145 problems