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MOTRS

740 / 760

1982-1992 / Sedan / Estate / Sweden

All 740 / 760 problems All workshop issues
Common Suspension and Steering

Ball Joints and Control Arm Bushings

Symptoms

Clonking over bumps, wandering at speed, uneven tyre wear, steering feels vague.

Cause

Ball joints and bushings wear out. Volvo used pressed-in bushings that can't be replaced separately, so you often have to replace the whole control arm.

Fix

Replace lower control arms (with ball joints and bushings included).

Aftermarket arms are cheaper but often don't last.

Use Meyle HD or OEM Volvo.

You'll need a press or a big hammer and a socket to get the old bushings out if you're replacing them separately.

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// More 740 / 760 problems

Other known issues

Common Suspension and Steering

Front Strut Top Mount Failure

Clonking over bumps, steering doesn't return to centre, negative camber on one side, tyre wear on the inside edge.
Critical Suspension and Steering

Steering Rack Leaks

Power steering fluid puddle under the car, whining noise when turning, heavy steering.
Common Suspension and Steering

Rear Axle Bushings

The rear end feels loose, especially under braking or cornering. You might hear clunking or feel the tail wagging.
Critical Engine

Oil Leaks from Cam Seals and Valve Cover Gasket

Oil puddles under the front of the engine, sometimes dripping onto the exhaust manifold and smoking. The valve cover gasket weeps oil down the side of the block.
Critical Engine

Timing Belt Failure

The engine dies instantly, often with a loud slap or clatter. Won't restart. If you're lucky, it just stops; if you're unlucky, bent valves and a destroyed head.
Common Engine

Flame Trap Clogging (PCV System)

Rough idle, oil leaks from every seal, oil in the intake tract, sometimes a whistling noise from the crankcase breather.
View all 27 740 / 760 problems