940 / 960

1990-1998 / Sedan / Estate / Sweden

All 940 / 960 problems All workshop issues

Common Suspension and Steering

Front strut mounts and bearings

Symptoms

Clunking over bumps, steering that doesn't self-centre, or uneven tyre wear. Sometimes a creaking noise when turning at low speed.

Cause

The rubber top mounts perish and the bearings corrode or seize. This is a high-wear item on these heavy cars.

Fix

Replace the strut top mounts and bearings together.

Use OEM Volvo or quality aftermarket (Meyle, Lemförder).

It's a simple job with the struts off the car.

Fit new bump stops and dust covers while you're at it.

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// More 940 / 960 problems

Other known issues

Common Suspension and Steering

Control arm bushings and ball joints

Wandering steering, clunking over bumps, or the car pulls to one side. Excessive play in the front end.

Common Suspension and Steering

Rear axle trailing arm bushings and Panhard rod

The rear end feels loose or unstable, especially under braking or cornering. You might see uneven rear tyre wear.

Common Suspension and Steering

Worn steering rack and tie rods

Play in the steering, wandering at speed, or knocking when turning. Sometimes you'll see fluid leaking from the rack boots.

Critical Engine

Oil leaks everywhere

You'll find oil pooling under the car, dripping from the valve cover, front and rear main seals, cam seals, or oil cooler lines. The B230 engines (940) and B6304 (960) both weep oil as they age, it's not if, it's when.

Common Engine

Flame trap and PCV system clogged

Engine bogs down, idles rough, struggles to rev, or won't start when hot. You might get excessive crankcase pressure, blowing out seals and pushing oil into the intake.

Critical Engine

Rough idle, hesitation, or won't start (fuel system issues)

Stumbling acceleration, poor fuel economy, hard starting, or stalling. Sometimes it runs fine cold but misfires when warm. Check engine light may be on or flashing.

View all 24 940 / 960 problems