Used Volvo 940

What to know before buying: Volvo 940

From 3 forum threads · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• A properly maintained 940 is described as highly reliable and durable, with most faults relatively straightforward to repair.[2][3]
• The owner of a 1993 turbodiesel praises its comfort, quietness and stability, including for rear passengers.[2]one source
• Many parts remain available and the 940 shares much with the 700 series, though lighting, body and some trim pieces can be specific.[2][3]
• High mileage is considered less important than documented maintenance history and the car’s actual condition.[3]one source

Typical faults

• Age-related rust appears around jacking points, sill ends and the battery tray; significant corrosion is a reason to walk away.[3]one source
• The heater matrix can leak, and repairing it requires removal of the entire dashboard.[3]one source
• Failed self-levelling suspension is cited as a serious fault that may justify choosing another car.[3]one source
• The owner of a 1993 turbodiesel reports a leaking power-steering system and a worn steering rack.[2]one source

  1993–1993 · VW LT-derived six-cylinder turbodiesel

• Sticking brakes are reported, with rebuilding the caliper cylinders cited as the remedy.[1]one source
• On a 1993 turbodiesel, repeated pedal use at idle made it hard and reduced braking; a commenter attributed this to the vacuum pump.[2]one source

  1993–1993 · VW LT-derived six-cylinder turbodiesel

• An owners’ forum identifies oxidised or “green” electrical contacts as a typical fault.[1]one source

Which engine and version to take

• The 2.3-litre turbo is recommended as a good choice; the naturally aspirated version is called sluggish, while the basic automatic is described as long-lasting.[3]one source

What to avoid

• The VW LT-derived six-cylinder turbodiesel is described as noisy and weak at low revs; check carefully for overheating and heavy oil contamination.[1][2]

What to check at the inspection

• Inspect the jacking points, sill ends and battery-tray area carefully; significant rust is a major warning sign.[3]one source
• Lift both front carpets and look for coolant, which may reveal a leaking heater matrix.[3]one source
• Check the self-levelling suspension and assess whether repairing it would be uneconomical.[3]one source
• Ask for documented maintenance history; the source stresses that it matters more than the odometer reading alone.[3]one source
• On a diesel, look for evidence of overheating and excessive oil leakage or contamination around the engine.[1]one source
• Test the brakes for sticking calipers and inspect the power-steering system and rack for leaks.[1][2]
• Test the air conditioning in operation; the source warns that “it only needs a recharge” is often misleading.[3]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]iauto.lv — volvo 940 diesel universal mekleeju - Forums · forum
2. [2]iauto.lv — Volvo 940 1993.gads - Lasītāja pieredze · forum
3. [3]volvoforums.org.uk — Volvo 940 purchase advice · forum

Spotted an error? Tell us