Positioning:
The Volvo 240 series was positioned as a reliable, safe, and durable entry-level luxury sedan and wagon, emphasizing practicality and longevity over aggressive performance.
Competitors:
Competed against models like the BMW 3 Series (E30 generation), Mercedes-Benz 190E (W201), Audi 80/90, and American sedans of similar size and price point.
Emphasis:
Safety, robust build quality, spacious interior, rear-wheel drive platform, fuel-efficient engine options.
Manual Utility:
Essential guide for owners to understand the functions and basic maintenance of their 1992 Volvo 240, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Transmission operation (automatic and manual), driveshaft, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, brakes (hydraulic system, parking brake)
Electrical:
Lighting systems, instrumentation, power accessories, battery, fuses, relays
Body And Interior:
Climate control, seating adjustments, door locks, windows, mirrors, interior lighting, safety restraints
Operation:
Starting and driving, using controls and instruments, climate control operation, audio system usage
Maintenance:
Fluid level checks, tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement, jump starting
Troubleshooting:
Basic diagnostic indicators (warning lights), minor issue resolution (e.g., flat tire)
Depth:
Owner-level information for safe operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Not a repair manual.
Digital Format Options:
PDF (if scanned), Printed (original)
Quality:
Original manufacturer quality (clear text and diagrams)
Binding:
Stapled or perfect bound booklet
Paper:
Standard paper stock for owner manuals
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Engine Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2316 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 114-130 hp (depending on specific variant B230F/FB)
Torque:
Approx. 130-140 lb-ft (depending on specific variant B230F/FB)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or LH-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition with Knock Sensor
Type:
4-Speed Manual (M46 Overdrive)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (AW71L)
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter, often with 'Economy/Power' mode selector.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Volvo Synthetic Transmission Fluid (or equivalent Dexron III)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil
Length:
Approx. 191 inches (Sedan) / 193 inches (Wagon)
Height:
Approx. 56 inches (Sedan) / 57 inches (Wagon)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,800-3,100 lbs (depending on body style and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,000-4,200 lbs
Cargo Volume Sedan:
Approx. 16 cubic feet (trunk)
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Approx. 40-70 cubic feet (with rear seats up/down)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Four-star rating (driver and passenger, likely for earlier model years but indicative of design philosophy)
Braking System:
Four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes (front vented, rear solid)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag (standard on 1992 models)
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts (front and rear), manual lap belts for center rear seat
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced passenger compartment, designed for structural integrity.
Child Safety:
Rear door child safety locks, provision for child safety seats.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player, often with power antenna and upgraded speaker options.
Instrumentation:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel, temperature, oil pressure, and various warning lights.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
System Type:
Manual HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system with adjustable fan speeds and temperature control.
Connectivity Features:
Minimal by modern standards; primarily focused on core vehicle functions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or 7,500 miles with synthetic oil and filter replacement).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (e.g., NGK BPR6ES or equivalent).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 50,000-60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for B230 engine).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (consult manual for specific temperature ranges).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Volvo Blue Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Fuel pump, radiator, heater core, mass airflow sensor (MAF), ignition components (coil, distributor cap/rotor), rear axle bushings.
Electrical Gremlins:
Intermittent issues can arise from aging wiring harnesses, grounds, and connectors, particularly in the engine bay and dashboard.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, rear hatch/trunk area, front strut towers.
Volvo Philosophy:
Volvo has a long-standing reputation for safety, durability, and engineering integrity since its founding in 1927.
240 Series Origin:
The 240 series, introduced in 1974 as the 244 (sedan) and 245 (wagon), was a derivative of the highly successful 140 series, evolving into one of Volvo's most iconic and enduring models.
1992 Model Year Updates:
Minor styling updates, standard driver airbag, improved fuel injection systems, and potential interior refinements.
Production Period:
1974-1993
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Gothenburg, Sweden; also assembled in Belgium, Canada, and Australia.
Safety Awards:
Consistently recognized by safety organizations throughout its production run for its robust build and safety features. Often cited in 'safest cars' lists of its era.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as reliable, though specific issues like electrical components and cooling system parts can be points of attention with age.
Epa Fuel Economy:
Approx. 20-22 MPG city / 26-28 MPG highway (depending on transmission and driving conditions).
