🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Volvo

Model:

850

Model Years Covered:

1995, 1996

👋 Introduction

Era:

The Volvo 850 represented a significant step for Volvo, moving into a more upscale and performance-oriented segment with its front-wheel-drive platform and distinctive five-cylinder engines.

Competitors:

Competed with European luxury sedans and wagons such as the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and entry-level luxury models from Japanese manufacturers.

Design Philosophy:

Known for Volvo's signature safety, robust build quality, and unique Scandinavian styling.

Engine Layout:

Transverse-mounted inline-five cylinder engines, a distinctive characteristic of the 850 series.

Body Styles:

Available as a sedan (Saloon) and a five-door wagon (Estate).

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for the Volvo 850 (1995-1996)

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive, transaxle, drive axles, CV joints

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, repair, ABS system, brake fluid specifications

Electrical:

Complete electrical system diagrams, wiring harnesses, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, accessories

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis and repair, A/C system service

Body:

Body panel repair, interior trim, glass replacement, doors, locks, exterior trim

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Extensive troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, fluid checks and top-offs

Engine Repair:

Engine overhaul, head gasket replacement, timing belt replacement, piston/ring replacement

Transmission Repair:

Torque converter replacement, clutch replacement (manual), valve body diagnosis, seal replacement

Brake Service:

Brake pad/rotor replacement, brake caliper service, bleeding the brake system, ABS sensor replacement

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Diagnosing electrical shorts, open circuits, power delivery issues, component testing

Suspension Work:

Strut/shock replacement, control arm replacement, ball joint service, sway bar link replacement

Cooling System:

Radiator replacement, water pump replacement, thermostat replacement, coolant flush

Fuel System:

Fuel injector cleaning/replacement, fuel pump diagnosis, fuel filter replacement

Body And Interior:

Door handle replacement, mirror replacement, headlight/taillight assembly replacement, dashboard removal/installation

Depth:

Expert-level, covering complete overhauls, complex diagnostics, and detailed component replacement

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval

Resolution:

High-resolution, clear images and diagrams

Printability:

Printable for offline use, allowing creation of physical repair guides

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

B5234 (2.3L Turbo), B5252 (2.5L NA), B5254 (2.5L NA)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2435 cc) and 2.3 Liters (2319 cc)

Configuration:

Inline 5-cylinder, DOHC, 20 valves

Horsepower Na:

Approx. 140-170 hp (Naturally Aspirated variants)

Horsepower Turbo:

Approx. 225-250 hp (Turbocharged variants, e.g., T-5, T-5R)

Torque Na:

Approx. 150-165 lb-ft (Naturally Aspirated variants)

Torque Turbo:

Approx. 240-270 lb-ft (Turbocharged variants)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch LH-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended for turbo models)

ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) for managing fuel, ignition, and emissions

Timing Belt:

Mandatory periodic replacement of the timing belt is critical due to interference engine design.

🔧 Transmission

Type Manual:

5-speed manual transmission (M56)

Type Automatic:

4-speed automatic transmission (AW50-42LE, AW50-43LE)

Traction Control:

Optional TRACS (Traction Control System) available on some models.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Volvo recommends Dexron III or equivalent for automatic transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4790 mm (Sedan) / 4805 mm (Wagon)

Width:

Approx. 1760 mm

Height:

Approx. 1410 mm (Sedan) / 1450 mm (Wagon)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2640 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (depending on body style and drivetrain)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

NHTSA 5-Star rating (driver and passenger) for frontal impact (common for the era, though specific year data might vary).

IIHS Side Impact:

Good rating in IIHS side impact tests (often for models equipped with side airbags, which became more common towards the end of the 850's run).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models.

Traction Control:

Optional TRACS (Traction Control System) on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side-impact airbags (SIPS) available on later models.

Sips:

Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) including reinforced A, B, and C pillars, and reinforced doors.

Whiplash Protection:

Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) in front seats on some later models for enhanced neck protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory premium audio systems with cassette and CD players were common options. Digital sound processing (DSP) was available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Optional remote keyless entry and alarm system.

Automatic Climate Control:

Optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) provided precise cabin temperature management.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Recommended every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical interval: Replace every 70,000 miles (110,000 km) or 7 years. Failure to do so can cause catastrophic engine damage due to interference design.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., standard copper vs. platinum).

Coolant Flush:

Flush and replace coolant every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, SH or SJ certified SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic motor oil. Consult owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate.

Coolant Type:

Volvo long-life coolant (Blue) or equivalent G48/Paraflu 11 (ethylene glycol based).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Volvo hydraulic fluid or ATF Dexron II/III.

ABS Module Failure:

Common failure of the ABS control module, often indicated by illuminated ABS warning light.

Mass Air Flow Sensor:

MAF sensor can become dirty or fail, leading to rough idle, poor acceleration, and check engine lights.

Oxygen Sensors:

Oxygen sensors have a finite lifespan and typically require replacement around 100,000 miles, affecting fuel economy and emissions.

Crankshaft Position Sensor:

Failure of the crankshaft position sensor can lead to the engine not starting or stalling unexpectedly.

Window Regulators:

Power window regulators can fail, causing windows to drop into the door.

Rear Wheel Bearings:

Rear wheel bearings can wear out, leading to humming or grinding noises.

Eccentric Bolt Seizure:

Rear axle eccentric adjustment bolts can seize, making alignment difficult.

📚 Vehicle History

Volvo Safety Legacy:

Volvo has a long-standing reputation for safety innovation, dating back to the introduction of the three-point seatbelt.

850 Introduction:

The Volvo 850 was introduced in 1991 in Europe and 1993 in North America, replacing the rear-wheel-drive 240 series. The 1995-1996 models represent the later stages of the 850's lifecycle before its successor, the S70/V70, was introduced.

T5R And R Variants:

The 850 platform was known for its performance variants like the T-5R and 'R' models, featuring turbocharged engines and sportier suspension tuning, which are covered in detail.

Manufacturing Plant:

Primarily manufactured in Ghent, Belgium, and Torslanda, Sweden.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Volvo 850 T-5R was recognized by Car and Driver as one of its '10Best' for 1995, highlighting its performance and luxury balance.

Safety Awards:

Consistently received high safety ratings from organizations like IIHS and NHTSA due to Volvo's focus on occupant protection.