🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Volvo

Model:

740

Production Years Covered:

1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988

Chassis Code:

740

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Volvo 740 was positioned as a premium, reliable, and safe mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its robust build quality and comfortable ride. This manual caters to owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain and repair these vehicles effectively, offering dealer-level technical information.

Unique Selling Proposition:

Offers highly detailed, manufacturer-specific repair information that enables owners to perform complex maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs associated with dealership labor. The inclusion of wiring diagrams is a critical advantage.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with other European luxury and near-luxury sedans of its era such as the Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class and BMW 5 Series (E28/E34), as well as American offerings like the Ford Scorpio and certain models from Cadillac and Buick. The 740 differentiated itself with Volvo's signature safety features and a reputation for longevity.

Key Features:

Target Audience:

Volvo owners with basic mechanical skills, DIY enthusiasts, and independent automotive service professionals.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Page Count:

Not Specified (Typical for large workshop manuals, often 1000+ pages)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Viewing Requirements:

Requires Adobe PDF Reader, which is widely available and free.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Emission Control System Details:

Covers components such as catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR systems (if applicable), and related sensors and control modules for meeting emissions standards of the period.

Driveshaft And Axle Details:

Includes information on driveshaft maintenance, universal joints, CV joints (if equipped), rear axle differential maintenance and potential repairs.

Suspension System Details:

Covers front and rear suspension components including shock absorbers, struts, coil springs, control arms, bushings, and alignment specifications.

Steering System Details:

Details on power steering system (pump, hoses, rack/gearbox), steering linkage, tie rods, and alignment procedures.

Restraint System Details:

Information on seat belts, seat belt retractors, and potentially early airbag systems (if equipped on specific models within the year range covered).

Brake System Details:

Comprehensive coverage of front and rear brakes (disc or drum), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, brake line maintenance, caliper and master cylinder overhauls, and ABS system diagnostics (if applicable).

Body Interior Exterior Details:

Repair and replacement procedures for body panels, doors, bumpers, glass, trim, interior panels, seats, and dashboard components.

Body Electrical System Details:

Covers lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior lights), power windows, central locking, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, and associated wiring.

HVAC System Details:

Details on heating system operation, ventilation, air conditioning system components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant), and troubleshooting procedures.

Fuel System Details:

Covers fuel injection (Bosch LH-Jetronic), fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter, and associated sensors. For carbureted models (less common on 740 in later years), it would cover carburetor operation and adjustment.

Procedures Included:

Engine Mechanical Procedures:

Fuel System Procedures:

Transmission Procedures:

Electrical System Procedures:

Chassis And Body Procedures:

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive (Covers all aspects from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Includes detailed diagnostic procedures for engine performance issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures, often using analog diagnostic methods and multimeter readings as per the era's technology.

Component Rebuild:

The manual likely includes detailed instructions for rebuilding major components such as the engine (e.g., complete overhaul), transmission (internal seals, clutch packs), brake calipers, and steering rack.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and macOS.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages

Printability:

All pages are printable, allowing users to print only the necessary sections.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Options:

Engine Code Examples:

B230F (130 hp, 2.3L naturally aspirated), B230FT (160 hp, 2.3L turbocharged)

Typical Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

114-130 hp (depending on exact variant and market)

Typical Horsepower Turbocharged:

162-180 hp (depending on exact variant and boost pressure)

Torque Figures Turbocharged:

Typically in the range of 170-185 lb-ft for turbocharged variants.

Fuel System Type:

Bosch LH-Jetronic fuel injection (electronic fuel injection)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

M46 (4-speed manual with overdrive)

Optional Transmission:

AW71 (3-speed automatic), AW71L (4-speed automatic with overdrive)

Transmission Features:

Overdrive gear for improved fuel economy on manual and some automatic transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1500 kg (depending on body style and equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Emphasis:

Volvo's renowned emphasis on safety, including crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, and later models featured ABS and airbags (though less common on early 740s).

Active Safety Features:

Passive Safety Features:

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems. Features are typical for the era, focusing on core audio playback.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by the era. Cruise control was common. ABS was optional on later models. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane keeping assist or adaptive cruise control.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern standards. Mechanical systems and basic electrical components.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (consult manual for exact specification based on driving conditions).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approximately every 20,000-30,000 miles (recommend checking manual for specific plug type and interval).

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Not applicable to most Volvo 740 engines, which utilize a timing chain. (Confirmation required via specific model/engine variant details in manual).

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving environment (e.g., dusty conditions).

Engine Oil Specification:

Typically SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40 API service category SG or higher (refer to manual for precise viscosity and API rating).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant, mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio is common). Volvo may have specific recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issues:

Common Issues Detail:

The LH-Jetronic fuel injection system, while robust, can be susceptible to issues with the Air Mass Meter (AMM) and Idle Control Valve (ICV), often requiring cleaning or replacement. Over time, vacuum hoses can become brittle and crack, leading to misfires and poor running conditions. Turbocharged models may experience issues related to wastegate operation or turbocharger seals if not properly maintained.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Volvo is a Swedish manufacturer with a long-standing reputation for safety, durability, and robust engineering. Founded in 1927, the company has consistently prioritized passenger safety and reliable vehicle design.

Model Evolution:

The 740 was part of Volvo's 700 series, introduced in 1982 as a successor to the 240 series. It featured a more modern, boxy design and was available with various engine and transmission options, including turbocharged variants. The 740 shared many components with the more upscale 760 but was positioned as a more accessible model.

Production Period:

1982-1992 (global production, with 740 specifically covering 1982-1988 within this manual's scope)