🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Volvo

Model:

960

Year:

1995

Chassis Code:

Type 960

Platform:

Volvo Type 1

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Volvo 960, particularly in its 1995 iteration, represented Volvo's premium offering in the late 1990s, positioned as a comfortable, safe, and durable executive sedan and station wagon, competing against established luxury marques and other European sedans known for their build quality.

Competitive Analysis:

Key competitors included models from BMW (e.g., 5 Series), Mercedes-Benz (e.g., E-Class), Audi (e.g., 100/A6), and Saab (e.g., 9000). The 960 was noted for its refined inline-six engine, safety innovations, and distinctive Scandinavian design, though it sometimes lagged in performance metrics compared to its German rivals.

Key Features:

Rear-wheel drive, longitudinally mounted inline-six engines (B6304FS 3.0L), focus on occupant safety (crumple zones, side-impact protection), comfortable ride quality, spacious interior, and robust build.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Driveshaft, Differential, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Climate Control, Bodywork, Interior Trim, Safety Systems (SRS Airbag), Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Lubrication & Maintenance.

Page Count:

163

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, though not explicitly stated, common for modern sales)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for the 960's inline-six engines.

Engine Management:

Information on fuel injection, ignition timing, emissions control systems (e.g., Lambda control).

Transmission Automotive:

Coverage for the AW-30-43LE 4-speed automatic transmission, including diagnostics and repair.

Braking System:

Front and rear brake systems, including disc brake overhaul, hydraulic components, and parking brake.

Steering Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, steering rack, power steering system.

Electrical Lighting:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component locations, and troubleshooting for the electrical system, including lighting, instrumentation, and power accessories.

Body Exterior:

Procedures for body panel removal, alignment, and repair; door and latch mechanisms; glass replacement.

Climate Control:

Operation and repair of the HVAC system, including A/C components and heater core.

Preventative Maintenance:

Detailed schedules and procedures for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections, and spark plug replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, often with symptom-based flowcharts.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing major components such as the alternator, starter motor, fuel pump, water pump, and radiators.

Engine Overhaul:

Instructions for engine teardown, inspection of internal components (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), cylinder head work, and reassembly.

Transmission Service:

Procedures for transmission fluid and filter changes, as well as more in-depth repairs to the automatic transmission.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, ranging from basic fluid level checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and component replacement.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (assumed for digital sales, enabling searchability and easy printing)

Print Quality:

High resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams, schematics, and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (for digital; if printed, likely spiral-bound for lay-flat usability)

Paper Type:

N/A (for digital; if printed, durable paper stock suitable for shop environments)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

B6304FS

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder (DOHC)

Displacement:

2922 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.1:1

Horsepower:

180 hp (132 kW) @ 5700 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

250 Nm (184 lb-ft) @ 4200 rpm (approx.)

Fuel System Type:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (91-95 Octane)

Ignition System Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs

Cooling System Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 Liters (2.5 Gallons)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.0 Liters (6.3 US Quarts) with filter

Recommended Oil Grade:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API SJ or ACEA A3/B3)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

AW-30-43LE 4-Speed Automatic

Transmission Type:

M90 5-Speed Manual (less common on 960, more prevalent on 940)

Transmission Features:

Lock-up torque converter, electronic control for shift points (on automatic).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Volvo Approved ATF or Dexron III (e.g., Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 Liters (4.2 US Quarts) for fluid change

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4870 mm (191.7 in)

Width:

1790 mm (70.5 in)

Height:

1410 mm (55.5 in)

Wheelbase:

2770 mm (109.1 in)

Front Track:

1510 mm (59.4 in)

Rear Track:

1490 mm (58.7 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1550 kg (3417 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 2100 kg (4630 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

Not officially specified by Volvo for this model year, but generally limited.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x108 mm

Center Bore:

65.1 mm

Lug Nut Size:

M14 x 1.5

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 500 Liters (17.7 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

While specific NHTSA ratings for the 1995 model are not readily available in a standardized format for historical records, Volvo's reputation for safety was paramount. The 960 was engineered with advanced safety features for its era.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Power assisted steering, Stability enhancement (via suspension design).

Passive Features:

Reinforced passenger cage, Crumple zones (front and rear), Side Impact Protection System (SIPS), Three-point seat belts with pretensioners, Dual front airbags (SRS), Impact-absorbing steering column, Child safety locks.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory-installed AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, often with premium sound systems (e.g., Dynaudio or Harman Kardon).

Dashboard Features:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature; warning lights for various systems; often climate control with manual or automatic temperature settings.

Driver Assistance:

ABS is the primary driver assistance system available on this model. Cruise control is a common option.

Connectivity:

Limited by era; typically radio antenna and potentially power outlets. OBD-I diagnostic port, evolving towards OBD-II compatibility in later models/regions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions, refer to manual for specifics).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs, or as specified in manual. Original plugs were Bosch (e.g., W7DC or similar).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Volvo recommends replacement every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for the inline-six engines.

Coolant Type:

Volvo VCS (Valve Cover Seal) compatible coolant, typically a mixture of 50% ethylene glycol antifreeze and 50% distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to reservoir cap for exact specification).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Volvo Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF.

Known Issues:

Oil leaks (from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, front/rear main seals), aging rubber components (hoses, bushings), ABS sensor failures, climate control panel failures, and occasional ignition module issues. The ABS warning light is a common diagnostic target.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Volvo, a Swedish manufacturer, has a long-standing reputation for safety, durability, and functional design since its founding in 1927. This heritage is a cornerstone of the 960's appeal.

Model Evolution:

The 960 was the flagship model in Volvo's 900 series, succeeding the 700 series. Introduced in 1990, it initially featured the new inline-six engine (derived from Volvo's modular engine design). The 1995 model year saw minor updates and refinements, including a more integrated dashboard design and continued emphasis on the inline-six engine.

Production Years:

1990-1997 (as 960), then evolved into the S90/V90.

Manufacturing Locations:

मुख्य रूप से स्वीडन (मुख्य रूप से गोटेबोर्ग).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1995 Volvo 960 aren't prominently cited as standalone achievements, the 900 series as a whole consistently received accolades for safety and build quality from automotive publications and organizations globally throughout its production run.