Positioning:
A high-quality, reliable executive car known for its safety, comfort, and robust engineering, particularly popular in the premium segment.
Competitors:
Competed with other European executive cars of the era, such as Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, and Audi 100/200.
Durability:
Known for its solid construction and long-term durability, a hallmark of Volvo vehicles.
Safety Focus:
Pioneering safety features and structural integrity, reinforcing Volvo's reputation as a safety leader.
Turbocharged Performance:
The 'Turbo' models offered enhanced performance with the B23ET/FT and B230FT engines, providing a blend of power and efficiency.
Cost Savings:
Enables DIY servicing, potentially saving $50-$60 per hour on labor costs compared to professional shop rates.
Empowerment:
Empowers owners with the knowledge of professional technicians, allowing them to make informed maintenance and repair decisions.
Engine Service:
Complete engine service and repair, including troubleshooting, rebuild procedures, and performance tuning for turbocharged engines.
Transmission Service:
Service and repair of both manual and automatic transmissions, including fluid changes, internal component repair, and diagnosis.
Braking System:
Detailed procedures for brake system maintenance, repair, and diagnostics, including disc and drum components, hydraulic system, and ABS if applicable to later models within the range.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive coverage of the electrical system, including detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting, and repair of lighting, ignition, charging, and control systems.
Suspension And Steering:
Detailed information on suspension components, alignment procedures, steering system service, and troubleshooting for both front and rear systems.
Fuel System:
In-depth coverage of fuel injection systems (e.g., Bosch LH-Jetronic), fuel pumps, injectors, lines, and associated components, including diagnosis and repair.
Cooling System:
Maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of the cooling system, including radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan systems.
Chassis And Body:
Procedures for bodywork, chassis adjustments, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and general body repairs.
Emission Control:
Information related to the emission control system, including components, diagnosis, and potential service adjustments.
HVAC:
Service and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including component diagnosis and refrigerant handling (where applicable).
Restraint Systems:
Information pertaining to seat belts, airbags (if equipped in later models within the range), and related safety systems.
Interior Components:
Details on the removal, installation, and repair of interior trim, seats, dashboard, and related components.
Drive Axle And Differential:
Service and repair of the drive axles, CV joints, and differential units, including fluid specifications and inspection.
General Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving common and complex vehicle issues.
Rebuild Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for rebuilding major components like the engine and transmission.
Tuning And Optimization:
Information for optimizing engine performance, potentially including turbocharger adjustments or fuel system tuning.
Depth:
Extremely detailed, covering everything from basic owner maintenance to complete professional-level repairs and diagnostics.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes advanced troubleshooting guides and electrical diagnostic procedures with wiring diagrams.
Illustrations:
Hundreds of illustrations, drawings, and photos to guide repair procedures, including enlarged inset views for detailed part examination.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact recommendations).
Timing Belt Interval:
Refer to manual for specific engine. The B230FT is a timing belt engine, usually recommended replacement every 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-96,000 km).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 API SG or higher recommended. Consult manual for specific viscosity and API rating.
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Volvo specifies certain types), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Atf:
Dexron II or III for automatic transmissions (AW71/AW72). Manual transmission fluid: SAE 75W-90 GL-5.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Problems:
Oil leaks (e.g., front and rear main seals, valve cover gasket), turbocharger issues (e.g., oil feed lines), aging electrical connectors, fuel pump relay failure, and potential for interior wear.
Idle Control Issues:
Issues with the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve or associated vacuum lines can lead to rough idling.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regularly inspect and replace vacuum hoses, check turbocharger oil supply and return lines for leaks or blockages, and maintain the cooling system.
Volvo Legacy:
Continuation of Volvo's long-standing tradition of building safe, durable, and reliable vehicles.
700 Series Introduction:
The 700 series was introduced in 1982, designed to be Volvo's flagship model, replacing the aging 240 series in the premium segment.
Turbo Variant Launch:
Turbocharged versions were introduced to offer enhanced performance, distinguishing the 'Turbo' models within the 740 and 760 lineups.
Production Period:
1982-1992 (for the 700 series overall), with the Turbo models predominantly covered in this 1982-1988 manual.
