Market Position:
The Volvo 940 was positioned as a premium, safety-conscious, and durable mid-size luxury sedan and wagon. It appealed to buyers prioritizing build quality, passenger comfort, and a classic, understated European design over sporty performance.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, BMW E34 5 Series, Audi V8 Quattro (though the 940 was positioned slightly below these in price and performance), and American luxury sedans such as the Cadillac DeVille and Lincoln Town Car.
Key Features:
Renowned Volvo safety features (impact zones, reinforced cabin), robust mechanicals, comfortable and spacious interior, rear-wheel-drive platform, characteristic Scandinavian design.
Systems Covered:
Dashboard controls and indicators, climate control system, audio system, lighting, seats and restraints, windows and mirrors, locks and security, fuel and engine operation, transmission operation, braking system, steering system, suspension, wheels and tires, fluid checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), basic electrical system components, exterior and interior features, driving techniques, safety features.
Procedures Included:
Checking fluid levels, tire inflation, jump-starting, changing a flat tire, replacing wiper blades, operating climate control, using cruise control (if equipped), resetting service reminders, basic interior/exterior adjustments, safe driving practices.
Technical Depth:
Focuses on user-level understanding and basic operational maintenance. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typically found in a service manual.
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated Inline-4 (B230F).
Engine Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2316 cc).
Engine Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 80.0 mm.
Engine Compression Ratio:
8.7:1
Horsepower:
114 hp @ 5000 rpm (for B230F).
Torque:
190 Nm (140 lb-ft) @ 2500 rpm (for B230F).
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection (Electronic Fuel Injection - EFI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended).
Engine Code Common:
B230F
Engine Design:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8 valves.
Transmission Type Standard:
AW71 (4-speed Automatic Transmission).
Transmission Type Optional:
M90 (5-speed Manual Transmission).
Automatic Transmission Features:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy, overdrive gear.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Volvo's recommended ATF (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent). Capacity: Approx. 3.5-4.0 liters for a drain and fill.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil, viscosity SAE 75W-90. Capacity: Approx. 2.3 liters.
Length:
4785 mm (188.4 inches) for Sedan, 4965 mm (195.5 inches) for Wagon.
Width:
1750 mm (68.9 inches).
Height:
1410 mm (55.5 inches) for Sedan, 1450 mm (57.1 inches) for Wagon.
Wheelbase:
2770 mm (109.1 inches).
Seating Capacity:
5 passengers.
Interior Volume:
Spacious cabin characteristic of Volvo's design philosophy.
Cargo Volume Sedan:
Significant trunk space.
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Excellent cargo capacity with rear seats folded down.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1400-1550 kg (3086-3417 lbs) depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 2000-2150 kg.
Crash Test Performance:
While specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for 1994 models are harder to pinpoint precisely, Volvo's reputation for safety was exceptionally high. The 940 featured a very strong passenger cell and advanced (for its time) passive safety systems.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - often standard or optional depending on trim.
Passive Safety Features:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners (front), side-impact protection bars (B-pillar and doors), reinforced roof structure, crumple zones (front and rear), head restraints, adjustable steering column.
Child Seat Anchors:
Provision for child seat installation, likely using seatbelts. ISOFIX was not standard in this era.
Headlight Type:
Halogen headlights, often with integrated fog lights in the bumper on higher trims.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player, often with optional CD player. Speakers typically in doors and rear parcel shelf. Basic tone controls and balance/fader adjustments.
User Interface:
Simple, analog controls for climate and audio. Dashboard layout prioritizes clarity and functionality.
Cruise Control:
Standard on many models, operated by a stalk on the steering column.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Antenna for radio reception. Power antenna often present.
Climate Control Type:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (ACC) with rotary knobs or buttons and air conditioning.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 12,000 km / 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for exact recommendation.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles for standard plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial maintenance item. For the B230 engine (interference), replacement is recommended every 50,000-60,000 miles or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG, SF, or SH. Viscosity: 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-30, or 10W-40 depending on climate. Capacity: Approx. 4.7 liters (5 US quarts) with filter.
Coolant Specification:
Volvo's green antifreeze or equivalent (ethylene glycol based). Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 8.5-9.5 liters.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III.
Common Issues:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, ignition coil failure, fuel pump failure, idle air control valve problems, radiator and coolant hose leaks, rear main crankshaft seal leaks, Volvo's 'flame trap' ventilation system can become clogged, leading to oil leaks and poor running. Seat heater elements can fail. ABS warning light issues are relatively common, often due to wheel speed sensor or ABS module faults.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Commonly: Volvo P/N 1275810, Fram PH3506, Bosch 3422, Mann W917.
Air Filter Part Number:
Commonly: Volvo P/N 1330386, Mann C35161.
Timing Belt Kit Part Number:
Volvo P/N 1389998 (includes belt, tensioner, idler pulley).
Brand Philosophy:
Volvo has a long-standing reputation for safety, durability, and utilitarian design, stemming from its Swedish roots. The brand emphasized practical engineering and occupant protection.
Platform Heritage:
The 940 is an evolution of the rear-wheel-drive 740 and 760 series, sharing many components and the robust chassis design. It represented Volvo's final generation of RWD sedans before transitioning to FWD platforms.
Production Years Global:
1990-1998.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Sweden (Torslanda and Uddevalla), but also some production in other Volvo plants globally.
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Station Wagon (often referred to as 'Estate').
Industry Accolades:
While the 940 itself may not have specific 'Car of the Year' awards, it was consistently recognized for its durability, safety, and value in its segment. Volvo vehicles of this era were frequently cited in consumer reports for reliability and longevity.
Consumer Ratings:
Highly rated by many automotive publications for build quality and dependability. Known for its ability to achieve high mileage with proper maintenance.
