🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Volvo

Model:

940

Year:

1994

Chassis Codes:

940, 940SE, 940GLE, 940Turbo

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon (rear-wheel drive)

Volvo Philosophy:

Emphasis on safety, durability, and comfort.

Competitors:

BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Saab 900.

Safety Emphasis:

Renowned for Volvo's characteristic safety cage, impact-absorbing crumple zones, and robust construction.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) platform offering balanced handling.

Reliability:

Generally regarded as a robust and long-lasting vehicle with proper maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Mechanical, Electrical, Body & Chassis Systems

Diagnostic Coverage:

Engine Management, ABS, Airbag Systems (where applicable)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Comprehensive Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Software Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valvetrain, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, timing belt/chain replacement, engine diagnostics.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (LH-Jetronic), ignition system, emissions control systems, oxygen sensors, EGR, fuel pump, injectors, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Transmission Manual:

M46, M47, M90 gearboxes; clutch replacement, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage adjustments, diagnostic procedures.

Transmission Automatic:

AW71, AW72, AW72L gearboxes; fluid and filter changes, torque converter, valve body diagnosis, shift control, general overhaul procedures.

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs; brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper overhaul, pad and rotor replacement, parking brake adjustment, ABS (if equipped).

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link/live axle; shock absorber replacement, spring replacement, control arm bushings, ball joint replacement, wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system; fluid specifications, pump, rack and pinion overhaul, tie rod end replacement, steering column adjustments.

Electrical System:

12V negative ground system; battery specifications, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses and relays, wiring diagrams.

Climate Control:

HVAC system; blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant, evaporator, condenser, dashboard controls, ducting.

Body And Interior:

Door mechanisms, window regulators, seat adjustments, dashboard removal, interior trim, body panel repair, rust prevention, panel gap specifications.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and filter changes, coolant flush, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, illustrated instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and color-coded electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive: covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including complex diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF; may require specific software viewer if proprietary.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations.

Binding Type:

N/A (Software Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

B230F, B230FB (non-turbo), B230FT (turbo)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8-valve (B230F/FB) or 16-valve (later models, less common in 940)

Displacement:

2.3 Liters (2316 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

96.0 mm x 80.0 mm

Horsepower Non Turbo:

Approx. 114 hp @ 4800 rpm (B230F)

Torque Non Turbo:

Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (B230F)

Horsepower Turbo:

Approx. 162 hp @ 4800 rpm (B230FT - typically for 940 Turbo models)

Torque Turbo:

Approx. 185 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (B230FT)

Fuel Injection:

Bosch LH-Jetronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Timing Belt Intervals:

Refer to manual for specific interval; generally long-life design, but inspection is recommended.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

M47 5-speed Manual Transmission (common on non-turbo)

Optional Transmission:

AW71/AW72 4-speed Automatic Transmission with Overdrive (common)

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter, electronically controlled (later models may have more advanced control).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, consult manual for specific Volvo recommendation)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III / Mercon compatible fluid (Volvo PN 1161540-8 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 188.2 inches (4780 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

Approx. 56.5 inches (1435 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 109.1 inches (2770 mm)

Curb Weight Sedan:

Approx. 3200-3400 lbs (1450-1540 kg)

Curb Weight Wagon:

Approx. 3350-3550 lbs (1520-1610 kg)

Cargo Volume Wagon:

Approx. 36.5 cu ft (rear seats up), 71.4 cu ft (rear seats folded)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

While specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for 1994 are not readily available in a simple format, Volvo's reputation for safety was paramount. The 940 was built with a strong emphasis on passive safety features.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on many models, especially higher trims and Turbo variants.

Structural Integrity:

Reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing steering column, side-impact protection beams.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for all occupants, often with pre-tensioners.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard on most 1994 models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with premium sound system options and amplifier.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4-6 speakers depending on trim level and options.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, utilizing vacuum-actuated or electronic control.

Power Windows Locks:

Standard power windows and door locks on most models.

Connectivity Features:

None beyond the factory radio and basic electrical systems; no modern Bluetooth, USB, or infotainment screens.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using appropriate Volvo specifications).

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (Volvo PN 1271601 or equivalent).

Fuel Filter:

Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles (Volvo PN 1275161-9 or equivalent).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (e.g., Bosch WRF75P or equivalent, consult manual for specific type).

Engine Oil:

API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity and API rating, Volvo PN 1161530-0 or equivalent)

Coolant:

Volvo Premium Coolant (Green) or equivalent; 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 6.7 quarts.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Volvo PN 31227828 or equivalent)

Oil Leaks:

Common areas include valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, front and rear main seals due to age and material degradation.

Fuel Pump Reliability:

Fuel pumps can be a wear item; symptom is hard starting or failure to start.

Cruise Control Issues:

Vacuum hose leaks or faulty cruise control modules can cause intermittent or failed operation.

Rear Main Seal:

A common, but labor-intensive, repair item causing significant oil leaks.

Dashboard Cracking:

The vinyl dashboard material can be prone to cracking from sun exposure over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Volvo Legacy:

Volvo has a long-standing reputation for safety, durability, and reliability since its founding in 1927.

940 Lineage:

The 940 is part of Volvo's 900 series, which succeeded the 700 series. It built upon the robust RWD platform and conservative design principles of its predecessors.

Design Era:

Represents Volvo's late 80s/early 90s styling, characterized by a boxy but functional aesthetic.

Production Years:

1990-1998

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Sweden (Torslanda, Uddevalla).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Volvo consistently received accolades for safety during this era, often cited by insurance industry organizations and automotive journalists for its protective features. Specific named awards for the 940 are less documented than general Volvo safety reputation.