1987 Volvo 240 DL review from North America
"Reliable beyond all reason"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Interior Blower Motor fan 90,000.
Had alternator rebuilt at 130,000.
Drivers side ball joint. 165,000.
Water pump around 175,000.
Drive shaft carrier bearing 185,000.
Transmission tail bushing replaced 185,000.
General comments?
I purchased this car back in 1992 because were going to have our first child and we felt we needed a 4 door. Little did I know that I was buying a car that would carry my family and I for over 11 years.
The car has been unbelievable in it's reliability. The car has never once left myself or anyone driving it stranded. Every morning it starts without fail. The car is not garaged and starts just fine in extreme temperatures.
The Volvo 240 is proof that reliable cars can be made, and made to run for many years.
At almost 220000 thousand miles, very little of the car is not original. In fact, most of the light bulbs in the car are the same since I purchased the car in 1992. Same radiator, engine, transmission, rear end, starter, etc. Even the clock has never failed to keep perfect time.
Seats are comfortable, and the ride is smooth.
If you are in the market for a car, the Volvo 240 is an excellent vehicle. Just be careful, because they tend to stay in the family. Yes, I plan on passing it on to our oldest daughter in a couple of years. Why not? She is the reason we bought the car, she might as well enjoy it.
Recommended Reviews:
![]() ![]() | More reliable and forgiving than your parents |
![]() ![]() | I wish Volvo still made the 240 |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1992 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | B230F Automatic |
| Performance marks | 4/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 51000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 214500 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet C10 |
| Date of Entry | 1st July, 2003 |



