1986 Volvo 240 DL review from North America

Had to do timing belt, water pump, timing tensioner, and seals on front of engine at 110000 miles. About $100. All work done by writer of this.

Replaced cheap plastic radiator with a three row brass unit (about $200), still have cheap one up on shelf.

Solenoid on OD automatic went out at 120000 miles, got one from junk yard for $2.00, hard to get to on trans though.

Relay for OD automatic burned out because wiring insulation to trans solenoid broke down and shorted against trans, again relay from junkyard and some new wiring fixed problem.

Alternator went out at 135,000 miles, had original rebuilt, cost $80.00.

Air Flow Meter failed at 150,000 miles (car still ran, but poorly), replaced with a bosch rebuilt unit.

Had problems with squealing brakes, solved (98%) with ceramic pads.

You HAVE TO replace the pcv flametrap every 30000 miles or so or crankcase pressure will cause oil leaks due to clogged flametrap!

Good car! Bought to replace two honda civics we had. We did not feel safe in the hondas. We feel very safe in these cars. We also had a 1979 volvo 265 wagon with 325,000 miles, but it blew a head gasket and it's age and mileage did not justify repair. It ran great up until then though and had never been rebuilt! We expect the same service from our 1986 volvo. It is not very quick, it used to be quicker, but engine is a little tired, still runs great though. Always starts on the coldest mornings on first cranking, although may stumble and have to be restarted occasionally. My wife loves this car, she is a teacher and hauls all her stuff in it. I feel confident and comfortable with her driving it. I sleep well at night not worrying about the safety of her car as I did with the civics. This car is very comfortable in the front seats, should have cup holders, back seat OK, have slept in the back, not bad.