1985 Volvo 240
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 1 |
| 1982 | 2 |
| 1983 | 6 |
| 1984 | 5 |
| 1985 | 4 |
| 1986 | 12 |
| 1987 | 6 |
| 1988 | 10 |
| 1989 | 17 |
| 1990 | 20 |
| 1991 | 17 |
| 1992 | 22 |
| 1993 | 14 |
| 1994 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 4 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
WHILE BACKING OUT, WITH FOOT APPLIED TO BRAKE, WITHOUT PRESSING GAS, SUDDENLY ENGINE SURGED THEN ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL, HITTING A HOUSE, IN REVERSE. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19960319
1 of 4 total reports mentions: service brakes, hydraulic.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: service brakes, hydraulic.
Show complaint excerpts
REPLACED BRAKE PAD.
NHTSA ODI report, 19951102
1 of 4 total reports mentions: power train.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
SAFETY TIMELINE
SUDDEN ACCELERATION
IN THE EVENT OF A LOW SPEED FRONTAL IMPACT, ENGINE MOVEMENT COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE CABLE SLEEVE TO BE PULLED OUT OF THE ADJUSTING FITTING AND NOT RETURN TO ITS ORIGINAL POSITION OR
Remedy: REPLACE THROTTLE CABLES.
Campaign 86V129000 — check if this car was fixed
FUEL SYSTEM RELIABILITY
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1985 Volvo 240 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes, hydraulic issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes, hydraulic issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 86V129000 (vehicle speed control) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1985 Volvo 240 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1985 Volvo 240?
The most-reported component is vehicle speed control, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1985 Volvo 240 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.