Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Volvo
Model:
850
Codes
Platform:
Volvo P80 Platform
Generation
Generation:
First Generation
Introduction
Market Position
Positioning:
Premium European sedan/wagon offering robust engineering and Scandinavian design.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi 80/90, Saab 900/9000
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Safety, durability, and comfort focused. Notable for front-wheel drive and transverse engine layout.
Unique Selling Points:
Inline-5 engine, distinctive 'floating' dashboard design, excellent safety reputation.
Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Years Covered:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996
All Variants Covered:
Yes (including GLT, T5, R, Wagon, Sedan)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific count not provided, but typical for comprehensive factory-level manuals)
Manual Type
Type:
Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Digital Format:
PDF Download
Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain
Chassis:
Brake System, Suspension System, Steering System, Wheel Alignment
Electrical:
Full Electrical System Schematics, Wiring Diagrams, ECUs, Sensors, Lighting
Body And Interior:
Chassis, Bodywork, Interior Trim, Restraint Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Fluid Checks and Changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Disassembly and Reassembly, Transmission Overhaul, Component Replacement
Technical Depth
Depth:
Factory-level detail for DIY mechanics and professional technicians
Manual Specifications
File Format
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip/equivalent for potential compression
Compatibility:
Windows and Mac OS compatible
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution, printable pages
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code Common:
B5234, B5252, B5254
Configuration:
Inline 5-cylinder
Displacement Liters:
2.3L, 2.4L, 2.5L
Performance
Horsepower Range:
170 HP (NA) - 225 HP (Turbocharged T5/R)
Torque Range Lb-Ft:
206 lb-ft (NA) - 240 lb-ft (Turbocharged T5/R)
Fuel System
Induction Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Turbocharged (T5/R)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Management
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (various versions)
Transmission
Standard
Type Standard:
5-speed Manual (M56H)
Optional
Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic (AW30-43)
Features
AWD Availability:
Available on specific models (e.g., 850 AWD) with viscous coupling
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Volvo Approved ATF (e.g., AW-1 or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90
Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Inches:
104.9 inches
Length Inches Sedan:
186.5 inches
Length Inches Wagon:
189.3 inches
Width Inches:
69.9 inches
Height Inches:
55.9 inches (Sedan) / 56.3 inches (Wagon)
Weights
Curb Weight Lbs Approx:
3200 - 3600 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs Approx:
4500 - 4800 lbs
Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4-star (early models, varies by test)
Active Features
Brakes:
4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on later/performance models (TRACS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard, optional passenger airbag
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners (front), Side Impact Protection System (SIPS)
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory cassette or CD players with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Dynaudio).
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Trip Computer:
Available on some later models.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Timing Belt Replacement Miles:
Every 70,000 - 100,000 miles (critical for interference engine)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SH/SJ or higher)
Coolant Type:
Volvo Green Coolant or equivalent G48 (Ethylene Glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Failures:
Cracked ABS sensor rings, PCV system issues, starter motor failure, radiator leaks, dashboard 'snowstorm' (gauge cluster issues).
Engine Oil Sludge:
Can be an issue if maintenance intervals are not followed, especially on turbocharged models. Regular oil changes are crucial.
Tune Up Components
Spark Plugs:
Per Champion RC7PYCB or equivalent (check manual for specific variants)
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Volvo Philosophy:
Emphasis on safety, reliability, and robust engineering.
Model Evolution
Introduction Year:
1992 (North America)
Design Influence:
Marked a significant departure with a modern, more aerodynamic design and front-wheel drive.
Performance Variants:
Introduction of turbocharged T5 and performance-oriented 850 R models.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Ghent, Belgium; Kalmar, Sweden; Uddevalla, Sweden
Production End Year:
1997 (replaced by Volvo S70/V70)
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
Consistently received high safety ratings from various organizations for its era.