The Volvo 850, produced from 1991 to 1997, represents a significant chapter in Volvo's history, particularly the 1995 model year. As a premium compact executive car, it was distinguished by Volvo's hallmark safety focus, innovative transverse inline-5 engine, and a robust front-wheel-drive platform. Available in both Sedan (LS) and Wagon (LW) body styles, the 850 offered a range of gasoline engines from 2.0L to 2.5L, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Its engineering emphasized reliability and a unique driving experience, setting it apart from competitors like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. This comprehensive manual serves as an indispensable resource for maintaining and repairing the 1995 Volvo 850. It covers all gasoline engine variants (2.0L, 2.4L, 2.5L NA and Turbo) and both manual (M56) and automatic (AW50-42LE) transmissions. Within its over 1500 pages, you will find detailed procedures for engine mechanicals, electrical systems, suspension, steering, brakes, and bodywork. Essential maintenance tasks, diagnostic troubleshooting, and complete rebuild instructions are provided, ensuring owners and technicians have the factory-level detail needed for all service and repair needs. 🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Volvo Model: 850 Year: 1995 Codes Chassis Code: LS Vin Prefix: YV1LS 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Premium Compact Executive Car Target Audience: DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Volvo owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: BMW 3 Series (E36), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), Audi 80/A4 (B4/B5), Saab 900/9000 Key Features Design Philosophy: Volvo's signature safety focus, unique inline-5 engine, front-wheel-drive platform Manual Advantage: Provides factory-level detail for comprehensive DIY repairs and maintenance, covering all aspects of the vehicle 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Engine Coverage: All gasoline engines (2.0L, 2.4L, 2.5L NA and Turbo) Transmission Coverage: Manual and Automatic Transmissions (M56, AW50-42LE) Body Styles Covered: Sedan (LS), Wagon (LW) Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Full Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic) Engine Electrical: Ignition system, starter, alternator, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics and wiring diagrams Transmission: Manual transmission repair (clutch, gears, synchronizers), automatic transmission overhaul (valve body, torque converter, solenoids) Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), power steering system, wheel alignment specifications Brakes: Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, ABS system components and diagnostics) Electrical System: Full vehicle wiring diagrams, lighting, wipers, power windows, central locking, HVAC controls, instrument cluster, SRS airbag system Body And Interior: Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seats, dashboard, doors, glass replacement Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid replacement, air filter replacement Diagnostic Procedures: Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, component testing procedures Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for major component repairs and replacements (engine, transmission, brakes, suspension) Rebuild Procedures: Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines and transmissions Restoration Guidance: Information applicable to refurbishing and restoring worn components Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls Diagnostic Focus: Detailed diagnostics including sensor testing and electrical system troubleshooting 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchable Text: Yes Printable: Yes Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution scans of original diagrams and photos Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Common: B5254F (2.5L 10v), B5254S (2.5L 20v), B5234FS (2.3L 20v Turbo) Displacement Liters: 2.0, 2.4, 2.5 Configuration: Inline 5-cylinder Performance Horsepower Range: 115-222 hp (depending on variant) Torque Range: 170-300 Nm (depending on variant) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack ignition Engine Management ECU Type: Bosch Motronic (e.g., M1.8, M2.8) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual (M56H) Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic (AW50-42LE) Features Transmission Features: Front-wheel drive (FWD) Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: Volvo P/N 1161540-8 (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON) Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Mm: 2649 Length Mm: 4786 (Sedan), 4781 (Wagon) Width Mm: 1750 Height Mm: 1420 (Sedan), 1453 (Wagon) Weights Curb Weight Kg: 1400-1550 (approx.) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4/5 Stars (1995 model year testing) Active Features Active Safety: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS - optional on some models) Passive Features Passive Safety: Side Impact Protection System (SIPS), whiplash protection seats (WHIPS), Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags (driver and passenger) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Original Volvo radio/cassette player (optional CD player), analog climate controls Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Cruise control, limited availability of Traction Control System (TCS) Connectivity Connectivity Features: Basic, primarily focused on...
The Volvo 850, produced from 1991 to 1997, represents a significant chapter in Volvo's history, particularly the 1995 model year. As a premium compact executive car, it was distinguished by Volvo's hallmark safety focus, innovative transverse inline-5 engine, and a robust front-wheel-drive platform. Available in both Sedan (LS) and Wagon (LW) body styles, the 850 offered a range of gasoline engines from 2.0L to 2.5L, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Its engineering emphasized reliability and a unique driving experience, setting it apart from competitors like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
This comprehensive manual serves as an indispensable resource for maintaining and repairing the 1995 Volvo 850. It covers all gasoline engine variants (2.0L, 2.4L, 2.5L NA and Turbo) and both manual (M56) and automatic (AW50-42LE) transmissions. Within its over 1500 pages, you will find detailed procedures for engine mechanicals, electrical systems, suspension, steering, brakes, and bodywork. Essential maintenance tasks, diagnostic troubleshooting, and complete rebuild instructions are provided, ensuring owners and technicians have the factory-level detail needed for all service and repair needs.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS - optional on some models)
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
Side Impact Protection System (SIPS), whiplash protection seats (WHIPS), Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags (driver and passenger)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Original Volvo radio/cassette player (optional CD player), analog climate controls
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, limited availability of Traction Control System (TCS)
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Basic, primarily focused on audio and vehicle controls, no advanced smartphone integration
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical to follow for interference engine)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
API SJ or higher, Viscosity 5W-30 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for specific engine variant)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.0-5.5 liters (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Volvo VCS (Volvo Coolant System) or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol based coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Problems Engine:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), oil leaks (crankshaft seals, valve cover gasket), radiator fan relay failure, distributor cap/rotor wear (on some early models)