Brake complaints by model year
Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (service brakes, ABS, rotors and pads, parking brake).
Mileage when the problem started
What owners report
1997 Volvo 850. The ABS and tracs lights are on approx. 90% of the time while driving vehicle. When lights are on, brake pedal is very soft and stopping distance is significantly increased. When lights are off, brake pedal gets firmer after pumping and braking distance is reduced. This problem has gotten progressively worse over the past 24 months. Dealer and independent mechanic were able to determine cause or correct the problem during repeated visits. Ineffective brakes and loss of steering control while braking contributed to a serious accident involving the vehicle and a semi-trailer.
I have a 1997 Volvo 850r that is currently experiencing problems with the ABS/tracs system - the lights came on for the ABS and the tracs system. In researching my problem it has become apparent that the 850 Volvo is known for failures to its ABS module and the entire braking system in general. The amount of information that I have been able to find on this common problem leads me to believe that this should be a recalled item. Apparently Volvo now offers a new and improved ABS control module (that they charge dearly for) because of the numerous problems and replacements of the old units. Volvo should bear the expense of replacing these units. This is clearly a safety issue. When the ABS light is on, the ABS is not functional. The failure also causes intermittent pulsation in the brakes. The shear number of these instances leads me to believe that it is an obvious design flaw. …
The ABS and tracs off idiot lamps turn on and off intermittently in my 850. I can be driving around on dry pavement with very little throttle input, and the traction control will engage (audible whirring of the ABS modulator pump and stiff pulsating brake pedal - quickly applied to confirm my suspicion). This will light the lamps. Likewise, I can be braking on a dry surface at a low decel, and the ABS will engage. This will also light the lamps and shut off ABS/tracs. After a while, the lights will turn off, and ABS and tracs function normally. This happens about once or twice a day since the first incident on 7/11/03. I've given an estimate number in the field below. Furthermore, the speedometer functions intermittently. I've traced this issue back to a faulty connection between the vehicle wiring harness and the ABS controller. …
1996 850 Volvo wagon ABS brake failure. The ABS brake computer periodically turns itself off (the ABS dash light comes on). This wouldn't be too bad because the brakes will work fine even if the ABS system malfunctions. Except when the system first malfunctions. There is a one to two second interval when you try to apply the brakes and the pedal fights you, vibrates, then allows normal braking (not to be confused with the ABS chatter that happens when it is working properly and a wheel is slipping). My ABS system turns off every time I drive the car, you're just never sure when. If it does when I'm braking, my braking is impaired for a couple seconds - that could be catastrophic! My Volvo dealer says they've had a lot of problems with these "computers", but it doesn't affect safety. Furthermore, it costs $700 to fix! …
Volvo 850 anti-lock brake system hydraulic modulator pump developed a significant fluid leak (3-6 oz per day, or greater). This part is non-repairable and must be replaced at great cost (quoted $1900). As a key brake system component, failure of this part May cause (1) significant loss of brake function due to air & moisture intrusion into the brake lines, (2) non-functioning brakes when greater amounts of fluid are suddenly lost, and/or (3) fire danger, when dripping brake fluid contacts nearby exhaust manifold components.
. I have spent $2200 in the last 3 months while herb gordon tries to figure out the problem with the brakes. They have replaced the brake master cylinder, cleaned and resealed the brake calipers and now as a last resort are replacing the internal ABS system, which finally fixed the problem. Ignition switch replaced, the windshield wiper bolts came loose causing the windshield wipers to stop in the middle of driving on a highway in the rain, air sensors and oxygen sensors seem to need replacing at least twice a year.
Frequently asked questions
Which Volvo 850 years have brake problems?
By NHTSA complaints, the 1996 (55), 1997 (33) and 1995 (11) model years. Brake complaints make up 29% of all complaints for the 1996.
Is there a recall for Volvo 850 brake problems?
No. NHTSA lists no brakes recall for any Volvo 850 model year. A widespread problem may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin, so ask a dealer.
At what mileage do Volvo 850 brake problems start?
Across all years, half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 82,000 miles; 6% happened before 50,000 miles.
What part fails most often?
Owners most often name the antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip (44 mentions), followed by the antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › control unit/module (16).
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.