Complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | vs. typical* | Recalls | Top problem | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 | 20 | −60% | — | Engine | Good |
| 1996 | 60 | 1.5× | — | Brake | Caution |
| 1995 | 57 | 1.4× | 1 | Engine | Caution |
* Complaints compared with the median 960 year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.
Most common Volvo 960 problems
Latest Volvo 960 recalls
Air bags › Frontal
The driver's side air bag module May not properly deploy.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag module.
Frequently asked questions
What years of the Volvo 960 should you avoid?
1996 and 1995 — these years have the most complaints relative to other 960 years at the same age, led by brakes problems in the 1996.
What is the best year for the Volvo 960?
1997 has the fewest complaints compared with other 960 years at the same age. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.
What are the most common Volvo 960 problems?
Across all years, owners report the most problems with the engine & cooling (25), fuel & propulsion system (21) and brakes (21). Engine complaints peak in the 1995 model year.
How many recalls has the Volvo 960 had?
1 recall across 1995–1997. The model year with the most is 1995.
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.