Hello there, the 740 is my first car and it has been very reliable and i am surprisingly happy with it, i say that because i didnt think id like volvo being as i was raised around american cars. but i do have some problems with it and heres the list, btw as the topic says i have a 1988 Volvo 740 GLE.

Major Problems:

1. Heavy steering wheel/general vibration when applying the brakes moderately at higher speeds, pushing all the way down usually lessens the problem. I believe it to be the bushings for my steering, although i havent had the brakes replaced since i got it but the brake pads are fine.

2. Just recently i have heard "knocking" on what seems to be in the general direction of the right front tire while im turning right slightly. I believe this may be my bushings getting worse than they already are or something.

3. My grandpa told me i need to replace the driveshaft centersupport assembly(bearings etc.) how would replacing this benefit my car? what are signs of it being shot?

4. My hatch seems to be vibrating very bad especially on bumpy roads and it gets to be rather loud and annoying. The hatch was loose(didnt shut all the way) untill recently(idk how it fixed itself) but the problem is still there. could it be the pins or the plastic thats against the door shaking? possibly the spare tire and tools shaking around? something i noticed about this was that when it starts shaking really loud when i look into my rear view mirror i can see the back seats shaking but i cant duplicate the noise or problem by moving them around myself.

Minor Problems:

1. Passenger window doesnt roll up correctly, theres a small gap allowing air into the car, is there anyway to adjust the way to goes up and down? I have power windows of course.

2. Driver side door doesnt want to open sometimes, its usually rare though. I shouldve already but i havent oiled the latch at all, will this help?


Thanks to anyone that can help me and give me any tips. comments/questions welcomed.

P.S I am thinking about getting all new struts/shocks/tires/brakes and an alignment for my car. i estimated that this will cost 500-700$ if someone can tell me if im in the general price range that would be great.

The shaking while braking is most likely warped front rotors, generally caused by riding your brakes for a extended amounts of time like long downhill situations. replacing rotors should get rid of the shaking. The noise in front end can be bad bushings I would check them. The bearings on your Drive shaft eliminate excess vibration shouldn't be a major procedure to replace.