Volvo 940/960 1990-1998: How to Remove the Bumpers

The Volvo 940 and 960 represent the final chapter in the classic rear-wheel-drive, body-on-frame lineage of the Swedish automaker. Produced between 1990 and 1998, these models marked the pinnacle of Volvo's era of simple, reliable, and long-lasting vehicles.

Body Types

Both models were available in two configurations:

  • Sedan (944/964) - A classic four-door design with balanced proportions and spacious interior

  • Station Wagon (945/965) - A practical variant featuring an expanded cargo area and vertical tailgate. The Volvo 900-series wagons were particularly prized for their utility and functionality.

Interestingly, the 940/960 wagons were nearly identical in appearance to their predecessor, the Volvo 740, but featured more modern components.

Bumper Material (may vary):
Polypropylene plus ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer. Marked >PP/EPDM<.

Front Bumper Removal

The bumper comes off with its aluminum reinforcement. Two methods:

  1. Remove two nuts on each side (marked with red arrows) securing the impact absorbers to the reinforcement. With an assistant, grip the sides and slide the front bumper forward off its guide channels in the fenders.

  2. Remove two bolts and one nut on each side (marked with arrows) securing the impact absorbers to the body. With help, remove the front bumper complete with impact absorbers by sliding it forward off the fender guides.

front bumper mounting points Volvo 940/960 1990-1998

Front Bumper Mounting Diagram Volvo 940/960 1990-1998

Rear Bumper Removal

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

The bumper detaches with its aluminum reinforcement. Two approaches:

  1. From underneath, remove two nuts per side (red arrows) securing impact absorbers to the reinforcement. With assistance, pull the rear bumper backward off its guide channels.

  2. Remove two bolts (underbody) and one nut (inside trunk) per side (arrows) securing impact absorbers to the body. With help, remove the rear bumper assembly complete with absorbers by sliding it off the guides.

rear bumper mounting locations Volvo 940/960 1990-1998

Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram Volvo 940/960 1990-1998

Model Overview

The 940 utilized an updated 740-series platform with proven powertrains:

  • Gasoline engines: 2.0L (116hp), 2.3L (131-140hp), turbocharged 2.3L (165-200hp)

  • Diesel option: 2.4L (VW D24, 109hp)

Introduced in 1990, the more premium 960 featured:

  • Inline-six engines (2.5L/170hp → 3.0L/204hp)

  • Modular V6 from 1994 (2.9L/190hp)

  • Upgraded suspension and luxury interior appointments

These models earned legendary reliability status, particularly naturally-aspirated versions, with many examples exceeding 500,000 km without major repairs.

Notable Facts

  • Last RWD Volvos: The 940/960 concluded Volvo's rear-drive era before FWD S90/V90 models

  • Safety Pioneers: Featured reinforced structures, airbags (from 1994), and ABS with top crash test ratings

  • Executive Choice: The 960 was favored by European dignitaries for its understated prestige

  • Unexpected Performance: 940 Turbos occasionally campaigned in rally/drag racing due to B230FT engine toughness

  • Wagon Legacy: 945/965 models became utilitarian icons for families and emergency services

Conclusion

The 940/960 embody Swedish automotive excellence - durable, safe, and engineered for longevity. While not performance-oriented, they delivered decades of dependable service. Today, collectors value these final rear-drive Volvos for their straightforward mechanics and Scandinavian character. For those seeking a multi-decade vehicle, the 900-series remains a compelling choice.