Hi, I have recently acquired a Volvo 240, 1991 with about 120,000 miles on it. It has a 4 cylinder engine and an automatic transmission. My problem is that once the car gets to about 40 miles per hour, it is difficult to get it to accelerate any higher. Also, when going up hills, even small ones, the car's speed drops about 10mph and won't go any higher. Driving the Volvo around under 40mph, it feels extremely smooth and has good pick-up from a dead stop. I should also mention that the car feels pretty "gutless" at higher speeds.

I was wondering if anyone could help me understand what the problem is. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

 

new air filter?

how is the maintenance history on the car?

 

I would start with a complete tune up,plugs,plug wires,dist cap,rotor button,fuel filter,and a air filter.After you have done this post back with your results.



Dan

 

How many RPM's are you getting out of the car before it shifts in first when you floor it?

 

the catalytic convertor as it starts to fall apart and create big back pressure can create a very similar problem.

 

Thanks for the feedback! I should also say that the previous owner spent a lot of money at the Volvo dealership to fix the car. There was a problem (I'm not sure what) that the dealership fixed, but ever since it has felt gutless. The catalytic converter was, according to the dealership, replaced and the car had a full tune up. It was taken back the next week because it stalled a few times, but the mechanics said it ran fine for them, most likely because the dealership was in the city and test drive probably never went above 40mph. A friend suggested that the timing belt might be off, but, once again, the dealership had the mechanic that worked on it recheck it (which I have heard isn't wise to have the same mechanic check their work) and said it was fine. The car sat for two years after the incident, and now I am trying to get it running better. Hopefully that helps clarify my position.