I have a 1996 960 and its at 180000 kms. I have had it since 100,000. Im hearing different stories from different people on if the fluid should be changed. 3 have told me that right after a fluid change or within 10000 or so the transmission has gone down; where as other swear by changing it at regular intervals. I checked the fluid after a 200km drive and the fluid on the stick wasnt warm at all. Is this normal? And is there a filter on this transmission?

 

Here is the info from Volvo: http://new.volvocars.com/ownersdocs/...60_801.htm#8:4

 

The A/T fluid should be pretty hot after such a drive, I can't imagine it being "not warm at all", or what that would mean. I personally would change the ATF at regular intervals. Some, like VW, BMW, Saab, etc lately, well, since the mid '90s, are not calling for a fluid change which I think is the reason why so many of these cars have trans failures soon after they reach 100K miles. If you drain the fluid after a 100k, it's like black tar--crazy to think that it's still doing what it is supposed to do! The tales about trannies not liking a fluid change and failing soon after are just that--tall tales. Change that fluid!

 

Quick question for you. I've had my 960 for 10 months. It has 160,000 miles on it. I have been using synthetic transmission fluid in my Buick for some time. I switched it over at 125,000 miles. I also do the live flush as to get all the old fluid out of the torque converter. I want to switch my Volvo to synthetic transmission fluid. What are your thoughts on this?
Thanks