1996 Volvo 850: brake failure

5 of the 192 complaints about the 1996 Volvo 850 describe brake failure.

owner complaints: 5
of this car's complaints: 3%
recalls: 0

Is there a fix? 1 service bulletin covers this area of the car. See below

Brake failure by model year

1997
2
1996
5
1995
1
1994
1
1993
2

What owners say

Filed Jul 7, 2004 · Brakes · NY

While applying the brakes the ABS brake light appeared on the dashboard, and remained on. Following that the brake pedal went to the floor. This caused a loss of braking power. Consumer was able to maintain control of the vehicle and drove it home. Consumer contacted the dealer, and the mechanic determined that the ABS modular unit needed replacement.

Filed Aug 5, 2003 · Brakes · 50,000 miles · MN

1996 850 volvo wagon ABS brake failure. The ABS brake computer periodically turns itself off (the ABS dash light comes on). This wouldn't be too bad because the brakes will work fine even if the ABS system malfunctions. Except when the system first malfunctions. There is a one to two second interval when you try to apply the brakes and the pedal fights you, vibrates, then allows normal braking (not to be confused with the ABS chatter that happens when it is working properly and a wheel is slipping). My ABS system turns off every time I drive the car, you're just never sure when. If it does when I'm braking, my braking is impaired for a couple seconds - that could be catastrophic! My volvo dealer says they've had a lot of problems with these "computers", but it doesn't affect safety. Furthermore, it costs $700 to fix! I believe this is a safety factor and I'm appalled that volvo (of all companies) doesn't issue a recall.

Filed Sep 28, 2000 · Brakes · ME

Brakes fail at low speeds; pedal goes all the way to the floor without stopping car. This is accompanied by a groaning sound. Persistent problem, reported repeatedly to two volvo dealer service shops since september 1997, without satisfactory repair or resolution.

Filed Sep 19, 1997 · Brakes · TX

Anti-lock brake failure.

Filed Jul 15, 1997 · Brakes · NC

Brake problems; intermittently when applying the brakes on any road conditions the pedal goes to the floor and the vehicle requires extended stopping distance. Vehicle has been in the shop for a total of (37) days for brake problems since feb of 96.