Launched in 1974, the Volvo 240 embodied the Swedish manufacturer's family-friendly, safety-first image for nearly twenty years. Designed to meet the new emissions regulations of the early 1970s, it introduced a catalytic converter, electronic fuel injection and compatibility with unleaded petrol. Across successive generations — a 6-cylinder diesel producing 82 bhp in 1977, then a Turbo version with 155 bhp in 1981 — the Volvo 240 gearbox evolved steadily until production ended in 1993. With EDEN BOITES, find out how to maintain, repair and replace yours.
The evolution of the Volvo 240 gearbox
True to its philosophy, the Swedish firm did not revolutionise the 240's transmission — it refined it incrementally. On the automatic side, the model moved from the 3-speed AW55 gearbox of the early years to the 4-speed AW70 gearbox introduced in the 1980s.
On the manual side, the 4-speed M40 gearbox gave way to the 4-speed M45, then to the 5-speed M51, the latter fitted notably to the 1983 Volvo 240 2.0 GL. Some manual gearboxes incorporate an overdrive system with its own gear set: activated by a button, it acts as an extra ratio that is particularly useful at a steady cruising speed.
Maintaining the Volvo 240 gearbox
The longevity of your gearbox depends first and foremost on your driving style: smooth, gentle inputs will limit premature wear on the components. A few simple checks complement this good habit.
- Regularly check the transmission oil level and top up with the correct grade if necessary;
- Stick to the recommended periodic oil change intervals, as the oil loses its properties as it becomes contaminated;
- On a gearbox fitted with overdrive, remember to clean the solenoid responsible for engaging it;
- Ask your mechanic for a visual inspection to catch any early signs of a fault before they develop.
Repairing your Volvo 240 gearbox
Most faults come down to three main causes: low transmission fluid, impact damage or wear over time. Low oil is often linked to a leak — check the ground beneath the car for reddish stains.
On the 240, the gearbox sits beneath the vehicle, at the rear of the engine, in keeping with its rear-wheel-drive layout. To inspect it, the car must be raised on a jack, secured on axle stands, all connections disconnected, the mountings removed, and the unit carefully extracted. The seals, gears and all components are then checked before any faulty part is replaced.
This work requires professional tooling and a high level of expertise: if carried out incorrectly, it can have serious consequences. Using a qualified mechanic is therefore strongly recommended.
Replacing your Volvo 240 gearbox with confidence
When wear is too advanced, a full replacement becomes necessary. To keep costs under control, opt for a reconditioned Volvo gearbox rather than a new part that can be difficult to source for an older model. You can also browse our full range of exchange gearboxes, compare with the Volvo 340/360 gearbox and the Volvo S70 gearbox, or read our guide on the differences between manual and automatic gearboxes.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Volvo 240 has an overdrive?
A dedicated button — often on the gear lever — and an extra ratio felt at a steady cruising speed are tell-tale signs of an overdrive. The gearbox code will confirm the exact configuration.
Is a reddish stain under the car a serious problem?
It generally indicates a transmission oil leak. Check the level promptly and have the source of the leak identified to avoid damaging the gearbox.
Is it better to repair or replace?
Localised wear can be repaired (seals, bearings). In the case of widespread wear, a reconditioned exchange gearbox offers the best balance of reliability and value.
Are gearboxes still available for this model?
Yes. Our technicians will track down the compatible reference and, if one cannot be found, can recondition your original unit.
Why choose EDEN BOITES?
As a specialist in reconditioned gearboxes, EDEN BOITES tests every unit before dispatch and backs it with a warranty of up to 24 months. We offer payment in up to 10 instalments, as well as delivery throughout France and the European Union, with lead times confirmed on quote. Our exchange gearboxes are covered by a satisfaction or money-back guarantee, subject to our Terms and Conditions. Browse our Volvo gearboxes now.
