Volvo 244 1978, 245 1978 Owner Manual
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
1 9 7 8
VOLVO
242, 244, 245
Notice to Owner: Your Volvo has been built to comply with all American safety and anti-pollution
regulations. Evidence of this can be verified from the certification label on the left wheel housing in the
engine compartment. For further information regarding these regulations, please contact your local
dealer.
Notice: All information, illustrations and specifications contained in this manual are based on the latest
product information available at the time of publication.
Volvo reserves the right to make model changes at any time, or to change specifications or design,
without notice and without incurring obligation.
Contents
(Index see page
87)
DESCRIPTION Page
General Information 2
Keys 3
Instruments and controls 4
Instruments 6
Warning lights 7
Ignition switch, parking brake 8
Lighting 9
Turn signals 10
Windshield wipers 11
Clock, cigarette lighter, ash tray 12
Tailgate window wiper, electrically heated rear window, hazard warning
flasher
13
Heating and ventilation 14
Air conditioning 16
Radios, AM-FM-FM stereo CB/tape players 17
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_00.htm (1 of 4)12/22/2006 10:11:23 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Front seats 18
Seat belts 20
Doors and locks 22
Rear doors, trunk lid 23
Hood 24
Vent windows, Rear/side view mirrors 25
Interior light, sun roof, fuel tank cap 26
Rear seat, model 245 27
Tailgate, model 245 28
Cargo compartment, model 245 29
STARTING AND DRIVING
Service inspection 30
Break in period 31
Starting the engine 32
Gear shift positions 33
Automatic transmission 34
Emergency towing 36
Towing information 37
Trailer hauling 38
Brake system 39
Catalytic converter 40
MAINTENANCE SERVICE
Maintenance services 41
Gas station checks 42
Engine B21F 43
Servicing 44
Engine oil 48
Cooling system 49
Emission control system 50
Transmission oil 56
Rear axle, power steering, brake fluid 57
Lubrication 58
Coolant 59
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_00.htm (2 of 4)12/22/2006 10:11:23 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Replacing bulbs 60
Fuses 64
Wheels and tires 65
Wheel changing 66
Space saver spare wheel (242 GT) 68
Washing, cleaning, anti-rust treatment 69
Paint touch-up 70
Long distance trips 72
Cold weather 73
Service diagnosis 75
Specifications 80
Volvo service manuals 86
Index 87
pg. 2 General Information
Before moving from one country to another it is recommended to check with the Department of Motor
Vehicles as emissions and other vehicle regulations may be different.
pg. 3 Keys
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_00.htm (3 of 4)12/22/2006 10:11:23 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Write the key number codes on the inside of the front cover of this Manual (See tag attached to
plastic key ring).
In the event the original keys are lost, duplicates may be ordered from your Volvo dealer.
Top of Page
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_00.htm (4 of 4)12/22/2006 10:11:23 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
1 9 7 8
VOLVO
242, 244, 245
pg. 4 Instruments and controls
pg. 5 Instruments and controls
See page
1 Defroster outlet, side window
14
2 Fresh air outlet
15
3 Headlights, parking lights
9
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (1 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
4 Turn signals
10
5 Horn -
6 Instruments
6
7 Ignition switch/steering wheel lock
8
8 Wiper/washer
11
9 Fresh air outlet
15
10 Clock
12
11 Fresh air outlet
15
12 Fuse box
64
13 Hood release handle
24
14 Instrument lights
9
15 Heating and ventilation
14
16 Cigarette lighter
12
17 Tail gate window wiper (245 model) or
13
Fog lights (242 GT) or
9
18 Electrically heated rear window
13
19 Ash tray
12
20 Air conditioning
16
21 Hazard warning flasher
13
22 Seat belt reminder light
20
The pages in this section provide a detailed description of the vehicle's instruments and controls.
Note that vehicles may be equipped differently depending on special legal requirements, etc.
pg. 6 Instruments
A Odometer
Total mileage reading.
B Speedometer
C Left turn signal indicator (green)
D Parking brake reminder light (red)
E High beam indicator (blue)
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (2 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
F Brake failure warning light (red)
G Right turn signal indicator (green)
H Oil pressure warning light (red)
I Alternator warning light (red)
J Trip odometer
(last figure represents 1/10 mile)
K Trip odometer reset knob
Push in to reset
L Reminder light, EGR Service
M Tachometer (certain models)
Reads thousands of engine rpm.
Orange range for momentary use, during acceleration.
Red prohibited range.
N Bulb failure warning light (yellow)
O Temperature gauge
The gauge pointer should remain inside the green range during normal operation.
If the pointer enters the red range repeatedly, check coolant level and fan belt tension. (See sections
titled "Cooling system and Coolant")
P Overdrive indicator light (green)
Lights when overdrive is engaged.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (3 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Q Fuel gauge
The fuel tank capacity is approx. 60 liters=15.8 US gals/13.2 Imp. gals
F Full
1/2
R Reserve
O Empty
The red range from R to O represents approx. 8 liters=2.1 US gals/1.8 Imp. gals.
pg. 7 Warning lights
The warning lights described on this page should never be on
when driving
When the ignition key is turned on, and before the engine starts, all of the warning lights should be on to
test the function of the bulbs. Should a light not go off after the engine has started, the system indicated
should be inspected. (However, the parking brake reminder light will not go off until the parking brake
is fully released.)
D Parking brake reminder light (red)
This light will be on when the parking brake (hand brake) is applied. The parking brake lever is situated
between the front seats.
F Brake failure warning light (red)
If the light comes on while driving and the brake pedal can be depressed further than normal, it is an
indication that one of the brake circuits is not functioning. Proceed cautiously to a Volvo dealer for an
inspection of the brake system.
H Oil pressure warning light (red)
If the light comes on during driving, the oil pressure is too low. Stop the engine immediately and check
the engine oil level. See section titled "Engine Oil".
After hard driving, the light will come on occasionally when the engine is idling. This is normal,
provided it goes off when the engine speed is increased.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (4 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
I Alternator warning light (red)
If the light comes on while the engine is running, check the tension of the alternator drive belt as soon as
possible. (See section titled "Cooling system".)
NOTE:
This warning light is illuminated if the alternator is not charging. However, oil pressure, alternator,
parking brake, brake failure, EGR, and bulb failure will be illuminated at the same time due to the
design of the system.
L EGR service reminder light (red)
If the vehicle is equipped with exhaust gas recirculation, this light will come on at 15,000 mile (25,000
km) intervals, as required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This is a reminder to have the
EGR valve serviced. The light will stay on until reset by servicing dealer.
N Bulb failure warning light (yellow)
The light will come on if any of the following bulbs are defective:
one of the lower beams
one of the tail lights
one of the license plate lights
one of the brake lights (when the brake pedal is depressed).
See section on "Replacing Bulbs".
pg. 8 Ignition switch, parking brake
Ignition switch/steering wheel lock
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (5 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
The steering wheel lock might be under tension when the car is parked. Turn the steering wheel slightly
to free the ignition key.
A buzzer will sound if the ignition key is in the ignition lock and the front door on the driver's side is
open.
The buzzer goes off when the front door is closed.
Parking brake (hand brake)
The lever is situated between the front seats. The brake is applied to the rear wheels.
In order to obtain the best possible performance of the parking brake, the brake linings should be broken
in. (See section titled "Brake system".)
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (6 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Parking brake reminder light
The reminder light PARKING BRAKE on the instrument panel comes on whenever the parking brake
lever is not fully released and the ignition is on.
pg. 9 Lighting
Headlights and position lights
All lights off
Parking lights on
Headlights and parking lights on
Switch from upper to lower beams, and vice versa, by moving the turn signal switch lever on the left
side of the steering column towards the steering wheel. The lights can be used without switching on the
ignition key.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (7 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Instrument panel lamps rheostat
Clockwise - brighter
Counterclockwise - dimmer.
Fog light switch (242 GT)
The fog lights can only be lighted in combination with the lower beams.
There is an in-line fuse for the fog lights. It is located close to the relay panel near the battery.
pg. 10 Turn signals
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (8 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Turn signals
1 Signal lever engaged for normal turns.
2 Lane change position. In maneuvers such as lane changing, the driver can flash the turn signals by
moving the turn signal lever to the first stop and holding it there. The lever will return to the neutral
position when released.
3 High and low beam switching (headlights on).
Move the lever towards the steering wheel and release it.
3 Headlight flasher (headlights off).
Move the lever towards the steering wheel. The headlight high beam will be on until the lever is
released.
pg. 11 Windshield wipers
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (9 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Wiper/washer
1 Intermittent wiper.
With switch in this position, the wipers will make a stroke every seventh second.
2 "Single stroke" position.
Switch returns automatically when released.
3 Wipers, low speed.
4 Wipers, high speed.
5 Wiper and washer.
Adjusting washer nozzles
The nozzle may be adjusted by inserting a needle into the metal nozzle and rotating the nozzle to desired
position.
The washer fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment and holds approx. 6 liters =1.6 US
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (10 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
gals /1.3 Imp gals.
pg. 12 Clock, cigarette lighter, ash tray
Clock
To reset the hands, push in the reset knob and turn.
Cigarette lighter
To operate, depress the knob fully. When the knob automatically releases, the cigarette lighter is ready
for use.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (11 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Ash trays
To remove the ash trays depress the center spring and remove.
pg. 13 Tailgate window wiper, elect. heated rear window, hazard warning flasher
17 Tailgate window wiper/washer, (model 245)
0 Off
1 Wiper and washer combined operation Move the lever to the first stop and hold it there.
2 Tailgate wiper only
The fluid reservoir is located in the concealed storage area under the floor on the right side of the rear
cargo area. Reservoir capacity is approx. 1.5 qts.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (12 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
18 Electrically heated rear window (demist)
0 Off
1 On
Switch off the rear window heater when the glass is clear of mist or frost. Otherwise the battery will be
unduly strained.
Do not place items against the inner surface of the rear window that may damage the printed circuit. Do
not scrape the inner surface of the rear window glass with a hard object, otherwise damage to the printed
circuit will occur.
21 Hazard warning flasher
0 Off
1 On
Four way flashing is used to indicate that the vehicle has become a traffic hazard (either during daylight
or at night).
Note: Regulations regarding the use of the hazard warning flasher may vary from state to state.
pg. 14 Heating and ventilation
Heating system
1 TEMP
Left = COOL
Right = WARM
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (13 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
2 FLOOR
Out = no air to floor
In = full flow of air to front and rear floor
3 DEF (defrost)
Out = low volume air flow to defroster
In = full flow
4 REC (recirculation)
To be used only for cars equipped with air conditioning.
Do not use for heating.
5 FAN (Blower motor)
0 = off
1 = low speed
2 = medium speed
3 = high speed
6 Ventilation outlets
The air flow through the Ventilation outlets is not influenced by the position of the FLOOR (2) and/or
DEF(3) controls.
pg. 15 Heating and ventilation
How to . . .
. . . obtain max. heat
1 TEMP >>> WARM
2 FLOOR depressed
5 FAN >>> 2 (or 3)
6 All outlets halfway open.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (14 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
. . . remove condensation
1 TEMP >>>WARM
3 DEF depressed
5 FAN >>> 2 (or 3)
Always keep front external inlet grille (in front of the windshield) clear of obstructions (snow, ice, etc.).
Fresh air outlets
A Closed
B Open
C Directing air flow horizontally
D Directing air flow vertically
Contents | Top of Page
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01a.htm (15 of 15)12/22/2006 10:11:24 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
pg. 16 Air conditioning
Air conditioning
How to use the air conditioner:
1 FAN
Position 3 for rapid cooling.
2 AIR COND
Depress bottom end of switch to start the compressor.
3 REC (Recirculation)
Push in for rapid cooling and during high humidity conditions.
4 TEMP
Position control to COOL for rapid cooling, then set to desired temperature. To obtain rapid cooling, all
windows must be closed and buttons FLOOR and DEF out.
Cool air will then be discharged through the four dash outlets which should be fully open.
Note: For rapid removal of condensation from inside glass surfaces, the air conditioner can be switched
on even when not required for interior cooling. The air conditioner will dehumidify the air inside the
vehicle.
Have your Volvo dealer check the system for correct operation yearly.
pg. 17 Radios, AM-FM-FM stereo-CB/Tape players
Operating instructions
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01b.htm (1 of 17)12/22/2006 10:11:25 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
This equipment is optional and is available in various models, each providing slightly different
capabilities. Operating instructions are contained in the manuals associated with each model.
These manuals are placed in the cars when the equipment is installed by the Dealer.
Your Volvo Dealer will be able to assist you with any questions regarding the operation of this
equipment.
NOTE: Operation of Citizens Band (CB) radios is governed by Federal Regulations.
You must obtain a special license before operation this equipment.
pg. 18 Front seats
Horizontal seat adjustment
Pull control upward, then slide seat forward or rearward to desired position.
Seat back inclination adjustment
Rotate control clockwise to tilt seat back rearward.
Rotate counterclockwise to tilt seat back forward.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01b.htm (2 of 17)12/22/2006 10:11:25 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Note that body weight must be shifted to allow seat back to move forward.
Lumbar support adjustment
Rotate clockwise for firm support or counterclockwise for soft support.
pg. 19 Front seats
Seat back release, 2-door models
Press the button and fold seat back forward to allow passengers access to/from the rear seats.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01b.htm (3 of 17)12/22/2006 10:11:25 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Driver seat height
There are two levers, each with three positions, for adjusting the height of the seat (front and/or back of
cushion).
This allows adjustment of the seat cushion angle for added comfort.
After adjusting the seat check that it is securely latched.
NOTE! Do not attempt to adjust seat height while seated.
Passenger seat height
The front passenger seat is retained by four brackets, each with three positions. The positions are the
same as for the driver's seat. However, this adjustment must be accomplished manually, using
appropriate hand tools.
pg. 20 Seat belts
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01b.htm (4 of 17)12/22/2006 10:11:25 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Seat belts, retractable
Fasten the seat belts whenever you drive or ride.
Two lights will be illuminated for 4-8 seconds after the ignition key is turned to driving position. One
light is located in the instrument cluster and one in the console between the front seats.
A buzzer will sound at the same time if the driver has not fastened his seat belt.
The front and rear outboard seats are provided with self-retracting inertia belts.
To buckle:
Pull the belt out from the retractor far enough to insert the latch plate into the receptacle (buckle for rear
seats), until a distinct snapping sound is heard. The belt should not be twisted or turned.
To unfasten, depress red pushbutton in receptacle (buckle) and let the belts rewind into their retractors.
The seat belt retractors are normally unlocked. The retractors will lock up as follows:
● if belt is pulled out rapidly
● during braking and acceleration
● if the vehicle is leaning excessively
● when driving in turns
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01b.htm (5 of 17)12/22/2006 10:11:25 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Check seat belt mechanism function as follows:
1. Attach the seat belt. Pull rapidly on the strap.
2. CAUTION: Check other traffic before accomplishing this check.
Brake firmly from approximately 30 mph (50 km/h) or turn in a tight circle while pulling on the belt.
In all the above checks you should not be able to pull the belt out.
pg. 21 Seat belts
Seat belts, manually adjustable
The center rear seat belt is manually adjustable. It should always be adjusted to the correct length.
To lengthen, angle the buckle as shown in the illustration and pull the belt through.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01b.htm (6 of 17)12/22/2006 10:11:25 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
To shorten, pull the upper part of the double webbing until snug.
Maintenance
Check periodically that the anchor bolts are secure and the belt in good condition.
Use water and a mild detergent for cleaning.
As the seat belts lose much of their strength when exposed to violent stretching, they should be
replaced after collision, even though they may appear to be undamaged.
Never modify or repair the belt on your own, but have this done by a Volvo workshop.
pg. 22 Doors and locks
Unlocking front doors
Both front doors can be unlocked by using the key. Turning the key 1/4 turn counterclockwise lifts the
lock buttons on the window ledge and the door can be opened by pulling the handle.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01b.htm (7 of 17)12/22/2006 10:11:25 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Locking doors
All doors can be locked by depressing the lock buttons. To lock the front doors, press down the lock
button and keep the door handle pulled out while shutting the door.
To lock the rear doors, press down the lock button and shut the door. It is not necessary to keep the door
handle pulled out.
To open a rear door from inside, the lock button must first be pulled up.
The lock buttons should not be in the down position during driving. In case of an accident, this
may hinder rapid access to the occupants of the vehicle.
In wintertime the door locks should be "lubricated" with at suitable agent to prevent freezing. If the lock
is frozen, be careful not to break the key in the lock. Thaw the ice by heating the lock or the key.
pg. 23 Rear doors, trunk lid
Child safety locks, 244 and 245
The buttons are located on the rear door jambs.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01b.htm (8 of 17)12/22/2006 10:11:25 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
A Normal lock function.
B The door cannot be opened from the inside.
Trunk lid 242 and 244
To open the lid, turn the knob clockwise.
NOTE: The key must be removed from the lock in order to be able to open the lid.
The spare wheel jack and tool kit are stowed in the left side of the trunk.
pg. 24 Hood
To open the hood
Pull the release handle (located under the left side of the dash).
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01b.htm (9 of 17)12/22/2006 10:11:25 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Lift the hood slightly, insert a hand under the center line of the hood and depress the safety catch handle.
Open the hood.
Check that the hood locks properly when closing.
pg. 25 Vent windows, rear view mirrors
Rear vent windows, 2-door models
A Open
B Closed
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01b.htm (10 of 17)12/22/2006 10:11:25 PM
1978 Volvo 242 244 245
Side view mirrors
A Adjustment sideways
B Adjustment up/down
Rear view mirror
D Normal position
N Night position, reduces glare from following headlights
The mirrors should always be adjusted before driving.
pg. 26 Interior light, sun roof, fuel tank cap
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1978/1978_242_244_245/78242244245_01b.htm (11 of 17)12/22/2006 10:11:25 PM
Loading...