I've read that its a fairly common issue to see broken door handles on these cars especially as they age. Well this AM my Drivers outer handle went POP and that was that.

I am going to have to tear into this and take a look to be sure but is there another common issue besides the actual handle assy?

Thanks

 

Jeh,

You didn't mention your VIN, and there is a design change starting with 667829, however if your VIN is prior to that number, then it is most likely a poorly produced rivet that deteriorates and gives way.

I've replaced mine several times; made the mistake of buying identical handles and getting the same end result. There are some DIY modifications you can do if your handy with improve work. I have a copy of a DIY modification done by Pete P out of MD, it has pictures and narrative explaining the process. I'll contact Pete and see if it's okay to release.

I finally found a vendor source that specializes (I have no affiliation) in doing the modification and they work very well, in fact I replaced all the door handles because I was impressed with the work and the method of modification. If your interested PM me and I'll give you the source.

You can buy used handles on eBay, but you have the same risk

 

Thanks for the quick reply. My car is a 94 and the VIN is 689091. I was concerned about a used one as they are all 18+ years old at this point and the same issue is going to be there.

I work at in Independent Volvo Shop and we have been fixing door handles for years because of the same issue. The old ones are worn out and the new ones can be expensive.

I would greatly appreciate any source for a replacement or the diy info would be better if available.

Thanks

Joe

 

I have one on my desk right now!

Where the latch lever attaches is made of 'pot metal'.

Over time this simply shears off and the handle is US.

It is only an hour to change one, so even if buying used involves another change 6 months down the line it is not much of a problem.

Of course you are in NM with LHD if you could source a passenger handle from a RHD car it will by default have had much less use.

 

Why that's an awesome idea Richard. Please sell me one of yours. .
I am hoping Rob comes through with the DIY fix or its off to EBAY.UK

FWIW I just contacted a seller in the UK for a Left front one.

 

But before any of that, remove the door panel and have a look see. 10 mins of a job and it may be that the rod has become detached.

Very unlikely though.

I don't have a camera right now, but I'll take a pic of the broken one tomorrow to give you an idea.

 

I pulled the door panel and the handle and found the handle was broken as suspected. On the bright side I found out why the door lock/unlock was always sketchy or inop as the little grommet was broken and the rod wouldn't actuate the latch enough to unlock the door. I've been using the remote since day 1.

So its off to Ebay.UK for a door handle.

 

LOL, You must be unique on this forum!!