How to Identify Volvo Automatic Transmission Models

To identify your Volvo’s transmission, follow these general guidelines:

• Model Year and Engine Type: The transmission type changes with the model year and engine type. For example, Volvo used the British-made Borg-Warner BW-35 3-speed automatic transmission in the 1960s and ’70s. This later evolved into the BW-55 and then the AW-55.

• 4-Cylinder Engines: For 4-cylinder engines in the 240 series, Volvo used transmissions like the AW-70 for naturally aspirated engines (B19, B200, B230) and the AW-71 for turbocharged 4-cylinder engines (B230FT) or V6 engines (B28/B280).

Transmission Case Markings

Case markings help identify specific models:

• AW-70 is marked “03-70”
• AW-71 is marked “03-71”
• AW-72L, used with 16-valve engines, has unique markings and a modified valve body.

Manual Transmissions

M40, M41, M46, M47: These can be identified by the number of gears and overdrive:

• M47 is a 5-speed manual.
• M46 is a 4-speed manual with overdrive.
• M41 is a 4-speed manual with overdrive, used in some 140 and 240 models.

Automatic Transmissions

AW-70, AW-71, AW-72L: These automatic transmissions are linked to specific engine types:

• AW-70L and AW-71L versions have a locking torque converter for improved performance.

Customization for Application

• Transmissions are customized for engine families. Using a transmission from a different engine family (e.g., V6, turbo 4, non-turbo 4) can lead to problems like short clutch life or incorrect shift speeds.

Checking the Transmission ID Plate

To identify your Volvo Transmission, check the transmission ID plate. Here’s how to find and understand the information:

ID Plate Location: The location depends on the type of gearbox:

• • On a GM 6L80 transmission, the ID plate is usually a sticker on the side.
  • For a Ford 4R75 transmission, it’s a metal plate screwed into the housing.

Information on the ID Plate:

• • Transmission Model Number: Identifies the transmission model. You may see “TF80-SC” for Volvo or “16 S 1820 TO” for ZF.
  • Serial Number: A unique identifier, usually six or seven digits, for that transmission.
  • Part Number: A detailed part number, often split into groups (e.g., a ten-digit number in groups of 4, 3, and 3 for ZF transmissions).
  • Customer Number: Shows the manufacturer or specific application, like a MAN part number or a MAN unit.
  • Gear Ratio and Specs: Includes gear ratios, taco ratios, and PTO specifications, which are key for calibration and operation.

Reading the ID Plate: Start at the top left. You’ll find details like gearbox family, model number, serial number, and other specifications. For ZF transmissions, the plate has distinct sections for gearbox type, part number, serial number, and other technical data.

Cleaning the Plate: If the plate is dirty or painted over, clean it carefully:

• • Use a solvent cleaner and a rag to remove dirt.
  • If painted over, gently rub off the paint with emery paper, but avoid damaging the information.

The ID plate data is essential to ensure you get the right parts or replacements for your Volvo Transmission.

Using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) can help identify your Volvo’s transmission, though it may not always have this detail directly. Here’s how to use the VIN for useful information:

Vehicle Description Section (VDS)

The fourth through eighth characters of the VIN, known as the Vehicle Description Section, might include details about the transmission, as well as the body type and engine. However not all Volvo models provide transmission information this way, so it isn’t always reliable.

VIN Decoder Tools

Online VIN decoder tools like those from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or AutoZone can extract details such as drive type and sometimes transmission information. Keep in mind, that not all decoders will have complete data on transmissions.

Visual Inspection

If the VIN doesn’t reveal the transmission type, a visual inspection can help. For example, a clutch pedal indicates a manual transmission, while automatic transmissions have a gear selector with ‘P’, ‘R’, ‘N’, and ‘D’.

Model-Specific Information

For some Volvo models, like the 2006 XC90, the last six digits of the VIN can identify the transmission part number. VINs 354475 or lower may indicate one transmission type, while VINs 354476 or higher might indicate another.

OEM Factory Build Data

For more precise data, accessing OEM factory-build information or using specialized VIN decoding APIs can identify the transmission type, even if it’s not directly included in the VIN.

Manufacturer Variations

Different manufacturers, including Volvo, vary in how they encode VIN details. Sometimes the eighth digit includes transmission information, but this isn’t consistent across all models.

Transmission Models by Volvo Model and Year

Volvo 200 Series (1974-1993)

• Manual Transmissions: Early models had four-speed manuals, with optional five-speed manuals for the 264GL and 265GL. Overdrive was later added to the 244GL and most manual models, except the base 242L and 245L.
• Automatic Transmissions: Initially, a three-speed automatic was used, followed by a four-speed automatic for GL models.

Volvo 700/900 Series (1982-1998)

• Manual Transmissions: Common manual models included M45, M46, M47, and M56.
• Automatic Transmissions: The series featured AW70, AW71, and AW72 automatic transmissions.

Volvo S60 (First Generation 2000-2009)

• Manual Transmissions: A five-speed manual was available for base models and the T5 variant.
• Automatic Transmissions: Models came with four-speed or six-speed automatics, with optional all-wheel drive (AWD).

Volvo S60 (Second Generation 2011-2018)

• Manual Transmissions: Only the high-performance S60 R offered a six-speed manual.
• Automatic Transmissions: Most models used six-speed automatics, with available AWD.

Volvo S60 (Third Generation 2019-Present)

• Manual Transmissions: No manual options are offered.
• Automatic Transmissions: This generation uses an eight-speed automatic, with front-wheel drive (FWD) or AWD options.

Volvo XC90 (2003-Present)

• Manual Transmissions: A six-speed manual was offered between 2005-2007, and the R-design AWD featured it in 2010.
• Automatic Transmissions: The XC90 uses various automatics, including the AW55-50/51 series.

Volvo V70R (2004-2007)

• Manual Transmissions: Manual options were available during these years.
• Automatic Transmissions: The V70R used AW70 and AW55-50/51 automatic models.

240 Series

The Volvo 240 Series used several automatic transmissions throughout its production. The AW70 was one of the most notable options. Below is an overview of the main transmission models in this series and their key differences.

AW70 Transmission

Introduction and Compatibility:
The AW70 automatic transmission was introduced in 1982 with the U.S. version of the Volvo 240, initially paired with the B21F engine. In 1983, the B23F engine also became compatible with it. Built by Aisin-Warner, the AW70 is a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Gear Ratios:
It offers smooth gear transitions with these ratios:

• • 1st gear: 2.45
  • 2nd gear: 1.45
  • 3rd gear: 1.00
  • 4th gear: 0.69
  • Reverse: 2.22

AW70L Upgrade:
In 1989, Volvo introduced an enhanced version of the AW70, called the AW70L, which includes a lock-up torque converter. Though initially less common, the AW70L appeared more frequently in later models of the 240 Series.

AW71 Transmission Option

• Higher-Output Engines:
  Some later 240 models, especially those with more powerful engines, were fitted with the AW71 The AW71 is a reinforced version of the AW70, built to handle higher power output. While it was mostly found in the 740 and 940 series, certain 240 models also used it.

Reliability and Maintenance

Hydraulic Control:
Both the AW70 and AW70L transmissions are hydraulically controlled, which eliminates the electronic issues that often occur with other transmission systems. This straightforward design contributes to their reputation for reliability.

Shift-Lock Solenoid:
From around 1991, some 240 models included a shift-lock solenoid, also present in the 740 and 940 Series. This feature requires the brake pedal to be pressed before shifting out of the park, adding an extra layer of safety.

By knowing the transmission types used in the Volvo 240 Series, owners can better understand their vehicle’s performance and maintenance requirements.

260 Series

The Volvo 260 series, made from 1980 to 1982, used the BW55 transmission. This transmission was paired with a V6 engine in these models.

Key Transmission Details

• Transmission Model: BW55
• Production Years: 1980-1982 (for the 260 series)
• Other Models: The BW55 was also used in the Volvo 240 series between 1974 and 1983.

Parts and Maintenance

• Spring Control System: Available as a genuine Volvo part with part number 1233180.
• Transmission Fluid: The BW55 requires Type F ATF fluid (e.g., MAG 1 Type F ATF).

740 Series

The Volvo 740 series used several automatic transmissions across different models and years. Here’s a breakdown:

1985-1994: Many 740 models featured the AW70L, a 4-speed automatic with a lock-up torque converter.

• • Gear Ratios:
    • 1st: 45:1
    • 2nd: 45:1
    • 3rd: 00:1
    • 4th: 69:1
    • Reverse: 22:1

1990-1994: The AW72L, a modified version of the AW71, came with the 16-valve B234F 4-cylinder engine.

• • Gear Ratios:
    • 1st: 83:1
    • 2nd: 49:1
    • 3rd: 00:1
    • 4th: 73:1
    • Reverse: 70:1

1990-1992: Turbocharged 2.3L inline-4 models used the A43DL (03-71), a 4-speed RWD automatic transmission.

1984-1988: Diesel versions of the 740 series required stronger transmissions to handle the higher torque of turbo-diesel engines. These units also appeared in 740/760 and 940/960 turbo-diesel models.

Other models used the AW71 and AW71L transmissions, designed for turbocharged or high-output naturally aspirated engines. In 1990, the series got mechanical upgrades, including larger connecting rods for B200 and B230 engines. This period also saw the introduction of the Mitsubishi TD04 turbocharger for turbo models.

760 Series

The Volvo 760 series offered various transmission options and engine configurations over its production years. Here’s an overview of the key transmissions and performance details:

AW71 Transmission (1985-1990)

The AW71 transmission was used in Volvo 760 models with turbocharged and high-output engines. It was an improved version of the AW70, known for boosting fuel efficiency by up to 20% on long-distance drives.

• Gear Ratios:
  • 1st: 2.45
  • 2nd: 1.45
  • 3rd: 1.00
  • 4th: 0.69
  • Reverse: 2.22

BW55 Transmission (1983-1984 Turbo Diesel Models)

The BW55 transmission was used in 1983-1984 turbo diesel 760 models in North America. This Borg Warner transmission was designed specifically for diesel engines.

Engine Configurations in the 760 Series

• V6 Engine: The 760 initially came with a 156bhp V6 engine, carried over from the Volvo 260 series.
• Turbocharged Engines: From 1984, the B23ET and later the B230FT turbocharged engines powered the 760 Turbo. Equipped with a Garrett turbo and intercooler, they produced 173bhp.
• Diesel Engine: The series also offered a 122bhp turbocharged 6-cylinder diesel engine from Volkswagen.

760 Estate (1985 Onwards)

The 760 Estate, launched in 1985 for the US market, included new safety features like ABS and Traction Control. Estates became very popular, eventually making up a significant part of sales.

• Sales Note: By 1989, over 40%of Volvo 740 series sales were estate models.

Key Updates (1987-1988)

In 1987, the 760 series received major upgrades, including a multilink independent rear suspension for better road handling. In 1988, the series added a revised dashboard and standard Electronic Climate Control (ECC) in US models.