If you have replaced the tires to a bigger or smaller size other than OEM this could be the problem. The 240 was in production for many years and went through many production changes. The first two following are linked, the third more rare:
1. The speedo drive (in the gearbox) has been changed for the wrong type. Or the gearbox has been changed for an alternative.
2. The speedo has been changed and doesn't match the gearbox drive.
3. Basically, the speedo works by spinning a magnet inside a cup connected to the needle. Over time, through the collection of dust and through mechanical wear, the coupling drag can change and cause the needle to be 'dragged' further round the dial.
Ticking, needle 'bounce' and wander are associated with a dry or badly routed cable. Periodic oiling of the drive cable inner cures it.
Yes, but your speedometer will read 1.5 mph fast.
The size of tires can effect that accuracy of a speedometer. Larger tires will cause the speedometer to read less than you are actually going.
Check the wires on the back of the rear axle. There is a sensor there for the speedometer. If the wires break, it will not read any speed or distance. I have had to repair mine twice. The sensor is on the drivers side of the differential to the rear. Hope that is it. Figure out the anti swaybar travel when you repair the connection to the sensor
instantaneous speed. =)
instantaneous speed
On the speedometer, no. It will indicate a speed but it will not be accurate.
At 60 mph the speedometer will read 58.1 mph.
A car has a speedometer. When you read the speed that it indicates, and you know the direction in which you're driving, then you know the car's velocity.
Volvo uses the Volvo Navigation System (VNS) that was developed by Volvo. You can read about it at http://www.volvocars.com/us/sales-services/sales/soundandnavigation/volvonavigationsystems/pages/default.aspx
check if it has a speedometer cable if not the speed sensor needs to be replaced
instantanous speed
instantaneous speed