2003 Volvo S60 problems
The Volvo S60 is a compact executive car manufactured and marketed by Volvo since 2000.
The first generation (2000–2009) was launched in autumn of 2000 in order to replace the S70 and was based on the P2 platform. It had a similar designed estate version called Volvo V70 and a high performance engine and sports-oriented suspension version called S60 R. Styling cues were taken from the ECC concept car and the S80.
The second generation (2010–2018) was released in 2010 for the 2011 model year and has its own estate version, known as the Volvo V60.
The third generation joined the Volvo line-up in 2018 for the 2019 model year. It is built on a shortened version of the Scalable Product Architecture platform, in America's first Volvo factory in Ridgeville, South Carolina. The US became the sole global source of the S60 sedan after production in China was phased out in early 2019.
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Common 2003 Volvo S60 problems
The Volvo S60, while having an above-average reliability score, is not immune to certain common problems that have been reported by its owners. The most frequently reported issue is related to the transmission, with owners of models from 2001 to 2009, as well as the 2014 model, experiencing jerking between shifts, particularly in lower gears such as between the first and second gear. This issue can be attributed to either internal component failure or software problems. The constant jerking and transmission slipping can make driving in stop-and-go traffic quite bothersome. In some cases, the entire transmission has failed, leading to a breakdown. While the root cause of the problem has been identified, many owners have reported encountering the issue even after supposed fixes, highlighting the need for timely and thorough repairs.
Another common problem with the Volvo S60 is front strut mount failure, which affects models from 2001 to 2009. The strut mount is the top part of the strut assembly, and the vehicle body is designed to rest most of its weight on it. When the strut mount fails, owners report hearing a loud noise from the front end of the sedan when passing over bumps, traveling at high speeds, or even turning the steering wheel. Replacing the strut assembly has been found to resolve this issue, with replacement assemblies costing between $30 and $200.
While these issues are not universal to all Volvo S60 models, they are common enough to be noteworthy. It is essential to address these problems promptly, as delaying repairs can lead to more costly and time-consuming fixes. Regular maintenance and software updates, as recommended by RepairPal, can help mitigate some of these issues and ensure a smoother, more reliable driving experience.
What is the main problem with Volvo S60?
If you are having performance problems with your S60, the ETM (Electronic Throttle Module) is known to get blocked by a carbon build up. The MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor also gets a build up. Poor engine idling, bad starting and lack of power/acceleration are all symptoms of these issues.
Is Volvo S60 a reliable car?
The 2024 Volvo S60 has a predicted reliability score of 71 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What are the disadvantages of Volvo S60?
Common Volvo S60 Problems
- Transmission shift failures.
- Knocking and clicking sounds.
- Oil leaks.
- Thumping engine.
- Erratic shifting.
- Poor performance.
Is Volvo S60 worth the money?
Got it! Highs Handsomely designed interior, top-notch seat comfort, all models are nicely equipped. Lows Lacks driving verve, plug-less powertrain is uninspiring, few places to put items inside. Verdict The S60 is a good fit for drivers who prefer all-day comfort over on-demand fun.
What is the main problem with Volvo S60?
If you are having performance problems with your S60, the ETM (Electronic Throttle Module) is known to get blocked by a carbon build up. The MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor also gets a build up. Poor engine idling, bad starting and lack of power/acceleration are all symptoms of these issues.
Is Volvo S60 a reliable car?
The 2024 Volvo S60 has a predicted reliability score of 71 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What are the disadvantages of Volvo S60?
Common Volvo S60 Problems
- Transmission shift failures.
- Knocking and clicking sounds.
- Oil leaks.
- Thumping engine.
- Erratic shifting.
- Poor performance.
Is Volvo S60 worth the money?
Got it! Highs Handsomely designed interior, top-notch seat comfort, all models are nicely equipped. Lows Lacks driving verve, plug-less powertrain is uninspiring, few places to put items inside. Verdict The S60 is a good fit for drivers who prefer all-day comfort over on-demand fun.
2003 Volvo S60 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo S60 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Volvo S60 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Volvo S60
The NHTSA has received 122 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Volvo S60. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Volvo S60 vehicles.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-08
- VIN: YV1RS61T632
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWN A 2003 VOLVO S60. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT STRUTS WERE COMING THROUGH THE STRUT MOUNTS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY WHILE DRIVING. THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT AND ANOTHER UNKNOWN WARNING LIGHT WERE ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CHERRY HILL VOLVO CARS (1810 W RTE 70, CHERRY HILL, NJ 08002), WHERE THE STRUT MOUNTS WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN BACK TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WAS HE AFRAID THAT WHILE DRIVING OVER A BUMP THE STRUTS MIGHT DETACH. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 126,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-01
- VIN: YV1RH59H632
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE STEERING HAS BECOME LESS RESPONSIVE AND I EXPERIENCE STEERING WHEEL PLAY, REPLACING FLUID HAS NOT RESOLVED THIS ISSUE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-20
- VIN: YV1RS61TX32
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: INSTRUMENT PANEL/CLUSTER GOES OUT WHILE DRIVING WHICH MEANS YOU CAN'T READ ANY OF THE GUAGES OR WARNINGS LIGHTS OTHER THAN IF CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS ON. THIS IMPOSES A SAFETY RISKS TO ME AND OTHER TRAFFIC ON THE ROAD. IT DOES THIS ERRATICALLY, GOING OUT COMPLETELY AND COMING BACK ON IN TIME. NO FUSE PROBLEMS, THEY ARE CHECKED WHEN THIS ISSUE HAPPENS. I HAVE A PICTURE OF EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENS RIGHT BEFORE THE WHOLE PANEL GOES OUT.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-06
- VIN: YV1RS58D732
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: VECHILE LEAKING GAS AND HAD STRONG GAS SMELL.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-25
- VIN: YV1RS64A132
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE DASHBOARD INSTRUMENT PANEL AND LIGHTS GO OFF AND COME BACK ON WHENEVER. I HAVE HAD THE CAR FOR OVER A YEAR. IT WAS A GIFT. I JUST FOUND OUT TONITE FROM AN OFFICER THAT WHEN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND LIGHTS ARE OFF I HAVE NO TAIL LIGHTS. I WAS WONDERING IF THERE HAS EVER BEEN A RECALL. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS THE DATE BELOW IS IT AN APPROXIMATE. I REALLY DO NOT REMEMBER THE EXACT DATE.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-01
- VIN: YV1RS58D732
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL LEAKING FROM TANK (MOST LIKELY TOP OF TANK), WHEN FUEL PUMP IS OPERATING. UPON SOME SEARCH, I FOUND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM FOR THE S60 FROM 2001 TO 2009. BUT FOR SOME REASON MY VIN IS NOT COVERED. SEEMS LIKE THERE'S SOME LOOPHOLE THAT THEY MANAGED TO USE, WHY NOT ALL VINS SHOULD BE COVERED. ITS CLEARLY A VERY DANGEROUS FAILURE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-21
- VIN: YV1RS61T932
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER NOT ILLUMINATING. I UNDERSTAND THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH 2003 S60 VOLVOS. MANUFACTURER NEEDS TO RECALL/REPAIR AS THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY ISSUE WHEN ALL THE INSTRUMENTS GO DARK AND YOU CANNOT GAUGE YOUR SPEED AND GAS LEFT IN TANK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-03
- VIN: YV1RS61T932
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I HAVE A 2003 S60 VOLVO. THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WAS FINE YESTERDAY, BUT WHEN I GOT IN THE CAR TODAY THE PANEL INSTRUMENT PANEL IS COMPLETELY BLACK. THIS INCLUDES ALL GAUGES, SPEEDOMETER, RPM, FUEL, TEMP AND BLINKERS, ALL GAUGES ARE OFF.. (SEE ATTACHED PIC). THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY IN MY DRIVEWAY. THE CAR STILL RUN GREAT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-15
- VIN: YV1RS61T332
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO S60. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL INDICATOR INTERMITTENTLY ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT A CABLE BEHIND THE MILEAGE GAUGE FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 179,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-02
- VIN: YV1RS61T632
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: DASH CLUSTER LIGHTS AND GAUGES AND TURN SIGNAL INDICATOR SHUT DOWN AND BACK ON INTERMITTENTLY, MOTOR SEEMS TO LOSE POWER WHEN DRIVING, AND ROUGH IDLE. THE DASH CLUSTER PROBLEM HAPPENS WHILE DRIVING AND IN THE PARK POSITION. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-21
- VIN: YV1RS58D132
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ENTIRE DASHBORAD HAS WENT BLACK GAS GAUGE,SPEEDODMETOR,TURNING SIGNALS AND HAZARD LIGHTS.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-05
- VIN: YV1RH59H932
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO S60. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL ODOR OF FUEL IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR SEAT WAS LIFTED AND THE SEAL WAS MISSING FROM THE FUEL TANK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V483000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 220,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-06
- VIN: YV1RS61T932
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WENT DEAD LAST WINTER; NO LIGHTS, NO INDICATORS, NO INSTRUMENTS, NOTHING. I RECENTLY BECAME AWARE THAT THIS IS NOT AN UNCOMMON PROBLEM. JUST AN EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE ONE. A VOLVO TECHNICIAN INFORMED ME THAT THE JAPANESE FIRM THAT VOLVO HIRED DID A POOR JOB AND MANY OF THE INSTRUMENT PANELS HAVE DEFECTIVE SOLDERING AND REQUIRE REPLACEMENT OR HAVE THE PANEL "RE-POINTED". APPARENTLY, IT IS LESS OF AN ISSUE IN MOIST CLIMATES. VOLVO WILL NOT REPAIR THE PANEL. THEY WILL ONLY REPLACE IT. I WAS QUOTED $1,605.00 PLUS $157.00 TO PROGRAM IT TO THE CAR'S COMPUTER. THE TECHNICIAN KNEW EXACTLY WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT. SO, AS I SAID BEFORE, THIS IS NOT A UNCOMMON PROBLEM. WITH A DEAD INSTRUMENT PANEL, YOU CANNOT DETERMINE HOW FAST YOU ARE GOING, HOW MUCH GAS YOU HAVE IN YOUR CAR, NO OIL INDICATOR, NO TURN SIGNALS, NO HIGH BEAM, OR ANY OF THE ALERTS OR REMINDERS THAT THE COMPUTER PUTS UP.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-02
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER FAILURE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-03
- VIN: YV1RH59H632
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: AIR BAGS SAY URGENT SERVICE NEEDED ,CLOCK GOING BACKWARDS , ON BOARD COMPUTER GOING CRAZY , WORRIED ABOUT IT CATCHING FIRE ,TAIL LIGHTS HAVE BEEN REPLACED 2 TIMES AND STILL THEY GO OUT RIGHT AFTER BEING REPLACED
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-12
- VIN: YV1RS61T632
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY 2003 VOLVO S60, THE DASH INSTRUMENT PANEL SUDDENLY LOST ALL POWER W/THE GAUGES/DISPLAY ALL STOPPING. THEN IT WOULD RETURN AND KEEP WORKING. THEN IT WOULD DO IT A DIFFERENT TIME, CONTINUING IN THIS CYCLE - RANDOMLY SHUTTING OFF COMPLETELY SO I HAD NO GAUGES, WARNING LIGHTS, TURN SIGNAL LIGHTS, ETC. JUST A LARGE BLACK AREA WHERE THE INSTRUMENT PANEL IS. THIS WAS ESPECIALLY CONCERNING AT NIGHT WHEN I WOULD JUST RANDOMLY LOOSE THE DISPLAY WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. I CONTACTED VOLVO AND THEY SAID THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM W/THEIR VEHICLES (AND IS ALSO CONFIRMED WHEN LOOKING ONLINE FOR OTHERS WHO HAVE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM). THE REPAIR IS NOT COVERED UNDER ANY SORT OF SAFETY RECALL, AND IS VERY EXPENSIVE. FOR A MFG WHOSE CARS ARE TOUTED AS BEING VERY SAFE, HAVING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL SUDDENLY STOP WORKING SO NO IDEA OF SPEED NOR ANY GAUGES/WARNING LIGHTS ARE AVAILABLE WHILE DRIVING IS CLEARLY NOT IN-LINE W/SAFE DRIVING. NO OTHER CAR I'VE OWNED HAS EVER HAD THIS KNOWN PROBLEM, ESPECIALLY W/A PART NOT PRONE TO WEAR & TEAR LIKE OTHER PARTS TYPICALLY ARE IN A CAR.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-28
- VIN: YV1RS58D532
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO S60. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, A FUEL ODOR EMITTED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V483000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-01
- VIN: YV1RS580732
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: TRANSMISSION SHIFTING PROBLEMS OIL LEAKS.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-03
- VIN: YV1RH59H032
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL LEAK COMING FROM UNDERCARRIAGE PASSANGER RIGHT REAR SEATS, NEAR FUEL FILTER, OFF THE TOP OF THE GAS TANK. NOTICABLE SMELL AND HUGE HAZARD FOR SAFETY. WHAT MAKES IT PRESENCE DETECTED IS SMELL INSIDE CABIN AFTER FILLING GAS TANK AT FUELING STATIONS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-03
- VIN: YV1TS92D731
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I AM SURPRISED THERE HAS NOT BEEN A RECALL ISSUED FOR CERTAIN MODEL YEAR VOLVOS RELATIVE TO THE CENTER DASH MODULE LOSING ALL COMMUNICATION APPARENTLY DUE TO FAILED SOLDER CONNECTIONS (BASED ON CHAT-ROOMS, VOLVO SPECIFIC). I UNDERSTAND COMPONENTS CAN FAIL, BUT THE SHEER NUMBER OF FAILURES AND THE FAILURE MODE IS BEYOND TYPICAL OR EXPECTED FAILURES. THE FAILURE MODE CAUSES MOST OR ALL DASH GAUGES, INDICATORS AND LIGHTS TO FAIL, INCLUDING THE SPEEDOMETER. THESE FAILURES APPARENTLY OCCUR RANDOMLY, AND AT ANY AGE/MILEAGE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-17
- VIN: YV1RS58D532
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO S60. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE IGNITION WAS TURNED TO THE ON POSITION, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED CONTINUOUSLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIR FLOW, THE PRESSURE, AND OXYGEN SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 110,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-01
- VIN: YV1RS61T832
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO S60. WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS, THE ENGINE STALLED AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 07V226000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 162,000. UPDATED 09/01/2015*LJ UPDATED 10/27/2015*JS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-15
- VIN: YV1RS61T032
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING HOME AFTER HAVING STEERING RACK REPLACED THE DASH LIGHTS (SPEEDOMETER, TURN SIGNALS, MESSAGE CENTER, ETC.) WENT COMPLETELY OUT. AFTER MULTIPLE DRIVES THE DASH LIGHTS GO ON AND OFF INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-23
- VIN: YV1RH59H932
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR INTERIOR SMELLED OF GASOLINE AND GASOLINE LEAKING INTO PASSENGER COMPARTMENT AND UNDERNEATH CAR. TOOK CAR TO AAA REPAIR FACILITY WHERE MULTIPLE LEAKS AND MALFUNCTIONS DISCOVERED AND REPAIRED. LOW MILEAGE FOR YEAR OF CAR AND NO ACCIDENTS. FUEL LEVEL SENSOR ASSEMBLY CRACKED AND LEAKING - NOT THE GASKET - THE FUEL LEVEL SENSOR PLASTIC HOUSING FAILED. FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLY LEAKING. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-10
- VIN: YV1RS58D432
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO S60. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL GRADUALLY BECAME INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE INSTRUMENT PANEL NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000. UPDATED 4/20/15*CN
2003 Volvo S60 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2003 Volvo S60.
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2001-2006 S80 and 2001-2009 S60 vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R10125.
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2001-2003 S80 and S60 vehicles sold or ever registered in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The driver side frontal air bag inflator may rupture, sending metal fragments into the passage compartment, when the driver side air bag is deployed.
- Consequence: Metal fragments can strike vehicle occupants increasing the risk of serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Volvo Car will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver side air bag module, free of charge. The recall began April 20, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10058.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH GARMIN 760 PORTABLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) UNITS BECAUSE THE BATTERIES ON THOSE UNITS MAY OVERHEAT.
- Consequence: AN OVERHEATED BATTERY COULD LEAD TO A FIRE.
- Remedy: VOLVO ADVISES OWNERS TO PLEASE STOP USING THE GARMIN PORTABLE GPS DEVICE IMMEDIATELY, AND VISIT THE GARMIN WEBSITE TO DETERMINE IF THEIR UNIT IS AFFECTED. THE UNIT'S BATTERY WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW BATTERY AND A SPACER WILL BE INSERTED ON TOP OF THE BATTERY NEXT TO THE PCB. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 18, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GARMIN AT 866-957-1981 OR VISIT GARMIN'S WEBSITE AT WWW.GARMIN.COM/NUVIBATTERYPCBRECALL.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2005 S80, MODEL YEAR 2001-2004 V70, S60, XC70 AND MODEL YEAR 2003-2005 XC90 VEHICLES SOLD IN OR REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF ALABAMA, ARIZONA, ARKANSAS, CALIFORNIA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, HAWAII, KENTUCKY, LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI, NEVADA, NEW MEXICO, NORTH CAROLINA, OKLAHOMA, SOUTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, UTAH, VIRGINIA AND THE U.S. TERRITORIES. WHEN EXPOSED TO CERTAIN ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS (HOT CLIMATE AND TEMPERATURE CYCLING) OVER TIME AND IN COMBINATION WITH VARYING FUEL QUALITY, THE FUEL PUMP CAN DEVELOP CRACKS IN THE FUEL PUMP FLANGE.
- Consequence: IF THE CONDITION OCCURS VEHICLE OWNERS MAY NOTICE FUEL SMELL AND/OR FUEL LEAK WHICH, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL PUMP INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE, AND IF NECESSARY REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP WITH A PART OF A MODIFIED DESIGN. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR LOCATED ON THE LEFT END OF THE FUEL RAIL MAY, AT TIMES, TRANSMIT INCORRECT SIGNAL REGARDING THE FUEL PRESSURE TO THE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE. IF THE SIGNAL IS OUTSIDE OF THE PRE-PROGRAMMED ALLOWABLE LIMITS, A DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE MAY BE SET AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WILL COME ON. THE SOLDERED JOINTS ON THE CIRCUIT BOARD OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR MAY CRACK DUE TO TEMPERATURE CHANGES AND EXCESSIVE VIBRATIONS.
- Consequence: MISFIRE MAY OCCUR DURING DRIVING THAT, IN TURN, WILL REDUCE THE ENGINE TORQUE AND IN THE WORST CASE SCENARIO, THE ENGINE MAY STALL WITHOUT WARNING. IN CERTAIN TRAFFIC SITUATIONS THIS COULD CAUSE AN UNSAFE SITUATION AND POSSIBLY A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 29, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
- Manufacturer: CARDONE INDUSTRIES, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.
- Consequence: LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER CARS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THE SECOND ISOFIX GUIDE WAS NOT INSTALLED IN THESE VEHICLES AND, IN CERTAIN CASES, THE OWNER'S MANUAL ISOFIX INFORMATION IS INCORRECT.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL RECEIVE A LETTER/PACKAGE CONSISTING OF THE SECOND ISOFIX GUIDE WITH INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS, AND IN CERTAIN CASES, THE CORRECTED OWNER'S MANUAL MAY BE PROVIDED. IF THE OWNER WANTS TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLE TO A VOLVO DEALER FOR INSTALLATION OF THE GUIDE, IT WILL BE PERFORMED AT NO CHARGE TO THE OWNER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 19, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
Negative 2003 Volvo S60 car reviews
Positive 2003 Volvo S60 car reviews
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I have had my S60 for about a month now and I absolutely love it! Although I was afraid that going to a much smaller car would be an issue, it's not. True, it is much smaller in the back seat, however, I have not had any complaints (and if I do, they can get out and walk). The lines are nice and the interior is well laid out and very comfortable. I would highly recommend this car to anyone!
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Great looking and driving car! I'm so glad you're enjoying the quality of the interior for the money you paid.
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I got the S60ASR six months and 10K miles ago and I have loved every minute of it. It's a pleasure to cruise in, especially since I do lots of highway driving for my job. The cabin is quiet, the standard sound system is great, and there's plenty of get-up-and-go power. I also love the distinctive styling. I've had a ton of compliments, with people saying things like 'That's a VOLVO??--COOL!'
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My wife and I love road trips, and this car has proven to be a reliable companion that can cruise for hours without any issues. We've noticed that the car just glides over the pavement. We also appreciate the peace of mind that comes with the safety features, knowing they're there in case we ever need them.
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When considering other cars in the same price range, the Volvo was the way to go. It had everything I needed, including FWD traction control and Volvo's winter drive mode, which performed incredibly well in the snow. It had good torque and plenty of speed. Who needs a powerhouse? It's simple and practical. Stop buying status symbols and think. The Volvo is also very reliable.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Volvo S60 problems:
2003 Volvo S60 Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
Top 2003 Volvo S60 Problems · Transmission Shifting Issues Due to Internal Failure and Software Issues · Front Upper Strut Mounts May Fail and Cause Noise Over ...
Most common issues and probable cost of S60 R ownership ...
Feb 1, 2013 ... ... rotors & pads, stainless steel brake lines, 17x7.5 Gold BBS Past: 2005 Volvo S60 R, 2003 VW Golf, 1998 Honda Accord. Save Share. Like ...
common 2004 s60 problems?
Nov 28, 2011 ... hi, i sadly had to get rid of my 1997 volvo s90. and im looking for another volvo. there is this 2004 s60 that appears to be in decent ...
2005 Volvo s60 t5 reliability | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance ...
Mar 17, 2011 ... The only bad thing i can think about one is the manual and that's cause it also shares the slave cylinder from the R. 2003 S60 T5M - bilstein ...
2.4 common problems? : r/Volvo
Jun 9, 2022 ... Not sure about other models, but my 2003 S60 ... They're good but if you want maximum reliability from a modern Volvo ... common issues, problems ?
Other years of Volvo S60
Are you having problems with your 2003 Volvo S60?
Brendan Schumm 2024-11-02
I am the proud owner of a 2003 S60 T5. Although my first attempt at owning a S60 T5 was unsuccessful due to a cold-starting issue, I decided to give it another try with a brand new 2003 model. Unfortunately, I am experiencing the same issue and the dealership has been unable to identify the problem. As a paying customer, I am understandably frustrated and disappointed that my confidence in the vehicle's reliability has been affected. However, I am confident that the issue will be resolved and I remain committed to my Volvo S60 T5.
Xander Sauer 2024-06-04
When I purchased my S60 AWD I thought it was going to be a great vehicle. However, I have experienced many nickel & dime mechanical problems which have been both time consuming and expensive if taken to the dealer each time. I traded an Acura CL for the Volvo, but I don't think I would do it again.
Kody Thompson 2024-04-19
We purchased this car back in 2003. It was a great sporty family car that we enjoyed for a while. Unfortunately, we started experiencing some issues shortly after. We had to deal with electrical and module problems, which cost us $2,000. Then we had transmission problems, followed by some strange sounds coming from the brakes, and a few other miscellaneous issues that we didn't quite understand. The repairs were quoted at $8,000, and we ended up spending a total of $10,000 on repairs over the course of three years. To top it all off, we recently experienced an electrical system failure that required us to have the car towed to the shop. We are currently waiting for a quote on the latest repairs, which we imagine won't be cheap. If you come across any positive reviews of this car, keep in mind that they were probably written by a dealership. We recommend staying away from this car if you can!
Reese Mills 2024-04-18
Overall, your car can run nicely. However, the service cost after your 36,000 miles is quite high - $400.00 from this dealer (Beechmont Volvo in Cincinnati) just to change the plugs and filter and call it a tune-up!
Merl Schmeler 2024-02-02
very expensive. mediocre fit and finish. sport model will cost you in tires no matter how careful. noisy. uncomfortable driver's seating even with power adjustment. cramped. lots of plastic.blind spots.unimpressive for the money. dealership price gouging. running lights will also cost you in bulbs and they are a challenge to change.stereo is ok, not great.can't believe there is no homefinder garage door opening system. exterior dents easily. overall, i wouldn't recommend this car for the price. you can do better, for sure.