2009 Volvo S60 problems

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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.

2009 Volvo S60

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Common 2009 Volvo S60 problems

The 2009 Volvo S60 has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. These issues span across different categories, including wheels/hubs, electrical, body/paint, fuel system, engine, seat belts/air bags, and miscellaneous problems.

One of the most reported problems is related to the wheels/hubs category. This issue is characterized by a noise coming from the front hubs or bearings, which can be a sign of wear or damage. This problem has been reported by numerous owners, and it seems to be a common issue with the 2009 Volvo S60.

Another problem reported by owners is related to the electrical system. This issue is characterized by the car's electrical system failing, causing the car to stall or fail to start. This problem has been reported by several owners, and it seems to be a common issue with the 2009 Volvo S60.

The fuel system has also been reported to have issues. This problem is characterized by the fuel pump failing, causing the car to stall or fail to start. This issue has been reported by several owners, and it seems to be a common problem with the 2009 Volvo S60.

The engine has also been reported to have problems. This issue is characterized by the engine misfiring or running poorly, which can be a sign of wear or damage. This problem has been reported by several owners, and it seems to be a common issue with the 2009 Volvo S60.

The seat belts/air bags system has also been reported to have issues. This problem is characterized by the airbags failing to deploy in an accident, which can be a serious safety concern. This issue has been reported by several owners, and it seems to be a common problem with the 2009 Volvo S60.

Lastly, there have been miscellaneous problems reported by owners. These issues are not categorized, but they include problems with the car's interior, exterior, and other components. These problems have been reported by several owners, and they seem to be a common issue with the 2009 Volvo S60.

In summary, the 2009 Volvo S60 has several common problems, including issues with the wheels/hubs, electrical system, fuel system, engine, seat belts/air bags, and miscellaneous components. These problems have been reported by numerous owners, and they seem to be a common issue with this car model. It is essential to be aware of these issues and address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of the car.

2009 Volvo S60 engine

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?

Quality and Reliability 71.0/100

The 2024 Volvo S60 has a predicted reliability score of 71 out of 100.

Are Volvo S60 expensive to repair?

The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Volvo S60 is $750, compared to an average of $739 for luxury midsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models.

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.

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?

Quality and Reliability 71.0/100

The 2024 Volvo S60 has a predicted reliability score of 71 out of 100.

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.

Are Volvo S60 expensive to maintain?

The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Volvo S60 is $750, compared to an average of $739 for luxury midsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models.

2009 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:

  • Air bags problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Structure problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Volvo S60 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2009 Volvo S60 complaints

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Volvo S60.

2023-09-28

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-24
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: YV1RS592492
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Driving at 25 mph and the airbag spontaneously deployed. Exploded. Dust. Noise. No impact no accident. Hurt my hand. Busted the turn signal arm Caused me to drive over a median and damage the under carriage of the car.
2021-12-18

AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-12-18
  • VIN: YV1RS592592
  • Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I am unable to service my car to fix the recall, because there is no Volvo dealer where I live.
2020-04-21

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-08-15
  • VIN: YV1RS592992
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 VOLVO S60. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR OPENED INDEPENDENTLY ON 10/19. CONSUMER MENTIONED THAT WHEN SHE HITS A BUMP THE DOOR AJAR WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED, AT ANY SPEED. CONSUMER ALSO STATED DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN FROM OUTSIDE WHEN UNLOCKED, THIS WOULD HAPPEN ONCE IN AWHILE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.*DT*JB
2017-05-01

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-03-30
  • VIN: JF1GH61648H
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: ACCELERATING ON INTERSTATE AND ALL OF A SUDDEN COMPLETY LOST ENGINE POWER. ENGINE WOULD CONTINUE RUNNING, BUT WOULD NOT ACCELERATE. COULD HAVE EASILY GOTTEN INTO A WRECK IF THERE HAD BEEN MORE TRAFFIC ON THE INTERSTATE. ENDED UP GETTING TOWED AND HAVING TO REPLACE THE THROTTLE UNIT WHICH COST ALMOST $1000, THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION WITH A VERY BAD OUTCOME IF TRAFFIC HAD BEEN HEAVIER.
2015-04-09

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-06-10
  • VIN: YV1RS592992
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,TIRES
  • Summary: I KEEP GETTING A MESSAGE THAT THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM NEEDS SERVICE EVEN THOUGH THE TIRES HAVE THE CORRECT PRESSURE. I BELIEVE THERE IS A DEFECT IN THIS SAFETY RELATED SYSTEM. IT IS AN ISSUE THAT MANY VOLVO OWNERS HAVE REPORTED, YET VOLVO CONTINUALLY FAILS TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE. *TR
2010-05-20

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-05-20
  • VIN: YV1RH592392
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: 2009 VOLVO S60 AWD - WHEN FILLING WITH GASOLINE AT VARIOUS GAS STATIONS, GASOLINE OVERFLOWS AND SPILLS OUT OF THE FUEL FILLER NECK WHEN THE TANK IS FULL. THIS IS WITH THE LOCK MECHANISM ENGAGED ON THE GAS PUMP HANDLE. I HAVE OBSERVED THIS AT MULTIPLE GAS STATIONS AND DIFFERENT PUMPS AT THOSE GAS STATIONS. I HAVE TAKEN OTHER VEHICLES TO THE SAME STATIONS AND PUMPS AND FILLED THEIR TANKS IN THE SAME FASHION, AND THE LOCK MECHANISM ON THE PUMP HANDLE AUTOMATICALLY DISENGAGES AND NO GAS OVERFLOWS WHEN THE TANK IS FULL AND REACHES CAPACITY. I HAVE ALREADY TAKEN THIS VEHICLE ONCE PREVIOUSLY IN SEPTEMBER 2009 AND THEY FOUND NO ISSUE. I AM TIRED OF DEALING WITH IT AND WORRIED ABOUT A FIRE OCCURRING DUE TO THIS. THE GAS SPILLS OUT AND ON TO THE PAINT ON THAT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE AND ONTO THE GROUND. *TR

2009 Volvo S60 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2009 Volvo S60.

2021-09-30
  • 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.
2010-11-22
  • Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH POWER FRONT PASSENGER SEATS. THE FRONT SEAT RAIL'S DETECTION SYSTEM WAS MANUFACTURED INCORRECTLY AND MAY PERMIT THE PASSENGER TO FORWARD THE SEAT BEYOND THE INTENDED MAXIMUM.
  • Consequence: POSITIONING OF THE SEAT BEYOND THE INTENDED MAXIMUM CAN CAUSE INCREASED RISK OF INJURY TO THE PASSENGER IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FRONT POWER SEAT STOPS FOR BOTH FRONT SEATS FOR THE PRESENCE OF AN "END STOP" AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES AS NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 23, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552 OR AT [email protected].
2010-11-08
  • 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.

Negative 2009 Volvo S60 car reviews

  1. Peter Bosco 2024-11-26

    The MPG is slightly lower than the 04 V70 2.5t wagon, but it did improve a bit with new tires. I've had it for about 2 years and find the front seats to be very comfortable. However, it doesn't drive quite as smoothly as the older wagon.

  2. Jorge Skiles 2024-06-12

    My company provided me with an S60. Although it may not be my first choice if I were spending my own money, I have found it to be a comfortable highway car with great straight-line acceleration. However, I have noticed that the S60 does not handle curves and corners as well due to its weight and vague steering, which can be a bit unsettling. Despite these issues, I have only experienced minor problems such as a loose passenger side door seal, which was fixed during an oil change service, and a rattle near the passenger door frame that I have been unable to locate. I have also found that the passenger seat can be uncomfortable on long trips due to its awkward orientation within the car.

  3. Lourdes Thompson 2024-05-08

    I purchased the car used with 53,000 miles on it. Unfortunately, I experienced some issues with the radiator after only 3 weeks of ownership. Additionally, the power locks and power seats have been malfunctioning. The car also failed inspection due to an issue with the axel rod. At 58,000 miles, the check engine light came on and the coolant level dropped to zero, which required me to shut off the car to prevent engine damage. As a result of these issues, I am currently exploring the option of trading the car for a Japanese model.

  4. Trent Friesen 2024-04-11

    When I first bought this car, I really liked it. However, I have come to regret my purchase. It seems to be too small for a person of average size, and the back seat is not spacious enough for even a child. The trunk space is also not very practical. Although it is marketed as a sport sedan, it does not quite live up to that expectation. Additionally, the gas mileage is poor for a car of its size and with only 5 cylinders. Unfortunately, the reliability of the car is also suspect. I have had to take it to the dealership 4 times in the past 4 months for two intermittent problems, one with the antilock brakes and the other with the radio. The second problem has yet to be resolved, and the dealer has not been able to fix it without keeping the car for a week at a time. In conclusion, I would advise against making the same mistake I did and instead consider purchasing a Japanese car.

  5. Braeden Price 2024-04-03

    I found that repairs for my used Volvo S60 were very expensive. Over the course of less than 2 years, I put over 24K miles on it and had to repair major issues every other month. This was a stark contrast to my 2001 Honda Accord EX, which I put over 240K miles on and only had to repair minor issues. Unfortunately, the additional warranty I purchased from the dealership did not cover anything related to the suspension, which was a major issue. While I spent more on repairs for my S60 than I ever did on my Accord, I believe this is because I bought my Accord brand new and took very good care of it. I suspect that the previous owner of the Volvo drove it roughly and did not take great care of it. Overall, I found the Volvo to be too expensive to maintain and not very reliable. As I head into my second winter with the car, I am not expecting much. If you are considering purchasing a Volvo, be warned that repairs can be costly and the suspension and handling may not be up to par.

Positive 2009 Volvo S60 car reviews

  1. Elwyn Hermann 2025-01-03

    I bought this car with 89,000 miles after driving my parents' 2012 S60 and falling in love with it. Once you hit the road, it's great. There is some road noise, but that's to be expected from an older, smaller car. The idle is basically silent, and the engine sounds amazing. Mine has the upgraded Dolby Pro Logic 2 sound system, and it's very loud with great quality, but the bass just isn't there. The speakers are very capable, but the settings just won't let you crank up the bass. One thing to note is that when you drive really slowly (like when parking) and it's just warming up, it shakes and rattles a lot. My T5 averages around 24 mpg with mixed driving. Most of all, you'll fall in love with this car, and you can't say that about any Japanese or German rival.

  2. Moses Dach 2024-11-04

    I purchased my Volvo S60 T5 back in July and I am absolutely thrilled with it! The included features are excellent and it is a sporty sedan that is definitely fun to drive. If you're in the market for a new car, I highly recommend giving the S60 a test drive. I test drove half a dozen cars when I was shopping around and the S60 was by far the nicest car for the price.

  3. Donnell Kuvalis 2024-10-20

    I've had my R for about 6 months and I couldn't be happier. I was a little nervous after reading some of the edmunds reviews, but I can honestly say that I have been thrilled thus far. I got mine with the sport package. Like many, I was looking at the IS350 and the GS. This car is a hoot to drive, not as throaty and braggadocious as the Infiniti, and feels bigger inside (at least the front seat) than the Lexus.

  4. Corbin Morar 2024-10-04

    This car is an excellent all-around performer, offering great value for money. The brakes are superb, and the car feels surprisingly light when driven hard in the mountains or on the track. With DTSC on, the active yaw control makes it even more fun to drive. Don't be put off by negative comments from other reviewers. The R model has vented brake rotors, the gas cap is conveniently located on the side of the car away from traffic, and there is a 6 CD changer option. To mute the radio, simply turn it off. The key fob opens the trunk if you press the trunk button twice, as stated in the manual. Although it's not the best design, the instructions are right there in the book. Additionally, the trunk opens with the touch of a button when you unlock the doors.

  5. Nicolas Legros 2024-09-09

    As a loyal Volvo customer, I am pleased to say that this is my fourth Volvo. The AWD system is truly impressive, providing excellent traction and stability. Although the car is heavier than my previous T5 S60, the interior is almost identical. The drive is incredibly powerful, and the geartronic transmission provides exhilarating acceleration, making the car an absolute joy to drive. The leather seats, high-quality stereo, and other luxurious features are just the right amount of indulgence for me. However, I am disappointed to report that I have encountered some issues with the car's temperature gauge and fan, which will require a visit to the repair shop. Despite this setback, I remain confident in the overall quality and performance of my Volvo.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2009 Volvo S60 problems:

2009 Volvo S60 Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
2009 Volvo S60 Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2009-volvo-s60/problems

Top 2009 Volvo S60 Problems · Transmission Shifting Issues Due to Internal Failure and Software Issues · Front Upper Strut Mounts May Fail and Cause Noise Over ...

2009 Volvo S60 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2009 Volvo S60 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/volvo/s60/2009/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2009 Volvo S60? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

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Other years of Volvo S60

volvo s60 2011 photo
S60 2011
Volvo

5

6

3

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s60 2012 photo
S60 2012
Volvo

117

8

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s60 2013 photo
S60 2013
Volvo

82

4

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s60 2014 photo
S60 2014
Volvo

23

3

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s60 2015 photo
S60 2015
Volvo

52

2

23

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s60 2016 photo
S60 2016
Volvo

26

4

12

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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2009 Volvo S60 photo