Volvo S80 problems

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The Volvo S80 is an executive car produced by the Swedish manufacturer Volvo Cars from 1998 to 2016 across two generations. It took the place of the rear-wheel-drive S90 as Volvo's flagship sedan.

The first generation (1998–2006) was made available for the 1999 model year. It has since been built at the Torslanda Works in Gothenburg, Sweden, with a few 1999 model year cars for the North American market built at Volvo's Halifax Assembly plant. Unlike most Volvo models, it did not have a station wagon version for its first generation.

The second generation (2006–2016) was released in 2006 as a model year 2007 car. It has an estate version, the third generation of the Volvo V70. In June 2007, the S80 scored the highest "good" rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash test performance for frontal, side, and rear impacts, earning it the IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The model was replaced by the second generation S90 in the later half of 2016.

photo of Volvo S80 car production

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Volvo S80 model years

volvo s80 2016 photo
S80 2016
Volvo

6

2

17

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2015 photo
S80 2015
Volvo

7

2

17

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2014 photo
S80 2014
Volvo

1

1

26

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2013 photo
S80 2013
Volvo

8

3

25

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2012 photo
S80 2012
Volvo

7

3

18

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2011 photo
S80 2011
Volvo

5

4

19

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2010 photo
S80 2010
Volvo

23

5

16

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2009 photo
S80 2009
Volvo

15

5

24

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2008 photo
S80 2008
Volvo

24

7

18

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2007 photo
S80 2007
Volvo

24

5

22

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2006 photo
S80 2006
Volvo

11

4

28

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2005 photo
S80 2005
Volvo

15

6

29

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2004 photo
S80 2004
Volvo

50

5

28

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2003 photo
S80 2003
Volvo

29

6

20

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2002 photo
S80 2002
Volvo

45

5

31

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2001 photo
S80 2001
Volvo

180

8

29

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 2000 photo
S80 2000
Volvo

345

5

29

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo s80 1999 photo
S80 1999
Volvo

214

5

29

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Volvo S80 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Volvo S80, several common problems have been reported:

  • Engine Stalling and Fuel Odor:
    • Owners have reported instances of the engine stalling regularly, accompanied by a strong fuel odor and fuel spots on the ground beneath the car. This issue is often caused by rapid wear of the fuel hose, leading to a fuel pipe crack. The recommended solution is to replace the fuel pipe, which can be easily sourced through parts suppliers or potentially repaired by Volvo.
  • Front Control Arm Bushings Wear:
    • A squeaking or knocking sound from the front of the car, along with the vehicle pulling to one side during straight driving, indicates potential issues with the front control arm bushings. These components are prone to premature wear and may require replacement to prevent alignment problems. If the car is pulling to one side, a full realignment overhaul may be necessary.
  • Steering Wheel Module Failure:
    • Failure of the steering wheel module (SWM) can result in the malfunction of turn signals, horn, audio buttons, and cruise control. The SWM is known to be temperamental and prone to complete failure. Replacing the module is the recommended solution, which can be a technical job but guided instructions are available online to assist with the replacement process.
  • ABS Control Module Failure:
    • The ABS control module in the first generation of the Volvo S80 is prone to failure, leading to the appearance of the ABS warning light on the dashboard. To address this issue, owners will need to replace the ABS control module to resolve the problem.

These common problems reported by Volvo S80 owners highlight various issues ranging from electrical components to engine-related concerns. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these issues can help ensure the longevity and reliability of the Volvo S80.

Volvo S80

Is the Volvo S80 a reliable car?

But beyond the luxury and innovation, certain vintages of the S80 have become well-known for their rock-solid reliability. According to RepairPal, the Volvo S80 has an average reliability rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars and is currently ranked 17th out of 32 car makers.

How long do Volvo S80s last?

The estimated lifespan of a Volvo S80 is 178,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy. Don't just buy it, VehicleScore it.

Are Volvo S80 expensive to maintain?

Average annual repair cost: $705

If the repair record is your top concern when buying a luxury full-size car, look at the Volvo S80 as you shop. Its annual average repair cost runs almost $300 less than the other models in the segment, and its reliability ranking of four easily beats the average of 2.5 out of 5.

Is the Volvo S80 a safe car?

The cars tested are evaluated in both a frontal crash test and in a side impact test. In July 1999, the Volvo S80 became the first car in the world to score full points for both driver and passenger protection in side-impact tests.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Volvo S80 years

We have researched Volvo problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volvo S80 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volvo S80 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volvo S80 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Volvo S80 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Volvo S80 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Volvo S80 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Volvo S80 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by S80 model years

A total of 49 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by S80 model years

There were a total of 24 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by S80 model years

There were a total of 43 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 1009 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volvo S80 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volvo S80 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Volvo S80 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-02
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-23
  • VIN: YV140MAK3G1
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: I have a 2016Volvo S80. this is my 7th Volvo I have owned. 4 Months ago my car stalled in the middle of ther road. I had no power with the gas petal. Truck behind me trird not to hit me and our sides touched scapping my car and passenger mirrow. The police offier did not charge either of us. I thought I had bad gas?? Took into my mechanic who only works on volvos he di 75,000 service work and changed the oil. I told him about what happened. Two weeks ago My car light came on no oil pressure stop immediately again was like several months ago i had no power with gas petal. I pulled over light went off. My mechanic was closed at that time so I went to Advance Auto. I have no measure stick for oil you have to go through the car system to check oil level. It stated not low however we put in a quart of Synethic oil and I dropped it off at my mechant. He called me the next day. He stated their was no oil in my car at all and their was no leak. Changed oil new filter another $150.00. He did some research on my car. My car is a year included in a class action lawsuit for faulty engine pistons problem. This lawsuit was settled out of court so no one knows for how much. So I am risking my life with a car that will require a new engine appox $8000.00. Volvo has never recalled these cars. I am afraid to drive it now!!!! A 7 time Volvo owner. You see all kinds of stupid recalls but when your engine stops in the middle of the road this is very dangerous. My mechanic states I need to take to a dealership for this problem. Called Volvo Midlothian VA they can not even look at my car till September. I Have called the other dealership in Richmond VA and they are doing some research and get back to me. If you google this their are 100,s of owners having the same problems that my car has and not one recall.
Volvo S80 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-24
  • Date Complaint: 2024-03-25
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: YV1952AS7C1
  • Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: A batch of metal used for the steering wheel trim prematurely wears down at the base of the steering wheel in 2 locations out of sight with normal use and becomes razor sharp. When turning the wheel, the spinning razor edge can cause the driver to lose control due to sudden pain due to slicing into the fingers. The metal slices into the skin drawing blood much like that of a papercut. I have experienced sudden cuts in turning on 2 separate occasions recently having to re-grab the steering wheel due to involuntary pain reflex release to prevent total loss of control and the problem has not been confirmed by the dealer. There is no prior warning when this issue suddenly occurs.
Volvo S80 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-11
  • Date Complaint: 2024-02-12
  • VIN: YV1902MM8F1
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: Most concerning: Front driver door latch quit working while driving leaving door to swing open during traffic. This is a known issue that led to recalls of other Volvo models (2011 - 2017), but the S80 was excluded. It was a terrifying ordeal that has now happened twice (during freezing conditions here in Colorado). Less concerning to me but a problem: The blindspot monitoring system malfunctions and keeps on blinking even when there's nothing in the blindspot - which betrays the reason it exists.
Volvo S80 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-02-05
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: See attached document for complaint
Volvo S80 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-01-17
  • VIN: YV1902AHXD1
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: My drivers side door latch will no longer open from the inside or the outside. I have to climb across to the passenger side and go out the opposite door. I am reporting this because this vehicle is part of the volvo "P3" platform which includes the S60, and they had a huge recall to replace all the door latch mechanisms for this exact reason.
Volvo S80 2007
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
  • Date Complaint: 2023-10-17
  • VIN: YV1AH852671
  • Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Volvo S80. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle during a rainstorm; rainwater leaked into the vehicle from the top section of the driver's side of the windshield, creating a visibility hazard for the driver. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The local dealer was not contacted regarding the failure. The failure mileage was 150,000.
Volvo S80 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-20
  • Date Complaint: 2023-08-24
  • VIN: YV1960AS1A1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: The air bag warning randomly popped up on my screen. They will not deploy if I get into a wreck. Non working air bag. I also have issues that come and go with the electrical component. Sometimes my door won't open, sometimes my seats won't move, and my license plate light is out due to something electrical. My gas tank spits gas back at me and makes weird noises sometimes.
Volvo S80 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-11
  • Date Complaint: 2023-06-12
  • VIN: YV1992AH3A1
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: I was driving down the road at 60mph, and my car started to wobble a little bit. I pulled over to see if something was obviously wrong and I didn't notice anything. At this point I thought that maybe I needed a new rear shock, but when I got back on the road, the wobble was so bad that I couldn't drive 25mph. I drove about 20mph until I could get to a safe place to pull over which was only about a mile. I took the wheel off and this was the moment that I noticed the tire had swelled up to the point that it wouldn't stand upright. It just fell over. I bought the tire (Riken Raptor) brand new 11 months ago. There is still a lot of tread on the tire. I had the presence of mind to pull over as soon as I noticed something wasn't right. I fear that if I had been on an interstate highway going 70mph, then something really bad may have happened.
Volvo S80 2003
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-03-15
  • Date Complaint: 2023-06-10
  • VIN: YV1TS91Z731
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: In Tank Fuel Pump, problem was leaking at top of pump @ the inlet at the outlet & return valve, crack in the plastic mold. Was giving off fumes, totally unhealthy and waitin for someone to light up a cigarette for a total car explosion and death for all occupants. I have replaced the pump myself. Local Dealer wanted 1100 plus to replace out of my budget This in my view it should have been done by recall, local Jim Volvo of Portland, Oregon said no, out of warranty period. I disagree, If unrepaired, I would have been risking me and my family or occupants in the vehicle at the time. There are still many of these cars and other models & years that I found my research on the web that has had this same problem. I have a 1998 Volvo s70 that appears to be developing the same issue. I had come to like my 2003 S80, it will be my last Volvo My cost so far About $150, and 1st pump I installed was defective, had to start over [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Volvo S80 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-19
  • Date Complaint: 2023-05-28
  • VIN: YV1960AS0A1
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Leaking windshield. Notice Glass loose from top of windshield.Water leaking down into car on passenger and driver side. Floors soak and wet. Unable to drive in rain car smells due to wet floors. This windshield never was changed, it is the original. This is a Safety issue. This should be a recall. Made an appointment with Volvo dealership on 5/22/2023, they confirmed the windshield leak, water coming in from the top of the windshield. Advise to reseal or replace was told glass will continue to come loose if not taken care of. The windshield can cause an injury or accident if it comes a part while I'm driving. Many volvo's owners have this defective windshield. The leak is due to poor sealing during manufacturing of the vehicle's. This issue should be on the recall list and repairs done for free. All owners who had to pay for this repair should be reimbursed.The floor rugs should also be included in the recall, because it can cause health issue like mold, which is unhealthy. Safety for your customers should always come first.
Volvo S80 2007
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-28
  • Date Complaint: 2023-05-28
  • VIN: YV1AH852571
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: These generation of Volvo p3 platform cars had a defective windshield seal that was not the best from the factory. Many cars of this generation (S60, S80, XC90, etc) have had the seals break, causing extreme water leakage as mine has had. And the possibility of the windshield falling out. Mine is bad enough that pushing it lightly from the inside to create a significant gap in the window and the frame of the A pillar. There are many forums and reports of this exact problem and Volvo has yet to voluntarily recall these cars. Many people have reported it to many dealers, but all say they cant replace them. This problem definitely puts the driver and other people in the cabin in danger. And no warning lights go off in relation to the problem. I appreciate your consideration.
Volvo S80 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-02
  • Date Complaint: 2023-05-02
  • VIN: YV1AS982191
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: For the last several years I’ve been complaining about my TPMS ALWAYS reflecting a “Low Tire Pressure “ response. Recently I went in for a oil change but indicated the my tire pressure light was on again. I take the Volvo to a shop I trust. Global AutoWorks in GrandHaven. They took care of my previous owned BMW without any issues. I put in Volvo S80’s recall site and found that there was a recall on 10/07/2010. The vehicle was a private purchase made in January 8, 2018 from the original owner. Upon purchase I made the decision to put new tires on the vehicle to see if that would fix the problem. $1200.00 later and the problem was not resolved. I do not feel that I should pay for safety issue that the company knew about. I spoke to the previous owner and she did not receive a letter from Volvo. The Volvo is in very good condition with low mileage for a 14 year old car. 69,815. Second issue: Seat belt issue. Reason for recall: Volvo car investigations have identified a problem regarding the front seat fastening. All I can tell you if I lean forward abruptly the seat belt will not tighten or secure itself. Recall R10029 Again we have safety issue. I would like Volvo to fix both issues At Their Expense not mine. Both owners have maintained this vehicle in beautiful condition and these issues were not the result of the owners.They are Volvos issues. I would greatly appreciate someone at Volvo looking into these issues and bringing forward a resolution.
Volvo S80 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-11-09
  • Date Complaint: 2023-04-28
  • VIN: YV1960AS9A1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: The warning, charging failure service urgent is displayed the service engine light comes on. Several mechanics have not be able to repair. The front passenger seat belt is not stable to fasten properly. The TMPS has yet another warning, inoperable
Volvo S80 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-02-08
  • Date Complaint: 2023-02-08
  • VIN: YV140MAM6G1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact called on behalf of his wife who owns a 2016 Volvo S80. The contact stated that the engine auto Start/Stop function was not operating as needed and the vehicle had a delay to start automatically upon releasing the brake pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where an unknown repair was completed; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at various speeds and driving over a pothole, the check engine warning light would illuminate. The vehicle was taken to a local Pep Boys, where it was diagnosed that the ignition coil of cylinder #1 had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Volvo S80 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-01-04
  • Date Complaint: 2023-01-08
  • VIN: YV1TS592561
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: SAFETY RECALL R10125 for this vehicle has not been performed as of this date; received Safety Recall Notice letter from Volvo Car USA LLC 29 NOV 2021; have contacted dealer once immediately upon receipt of letter; Volvo Corporation 4 to 6 times telephonic and email with the last response (Volvo is looking into it) on 15 DEC 2022 upon which I have again responded with an email for a status check. My perception is that this VIN number has a three spoke steering wheel which would have to be manufactured (not four and requires different airbag) and that is not going to happen (last unoffical response from Volvo dealer in Jan 2022). Request assitance from NHTSA. Phone no is 5302647381 home or 7573282950 I could not find a way to report this failure to perform safety recall on your website

Latest 5 recalls Volvo S80

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 81 recalls for different components of the Volvo S80.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Volvo S80 2004
  • Report Received Date: 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.
  • Model: Volvo S80 2001
  • Report Received Date: 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.
  • Model: Volvo S80 2006
  • Report Received Date: 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.
  • Model: Volvo S80 2005
  • Report Received Date: 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.
  • Model: Volvo S80 2003
  • Report Received Date: 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.

Latest negative Volvo S80 car reviews

  1. Adalberto Bins 2025-02-21

    Vehicle year: 2001

    I bought this car as a dealer loaner, which I now realize was not the best decision. However, the price was right. Over the past two years, I have had to replace six bulbs of some type, and now I am dealing with a seventh one that needs to be replaced. I also had to replace some front suspension parts at 33K, but thankfully it was under warranty. The sunroof has been fixed three times, and now I suspect there may be a broken motor mount as there is a thump in the steering at low speeds. The air mass meter was replaced by the dealership at 45K, which was covered under warranty. All of this on a $40K automobile. While I cannot blame the dealership as they have been great, I am left wondering why the Japanese seem to have a better handle on car manufacturing than the Europeans. As someone who has been driving Volvos for 20 years, this may be my last one!

  2. Deshaun Okuneva 2025-02-17

    Vehicle year: 1999

    This car has some reliability issues, particularly with expensive electronic failures and plastic parts that do not stand up to UV exposure and disintegrate. The sway bars and rubber washers under the McPherson also require frequent replacement. Additionally, the dashboard is not very user-friendly. However, despite these issues, the car still has many positive features worth considering.

  3. Diego Sanford 2025-02-08

    Vehicle year: 2000

    I agree with the other review that after 5 years, some parts of my Volvo started to fall apart. Unfortunately, the repair labor charge is quite high. Even a $50 plastic part would require 6 to 8 hours of labor to replace, according to the dealer. They claimed that these parts are very difficult to reach. Although I like my Volvo car, the high repair costs will definitely make me reconsider having a Volvo for my next car. Now, every time I take my car to the shop, I cannot get it back without paying $1300 - $2300. Recently, they told me that the oil trap needs to be replaced, which was already replaced 2 years ago, and it costs a little more than $1000.

  4. Duncan Satterfield 2025-02-06

    Vehicle year: 2002

    It seems like your car has spent more time in the shop than on the road.

  5. Dereck Leannon 2025-01-23

    Vehicle year: 2002

    Volvo promotes its safety features, but unfortunately, some customers have experienced issues with their vehicles. If you're considering a Volvo, it may be worth researching common issues and potential solutions. However, it's important to note that every car brand has its own set of problems. We encourage you to make an informed decision based on your personal needs and preferences.

Latest positive Volvo S80 car reviews

  1. Louie Von 2025-02-21

    Vehicle year: 2013

    Although this car may be considered old now, it still offers great value. I've owned many cars, including Mercedes and Acura, but there's something about the sheer simplicity of Volvo that keeps their owners loyal...

  2. Arnold Kunze 2025-02-21

    Vehicle year: 2004

    Great ride! The performance is smooth and very responsive to braking and acceleration - truly superior quality! I previously owned a 2K S80 which unfortunately was totaled in an accident with a power pole. However, the safety performance was perfect with no broken glass and no significant injuries. That's why I immediately came back for the 2004 2.9. It's easy to drive and has very adequate acceleration at highway speeds.

  3. Hazel Wolff 2025-02-20

    Vehicle year: 2000

    I recently purchased a 2000 Volvo S80 T6 with high mileage for a reasonable price of 2k. The body was in great shape and the motor runs so quietly that you can hardly tell it's on. The car handles great and has more power than my A4 or A6. The interior design looks fantastic, although there is a small issue with the seat belt buckle catching and tearing the leather on the door skin. This can be easily fixed with a V seat belt support. While the turning radius is lacking, it still handles better than any American car. With a slight modification to the air box, the car is now fast. Overall, it has been the best 200k car I have seen, and I am confident it will make it to 400k. As for costs, parts are no longer expensive on eBay and Craigslist.

  4. Kevon Auer 2025-02-19

    Vehicle year: 2001

    This car is a very well-built vehicle and is very comfortable on long trips. The ride is very smooth, and with twin turbos, the accelerator can quickly and smoothly bring you to the attention of the traffic police without the driver realizing it. Although tire noise is noticeable with the high-performance radial tires, the standard sound system is very good with great sound quality.

  5. Gabe Stanton 2025-02-19

    Vehicle year: 2008

    I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with the Volvo AWD in the New Hampshire mountains. I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it performed compared to the BMW, Benz, and Audi alternatives in this size class. Even though I'm a huge fan of BMW, the Volvo was the clear winner for me. I purchased the car this summer during the $4/gallon gas era and got a fantastic deal that the other brands could not match. The ride is nice and quiet with adequate power, although it's not as well balanced as the BMW5 and drives a little front heavy in some cornering. However, given the price point, I would still purchase this car even if I moved out of the snow belt. The interior/exterior styling is excellent and I don't see too many others on the road, so it has a nice unique look relative to the ubiquitous Audi, Volvo S60, 4matics, etc. I hope this helps you in your search for a new car!

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