2012 Volvo S80 problems
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.
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Common 2012 Volvo S80 problems
The Volvo S80, a luxury sedan produced between 2006 and 2016, has been known to have several common problems that owners have reported. These issues range from electrical glitches to mechanical faults and potential safety hazards.
- Phantom Electrical Issues: Some S80 owners have reported experiencing multiple false warning lights on the dashboard due to phantom electrical issues. These issues can be frustrating and potentially lead to unnecessary repairs or replacements. It is essential to diagnose and address these electrical problems to ensure the vehicle's proper functioning and safety.
- Timing Belt, Pulley, and Tensioner: On diesel engines, the timing belts, pulleys, and tensioners need to be replaced after around 60,000 miles or four years. Failing to replace these components can lead to engine damage or failure, which can be costly to repair.
- Interior Dirt and Stains: Some S80s were ordered with light-coloured interiors, which can show dirt and stains quite easily. These marks can make the car look uncared-for and grubby, but most should come out with a good clean.
- Potential Engine Fire: Volvo has recalled around 70,000 cars in the UK fitted with a 2.0-litre diesel engine due to potential engine fires. Owners are advised to pay attention to any unusual smells, engine warning lights, or hesitation under acceleration.
- Fuel Gauge Software Update: An issue with the fuel gauge showing the wrong level affects vehicles constructed between 24 November 2014 and 17 April 2015. A software update is being sought to correct this problem, and in the meantime, owners are advised to keep at least a third of a tank of fuel to avoid running out.
- Power Steering Auxiliary Drive Belt Tensioner: Some S80s made between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2010 may experience a loss of power steering due to a failed auxiliary drive belt tensioner. Contacting a local Volvo dealer is recommended for a new tensioner to solve this problem.
- Coolant Leak: Some S80s built between 28 May 2010 and 5 May 2015 could have a coolant leak during the warm-up process, which could result in an engine fire in extreme circumstances. Checking with a Volvo dealer to ensure your car isn't affected is advisable.
- Fuel Hose Cracks: The fuel hose used in some S80s built between 11 April 2015 and 30 March 2016 has been found to crack from the inside, which could lead to a fuel leak. A Volvo dealer can confirm whether your car is affected and provide a solution if necessary.
- Parking Brake Release: On some S80s built between 4 April 2012 and 28 January 2015 with a manual gearbox and start-stop technology, the parking brake might release without warning. This issue can be addressed by a Volvo dealer applying updated software if required.
In summary, the Volvo S80 has several common problems that owners should be aware of, including front tyre wear, phantom electrical issues, timing belt and tensioner replacement, interior stains, potential engine fires, fuel gauge inaccuracies, power steering auxiliary belt tensioner failure, coolant leaks, fuel hose cracks, and parking brake release. Regular maintenance, inspections, and addressing any recalls promptly can help ensure the S80's safe and reliable operation.
What is the common problem of Volvo S80?
Common Issues With The Volvo S80
Transmission Failures: Particularly in earlier models, transmission issues have been reported, leading to erratic shifting and, in extreme cases, complete failure. Oil Leaks: Some Volvo S80 owners have encountered engine oil leaks, most notably around seals and gaskets.
How many miles will a Volvo S80 last?
What is Volvo S80 lifespan? 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.
Is the Volvo S80 a reliable car?
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. You've come to the right place if you're looking for the most reliable Volvo S80 year.
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 2012 Volvo S80 a good car?
If it's comfort, safety and advanced technology in a more understated wrapper, we think you'll find the 2012 Volvo S80 a perfectly sensible choice.
What is the common problem of Volvo S80?
Common Issues With The Volvo S80
Transmission Failures: Particularly in earlier models, transmission issues have been reported, leading to erratic shifting and, in extreme cases, complete failure. Oil Leaks: Some Volvo S80 owners have encountered engine oil leaks, most notably around seals and gaskets.
Is the Volvo S80 a reliable car?
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. You've come to the right place if you're looking for the most reliable Volvo S80 year.
How many miles will a Volvo S80 last?
What is Volvo S80 lifespan? 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.
2012 Volvo S80 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo S80 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Unknown or other problems
- Steering problems
- Wheels problems
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Volvo S80 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2012 Volvo S80 complaints
The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Volvo S80.
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-24
- 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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-24
- VIN: YV1940AS4C1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY WIFE KAREN WAS ON HER WAY TO WORK ON FEBRUARY 24, 2020 WHEN THE DRIVER SIDE-VIEW MIRROR DETACHED, HIT THE PAVEMENT AND SHATTERED. THE INCIDENT OCCURRED AT ABOUT 7:45 AM. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY AT 140 STATESIR PLACE FOR 60 HOURS WITHOUT BEING USED AND THE MIRROR SHOWED NO SIGN OF DAMAGE PRIOR TO BEING DRIVER. THE INCIDENT OCCURRED ABOUT 800 FEET FROM OUR RESIDENCE AS SHE WAS TURNING FROM STATESIR PLACE ONTO PINE STREET NEARER TO THE CORNER .
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-10
- VIN: YV1902AH4C1
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLVO S80. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WHEEL STUDS FRACTURED FROM THE TIRE. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE SLID ONTO THE ROAD SHOULDER AND THE FENDER WAS RIPPED OFF. THERE WAS NO CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THEN TAKEN TO DEMONDTROND VOLVO (VOLVO BUILDING, 14101 NORTH FWY, HOUSTON, TX 77090, (281) 607-0382). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 138,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-29
- VIN: YV1902AH9C1
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE PASSENGER DOOR CONTINUES TO OPEN AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. I HAVE THE OPTION FOR DOORS TO LOCK WHEN CAR BEGINS TO MOVE. THE LOCK REMAINS "LOCKED" HOWEVER DOOR OPENS WITH INTERIOR LIGHTS AND DASHBOARD WARNING. I HAVE CONTACTED VOLVO TO NO END... I SEE A MULTITUDE OF DOOR OPENING ISSUES ON VOLVO FORUM SITES, AND MECHANIC STATES COMMON PROBLEM WITH VOLVO.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-28
- VIN: YV1902AHXC1
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DRIVERS SIDE REAR SUSPENSION LINK ARM FAILURE. VEHICLE TRAVELING STRAIGHT AHEAD ON EXPRESSWAY AT POSTED SPEED, 70MPH, ROAD CONDITIONS DRY AND CLEAR. NO IMPACTS OR SUDDEN MANEUVERS PRIOR TO FAILURE, I.E. CHUCK HOLE OR DEBRIS. NO TIRE OR WHEEL DAMAGE SUSTAINED PRIOR TO OR AFTER SUSPENSION FAILURE. NO IMPACT EVIDENCED UNDERNEATH VEHICLE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-01
- VIN: YV1902AH9C1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLVO S80. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE WOULD JERK VIOLENTLY WHEN ACCELERATING TO A HIGH SPEED. IN ADDITION, THE TACHOMETER FLUCTUATED CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO JERK VIOLENTLY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 12V317000 (POWER TRAIN). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,800.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-21
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS 21 JUL 2013 - SUNDAY EVENING THE TIRE LOW PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT CAME ON WHEN I PARKED MY CAR IN THE GARAGE. I LOOKED AT ALL FOUR TIRES AND FOUND NOTHING WRONG. 22 JUL 2013 - MONDAY AS SAFETY PRECAUTION I TOOK THE VEHICLE IN FOR SERVICE AND HAD THE SENSOR CHECKED. THE VOLVO SERVICE DEPARTMENT STATED; THEY CHECK THE PRESSURE IN ALL TIRES FOR LEAKS, PROPER INFLATION AND THE LIGHT WENT OUT. 23 JUL 2013 - TUESDAY MORNING ON MY WAY TO WORK THE LIGHT CAME BACK ON. AGAIN; I LOOKED AT ALL FOUR TIRES AND FOUND NOTHING WRONG. *TR
2012 Volvo S80 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2012 Volvo S80.
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA LLC
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT
- Summary: Volvo Cars of N.A., LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2008-2016 V70 and XC70, 2007-2016 S80, 2011-2018 S60 and V60, 2016-2018 S60 Cross Country, 2014-2020 S60L, 2009-2015 S80L, 2009-2016 XC60 and 2015-2018 V60 Cross Country vehicles. The flexible steel cable that connects the seat belt to the front outboard seating positions may fatigue over time, causing the seat belt to not secure the occupant in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: An unsecured occupant has an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seat belt anchor cable for both front seats. The recall began December 10, 2020. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R10029.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2013 S80 VEHICLES. A SOFTWARE ERROR MAY PREVENT THE TRANSMISSION FROM DOWNSHIFTING SUCH AS SHIFTING FROM FIFTH TO FOURTH GEAR WHEN COASTING.
- Consequence: THIS MAY RESULT IN DECREASED ENGINE RPMS AND POSSIBLE ENGINE STALL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: VOLVO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL UPGRADE THE SOFTWARE TO THE TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 10, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO CARS AT 1-800-458-1552.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 S60, XC60, S80 AND XC70 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 16, 2011, THROUGH OCTOBER 6, 2011. IN THESE VEHICLES, THE WIRE HARNESS UNDER THE FRONT SEATS MAY HAVE NOT BEEN ATTACHED PROPERLY TO THE SEAT FRAME. AS A RESULT, WHEN THE SEATS ARE MOVED TO ADJUST THE SEATING POSITION, THE WIRE HARNESS MAY GET PULLED, CAUSING IT TO DISCONNECT.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF CRASH, THE FRONT AND/OR SIDE IMPACT AIR BAGS MAY DEPLOY IMPROPERLY OR NOT AT ALL, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY. ALSO, THE LAP BELT PRETENSIONER MAY NOT DEPLOY.
- Remedy: VOLVO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, SECURE THE SEAT WIRE HARNESS. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 12, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO CARS AT 1-800-458-1552.
Negative 2012 Volvo S80 car reviews
Positive 2012 Volvo S80 car reviews
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My 3rd Volvo S-60x2 now S-80. I love Volvos, always have and always will. I bought this one used from City Auto in Memphis and have no complaints whatsoever. It's sturdy, dependable, sleek, and comfortable. The gas mileage is good and the maintenance is reasonable. If you need a good Volvo mechanic in Memphis, TN, I highly recommend Swedish Solutions. I love this car and wouldn't trade it for anything except another Volvo.
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The Volvo S80 is such a great car! I have had mine for 10 years and I absolutely love it. It is reliable, sporty, and fun to drive. The interior is made of real leather and wood, and it is roomy enough with seats that fold down for long packages. The only thing to note is that there is a slight hesitation when you step on the gas, but it is something you can get used to. Volvo told me that this model has that issue, even though it is a peppy 6 cylinder.
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I have owned five Volvos, three of which were S80s. While I have noticed a decline in the quality of materials over the years, I still believe that the 2004 2.5t AWD was the best S80 model. However, I have experienced some issues with the SIMULATED metal and wood on the shifting console, which has started to bubble and come off after a few years. Additionally, I have found it difficult to maintain a straight line on uneven surfaces and have noticed some pulsing in the steering when making turns. Despite these issues, I still appreciate the ride and comfort of the car. However, I hope that Volvo will address these concerns in future models.
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Comparing my new 2010 S80, 3.2 to what I have driven before, such as the Audi A6, 2.7T, Volvo XC90 3.2 and Volvo S60 T5, I have to say that while it may not be the fastest car I've driven, it certainly has its own charm. I do miss that extra punch when I floor it, but the dealer did warn me that it wasn't as fast as what I was used to driving. However, I got a great deal on it and I'm really happy with my purchase. The car is elegant both on the outside and inside, with a signature Volvo design that has a slight modern flair, making people look twice. The enlarged name and logo really make a statement too. It handles well, and while I'm not completely blown away, I'm still impressed. The comfort is unrivaled and the engine is incredibly quiet.
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I got this car for the technology package, since my father is getting old and has already been in more than one major accident. The car works great and is at the pinnacle of safety features, such as the pedestrian sensing camera, auto brakes, and cruise control that distances itself from the car ahead. However, Volvo seems to have forgotten that most of their customers are elderly. I just received a call from my father saying that he doesn't know how to turn off the defroster and that the window has been fogging his windows. He still can't control the AC, despite having had this car for months. The controls are complicated and unintuitive. If you're reading this, Volvo, please consider making the controls simpler.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Volvo S80 problems:
2012 Volvo S80 Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Top 2012 Volvo S80 Problems · Transmission Will Not Shift Properly. 175 people have reported this. 67 · Automatic Transmission Shifts Too Hard. 18 people have ...
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Other years of Volvo S80
Are you having problems with your 2012 Volvo S80?
Newton Littel 2024-10-09
The leather seats may not be as appealing during the freezing temperatures of January. I realized that my S80 does not have heated seats, which was a detail I overlooked when I purchased the car last August.
Bo Kautzer 2024-01-02
The car has good performance and a stylish interior and exterior. The seats are very comfortable, and fuel economy is reasonable for this class of car. However, there is an odd quirk where you have to pull twice on the door handle to get the door to open. Despite this, the car has some great tech features, such as adaptive cruise control, which is my personal favorite. Although, it's worth noting that if you come to a complete stop, it disengages after a couple of seconds. The infotainment system, including navigation, has been a bit of a letdown for me. The moving map has few road labels, and the inputs are not intuitive. Unfortunately, there is no touch screen, so the controls can be a bit clunky. Even the menus for settings were hard for the sales reps and service people to figure out. Voice commands are slow and plodding, and the navigation update installed an incorrect database with incorrect information on road accessibility, including major freeway intersections. Navigation updates have to be done with the car running and at a stop, which takes several hours. Additionally, the infotainment system turns off after a few minutes, even though the energy required to listen to music is relatively small. Smart phone connectivity is also unreliable. It's a shame that the infotainment system is not as tech-savvy as it claims to be, especially considering how good the rest of the car is.