Volvo V70 problems
The Volvo V70 is an executive car manufactured and marketed by Volvo Cars from 1996 to 2016 across three generations. The name V70 combines the letter V, standing for versatility, and 70, denoting relative platform size (i.e., a V70 is larger than a V40, but smaller than a V90).
The first generation (1996–2000) debuted in November 1996. It was based on the P80 platform and was available with front and all-wheel drive (AWD), the latter marketed as the V70 AWD. In September 1997, a crossover version called the V70 XC or V70 Cross Country was introduced. The sedan model was called Volvo S70.
The second generation (2000–2007) debuted in spring 2000. It was based on the P2 platform and, as with its predecessor, was also offered as an all-wheel drive variant marketed as the V70 AWD and as a crossover version initially called V70 XC. For the 2003 model year, the crossover was renamed to XC70. The sedan model was called Volvo S60.
The third generation (2007–2016) debuted in February 2007. It was based on the P3 platform and marketed as the V70 and the XC70. Production of the V70 ended on 25 April 2016, the XC70 continued until 13 May 2016. The sedan model was called Volvo S80.
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Volvo V70 model years
Common Volvo V70 problems
The Volvo V70 is a popular car known for its rugged look and stylish design, but it is not without its common problems. Here are some of the issues that Volvo V70 owners have reported:
Suspension Problems: Volvo has stated that the V70 was not meant for serious off-roading due to potential suspension problems. The suspension can wear out prematurely, causing alignment and suspension geometry problems. This can affect the ride quality, causing unresponsive acceleration and a jumpy ride. If you notice any issues with the ride quality, it could be due to a problem with the electronic throttle module, which can gunk up over time.
Diesel Particulate Filter: If you notice black fumes coming out of the exhaust, it could be due to a diesel particulate filter blockage. This part needs to be replaced every 75K miles, and if the car repeatedly stalls and idles badly, it could be the culprit. If you hear any whine coming from the front of the car while driving at low speeds with moderate acceleration, it could indicate a problem with the turbocharger.
Transmission Issues: Volvo V70 owners have reported issues with the transmission, including erratic shifting and loss of transmission operation. These problems can be expensive to fix, so it's essential to address them as soon as possible.
Power Steering: Some Volvo V70 models have been known to have power steering problems, which can make the car difficult to steer. This issue can be caused by a coolant leak during the warm-up process, which could result in an engine fire in extreme circumstances.
Fuel Gauge: Some V70 models have been known to have issues with the fuel gauge, which can show incorrect levels. This issue can be corrected with a software update, but in the meantime, it's essential to keep the fuel level above a third of a tank to avoid running out of fuel.
Air Con – Climate Control: It's essential to test the climate control and air conditioning system when buying a used Volvo V70. Some owners have reported issues with the system, which can be expensive to fix.
Engine Problems: The worst problem category for the Volvo V70 is engine problems, with the 2001 model year being the worst. The most-reported problem is total transmission failure, which can be expensive to fix.
In summary, while the Volvo V70 is a popular car, it's essential to be aware of these common problems before buying a used one. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues from becoming major problems, but it's essential to be aware of them and factor them into the cost of ownership.
Which Volvo V70 to avoid?
in general, i'd be wary of the '04 and older P2 (s60/v70/s80) cars. the '05 and up models seemed to be a little more solid, but they still have some common problems. the 5cyl engines are damn sturdy, as are the AW transmissions (i'll assume you're looking at an auto). the PCV system is a definite weak point.
What is the best year of a Volvo V70 to buy?
What is the best year of Volvo V70 to buy? We'd say that's a toss up between the 2004 and 2005 model years of the Volvo V70.
What is the life expectancy of a Volvo V70?
It can also vary depending on the make and year of your Volvo. That being said, with the proper care the average lifespan of a Volvo is typically 20 years with over 200,000 miles.
What year did the Volvo XC70 have transmission problems?
Aside from the 2012 Volvo XC70, the 2003-2008 and 2010-2012 model years could also develop transmission shifting problems.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volvo V70 years
We have researched Volvo problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volvo V70 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volvo V70 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volvo V70 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volvo V70 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volvo V70 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volvo V70 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volvo V70 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by V70 model years
A total of 42 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 V70 model years
There were a total of 27 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 V70 model years
There were a total of 42 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by V70 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1005 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volvo V70 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volvo V70 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volvo V70 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-09
- VIN: YV1BW982381
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 225/55R 95H On the highway in center lane going 70mph. Car was starting to shake and then heard loud noise coming from the back. Next thing the tire blew. Tread ripped off the bumper, side rear panel, taillight and trim under the door. We were lucky to be able to pull over to the shoulder. We had to get a flat bed tow back home. Took the tire to the Goodyear place where we had purchased the tires. There was 12000 mile on the tires. We purchased a new tire. Driving home there was the same shake. Went back to the tire place and they put the passenger rear tire on the front passenger side to see if it was truly the tire. Yes it was, so we purchased 3 new Goodyear tires, the same ones that was replaced from flat. The Goodyer guy told us to send the tire to Goodyear, because it felt it was defected. Maybe they would pay the over $5000.00 to repair our car. He told me that they have had a lot of problems with that tire. Goodyear sent a certified letter to us stating " Tire condition occured as a result of substantial impact causing overdeflection of the tire and fracture of sidewall rubber and/or fabric plies and/or liner material". They will not pay. If we had hit something substantial we would not be here today. There were not warning light or messages prior to the blowout.
Volvo V70 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-26
- VIN: YV1SZ58D721
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Volvo XC70. The contact received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V800000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available for the recall repair. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Volvo V70 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-24
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-24
- VIN: YV1SZ59H331
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I live 5 hours from the closest Volvo dealership so I called to see if they could send me the the air bag that has been recalled. The airbag is very easy to be replaced in less then 10 minutes. Because of this it is absolutely absurd for me to travel for ten hours to get something done that I can do myself in 10 minutes. They said I can buy the airbag and they could send it. But this being a recall is'nt it their responsibility to fix it in any way possible. I just feel like this is wrong that they are doing this and am addressing it in this compliant.
Volvo V70 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-08
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-28
- VIN: YV1SW592162
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The glue used by Volvo for this era of cars is known to fail causing the side mirrors to fall off. I have had to replace the both side mirrors due to this issue.
Volvo V70 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-25
- VIN: YV1SW640962
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I have been requesting the recall service of my vehicle since November 2020. I was first told by the dealership they were delayed in getting the replacement airbag but should in January. Called in January and they still didn’t have them and after asking I was put on a list and told they would contact me. I checked back in August 2021 and was told I was still on the list. I have not been contacted by the dealership since that time and my recall is still not repaired. The nearest dealership is in the next state 2.5 hours away. I just want this completed as I’ve been potentially driving a dangerous (to me) vehicle for over 2 years now.
Volvo V70 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-14
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-15
- VIN: YV1BW982X81
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Sunroof exploded while mechanic was driving the vehicle. Fortunately, sunroof visor was closed, so only minor amount of glass entered the vehicle, and no injury from the explosion or glass. There was no inspection by manufacturer or police, as not needed, also no warning lights, etc.
Volvo V70 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-16
- VIN: YV1SW59VX42
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The front passenger seat belt locks up. When pulled out it will not go back in causing the passenger not to be able to wear a seat belt. I think it might be the seat belt retractor I would like to have it fixed I believe it is a safety issue and I am looking for this to be covered for replacement and for file:///var/mobile/Library/SMS/Attachments/65/05/312F1483-F6ED-4A2B-8FEF-893294D0E482/IMG_4244.HEIC
Volvo V70 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-30
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-30
- VIN: YV1SJ527972
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2007 VOLVO V70. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG. THE CONSUMER STATED THE RECALL REPLACEMENT AIRBAG WOULD DAMAGE THE COSMETICS OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE AIRBAG DID NOT MATCH THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE.THE CONSUMER WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COSMETIC REPAIRS AS THEY ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL.
Volvo V70 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-03
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-03
- VIN: YV1BW982681
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: In mid summer of 2021, my car overheated randomly without any warning driving down the interstate. I pulled off immediately and cut the car off but, it was already done. The radiator cracked as a result of the engine overheating. I had the car towed to my mechanic and he replaced the radiator. Since then I’ve been having a lot of check engine codes. It’s now May of 2022, my car is still using and going through a lot of coolant. There are no leaks in the coolant. My mechanic recently said that the radiator fan is malfunctioning which is popping the check engine and also probably making the car overheat. I contacted Volvo dealership after seeing the recall on the radiator fan for my year make and model but, they informed me there is no recall on my car via the vin#. This week I’ve been watching not only the coolant level but also the fans…. My car has two fans on the front, one of which is not cutting on when it should be , the smaller one seems to be working fine. I think the same recall issue is also effecting my car but, Volvo is not helping me.
Volvo V70 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-14
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-20
- VIN: YV1SW592061
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Volvo V70. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V800000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Volvo V70 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-14
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-14
- VIN: YV1SJ527662
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The recall notice was issued on December 14, 2021. No area Volvo dealer has the parts to repair or replace the air bag. I have been told I am on a "waiting list" A reasonable amount of time has elapsed to repair my vehicle. Volvo Car, USA. Volvo Car, USA by email advised me to contact another local dealer in my area on March 12, 2022: "Thank you for your patience while your case was open. I apologize for any inconvenience. if your servicing dealer does not have the parts to complete the repairs for your vehicle. You have the option of making an appointment with the other dealers in your area. Our search has shown that Herzog-Meier Volvo Cars is a feasible option for you. Please find their information listed below." Herzog-Meier Volvo Cars advised me to call my own dealer, Jim Fisher Volvo since they did not have the parts to repair or replace my air bag. I contacted JIm Fisher Volvo again and they did not have the parts and I remain on their waiting list.
Volvo V70 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-05
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-12
- VIN: YV1SZ58D821
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Volvo XC70. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V800000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Volvo V70 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-14
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-07
- VIN: YV1SZ59H231
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: This is subject to a recall R10136 NHTSA Recall 21v-800 We have set appointments twice to have this done only to be told that the parts are not available and we would be contacted when they are. The local dealer is Maple Hill in Kalamazoo. I started a chat with Volvo and the suggestion was to try another dealer. If the part is not available I fail to see how that will help.
Volvo V70 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-30
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-14
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YV1SW53D012
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Volvo V70. The contact stated that while the vehicle was idling, the engine caught fire. The air bag warning light was illuminated. There was damage to the garage. There were no reported injuries. The fire department extinguished the fire and confirmed the origin of the fire was the engine. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 178,000.
Volvo V70 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-14
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-13
- VIN: YV1SW61N012
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Been trying to get the airbags serviced and replace since I received the notice from Volvo on Dec.14 2021. I have made several appointments in my area to get this matter fixed, Dealers in my area either don't have replacement in stock or don't know of the recall contract Volvo CarUSA LLC they could not help me, now I am receiving text message on dash saying SRS Airbag service Urgent. Any help would be appreciated. Sincerely [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Latest 5 recalls Volvo V70
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 61 recalls for different components of the Volvo V70.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volvo V70 2001
- Report Received Date: 2021-10-14
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Volvo Cars USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2001-2007 V70 and XC70 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 December 14, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10136.
- Model: Volvo V70 2002
- Report Received Date: 2021-10-14
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Volvo Cars USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2001-2007 V70 and XC70 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 December 14, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10136.
- Model: Volvo V70 2004
- Report Received Date: 2021-10-14
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Volvo Cars USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2001-2007 V70 and XC70 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 December 14, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10136.
- Model: Volvo V70 2006
- Report Received Date: 2021-10-14
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Volvo Cars USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2001-2007 V70 and XC70 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 December 14, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10136.
- Model: Volvo V70 2005
- Report Received Date: 2021-10-14
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Volvo Cars USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2001-2007 V70 and XC70 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 December 14, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10136.
Latest negative Volvo V70 car reviews
Latest positive Volvo V70 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2008
I've owned the car for three months now and I'm really pleased with it. I was looking for a vehicle that could tow a small pop-up camper, but wasn't as bulky as an SUV, and a station wagon was the perfect solution. The car is really comfortable too. As a previous Honda owner, I was a bit disappointed with the fuel economy, but it wasn't unexpected. I get around 22-23 mpg with city driving and just over 25 mpg on the highway, which isn't too bad all things considered. I do use high octane fuel though.
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Vehicle year: 2003
I bought the V70 after owning a 240 wagon. Although the V70 is comfortable and has great gas mileage for its size, I have been disappointed in Volvo's apparent decline in quality. Unfortunately, I have had to return to the dealer about 5 times in the first two and a half years to replace shoddy parts, including the steering wheel which just sort of crumbled and the power steering reservoir which cracked. The brakes went at 40k. As someone who has only owned Volvos in my adult life, I am sad to say that I will not be buying another. It seems that Volvo now delivers American quality with a European price tag.
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Vehicle year: 2008
You're going to love driving this car! The handling is fantastic and the braking is excellent. The interior is beautiful and incredibly comfortable. As someone who has owned 7 Volvos, I can confidently say that this one does not disappoint. The exterior styling is very classy and eye-catching. Plus, you'll be happy to know that with freeway driving, you can expect to get between 27 and 30.5 mpg.
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Vehicle year: 2002
I recently purchased a 7-seat vehicle for the school car pool, and I must say, it's been a great investment. Although my wife thinks I got it just for the nice seats, I actually bought it used with 50K miles two weeks ago. This car has amazing power, but I would advise against punching the accelerator unless you really mean it. It has every safety feature available on any new car, and the stereo is superb. I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the gas tank, as I was able to drive from Memphis to DC (around 850 miles) on less than two tanks of gas. My car has lots of thoughtful features, such as integrated second-row child boosters, a built-in second-row tray table with cup holders, a built-in cargo compartment divider, and clever rear-facing third-row seats that my kids adore. Additionally, the electronic child-proof door locks provide an extra layer of safety.
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Vehicle year: 2000
I love the car! It's amazing that I was able to snap it up from a private seller. Here are a few comments: The car has great get up and go with the turbo, the seats are cozy, the paint is great, and it's a durable car. The car growls with the reminder of
Are you having problems with your Volvo V70?
Jaron Hills 2025-04-15
Vehicle year: 2001
Just a heads up, you may need to visit the shop frequently and troubleshoot often. These cars are quite complex and have computers integrated into every component, which can sometimes malfunction.
Elwin Gleason 2025-04-14
Vehicle year: 2002
We've had this car for nearly two years and unfortunately, we wouldn't buy another. We've experienced a series of electrical problems such as bulbs constantly shorting out and headlights failing, as well as other assorted issues. We found the service to be mediocre and overpriced. Additionally, the sport tires are expensive and loud, making for a less than quiet ride. We've been loyal Volvo owners for 10 years now, but recently purchased an Acura MDX as our family car and have been much happier with its quality and performance.
Kaleigh McDermott 2025-04-14
Vehicle year: 1999
In 2003, I purchased a used vehicle with 42,000 miles for $23,000. Unfortunately, I have experienced several issues with the car, including leaking antifreeze, faulty ETS, and warning lights flashing on and off. Despite multiple visits to both the Volvo dealer and independent mechanic, the issues persisted. However, I am confident in my decision to address these problems and have taken the necessary steps to ensure the car is in top condition.
Emile Miller 2025-04-09
Vehicle year: 2007
Changing a single headlamp or rear tail lens may seem like a daunting task, but it can be done with ease. Although some features may break and be expensive to fix, the Ford vehicle still has some great features such as the Variable Valve Timing that provides fair bottom end torque. While it may not be as powerful at high speeds, it still gets the job done. As someone who has owned several Volvos in my lifetime, I have high hopes for Geeley to do even better. It's worth noting that these guys make marine engines as well as trucks. Have a great day!
Easter Koss 2025-04-01
Vehicle year: 2001
This car reminds me of the old English sports cars, which are a dream to drive when they're working. However, I've had some reliability issues with this car since day one. Additionally, I've noticed that some of the interior and exterior parts are flimsy and tend to break easily. Furthermore, the front end seems to be built too light for American roads. Unfortunately, I've also experienced poor support from the dealer. It seems like they don't know how to fix the car, and they just replace parts until the problem goes away. Overall, I would recommend being cautious when considering this car.