2003 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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Common 2003 Volvo V70 problems
The Volvo V70 2003 is a popular choice for those looking for a reliable and stylish station wagon. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to common problems and issues. Here are some of the most reported problems based on complaints from owners of this car:
- Suspension Wear: Volvo has stated that the V70 was not designed for serious off-roading due to potential problems with the suspension wearing out prematurely. This can lead to alignment and suspension geometry problems, uneven tire wear, and a less than satisfactory ride quality. It is essential to check the suspension system, especially if the vehicle has been used on rough roads.
- Electronic Throttle Module: The electronic throttle module in the Volvo V70 can gunk up over time, leading to unresponsive acceleration and a jumpy ride. If you notice any strange behavioral symptoms, it could be a sign of a problem with the electronic throttle module.
- Central Locking System: The central locking system in the Volvo V70 can malfunction, with the tailgate lock having a reputation for sticking. This can lead to an expensive re-wiring job if not addressed promptly.
- Diesel Particulate Filter: The diesel particulate filter in the Volvo V70 needs to be replaced every 75,000 miles. If the car repeatedly stalls and idles badly, it could be a sign of a blockage in the filter.
- Turbo Problems: If you hear any kind of whine coming from the front of the car while driving at low speeds with moderate acceleration, it could be a sign of a problem with the turbo. This can lead to expensive repairs if not addressed promptly.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System: The AWD system in the Volvo V70 requires regular replacements of the cam belt. If this is not completed, it can cause significant problems within the engine's running and even lead to total failure.
- Transmission Issues: Struggling to change gears can be a sign of transmission issues in the Volvo V70. It is essential to carry out a transmission fluid flush or replace the transmission system if necessary.
- Uneven Tyre Wear: Uneven tyre wear is usually the result of a misaligned steering system or a problem with suspension alignment geometry. It is essential to look for any obvious signs of damage and replace any parts as needed.
- Unusual Smell in Cabin: An odd smell inside the car, accompanied by the check engine light being illuminated and hesitation while accelerating, could be a sign of a problem with the engine. It is essential to contact Volvo to discuss what they'll do for you.
- DPF Warning Light: A DPF warning light can be a sign of a problem with the diesel particulate filter, especially if the car was built between April 2014 and December 2015. It is essential to keep the tank topped up as often as possible until you can get to the dealer.
- Loss of Power Steering: Loss of power steering can be a sign of a software issue in the Volvo V70. It is essential to address this issue promptly to avoid further harm to the car.
- Fuel Leak: A fuel leak can be a sign of a cracked fuel hose, especially if the car was built between April 2015 and March 2016. It is essential to order a new fuel hose directly from BreakerYard and install it yourself if the car is not under warranty.
- Blue Smoke from Exhaust: Blue smoke coming from the exhaust and a dramatic drop in engine power can be a sign of a severe problem with the engine. It is essential to address this issue promptly to avoid further damage to the car.
In summary, the Volvo V70 2003 is a reliable and stylish station wagon, but it is not immune to common problems and issues. It is essential to be aware of these issues and address them promptly to ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.
What is the common problem with Volvo V70?
The top engine mount is known for failing on the V70. When you are taking off, or changing gear you may hear a loud knocking noise. Another symptom of the top engine mount failing is when you open the bonnet, have someone rev the engine for you and if it shakes excessively then this is the cause.
What is the best year of Volvo V70 to buy?
Going back to the 2000-2007 era still makes sense. This V70 still looks great and can have kiddie- friendly rear seats in the boot, but mostly it's a proper load-lugger, with its posh carpeted cargo bay. Note that it got something of a revamp in 2004.
What is the life expectancy of a Volvo V70?
That being said, Volvo Cars is among the top brands when it comes to longevity. Among the factors mentioned above, regular maintenance and driving style can make a huge difference. Overall, expect to see your Volvo vehicle last for over 200,000 miles if you give it proper care each year.
Do Volvos have transmission issues?
Delayed or Rough Shifting
You might notice that your Volvo hesitates when shifting gears or shifts more forcefully than usual. This can indicate issues with the transmission's fluid pressure or internal components.
What is the common problem with Volvo V70?
The top engine mount is known for failing on the V70. When you are taking off, or changing gear you may hear a loud knocking noise. Another symptom of the top engine mount failing is when you open the bonnet, have someone rev the engine for you and if it shakes excessively then this is the cause.
What is the best year of Volvo V70 to buy?
Going back to the 2000-2007 era still makes sense. This V70 still looks great and can have kiddie- friendly rear seats in the boot, but mostly it's a proper load-lugger, with its posh carpeted cargo bay. Note that it got something of a revamp in 2004.
What is the life expectancy of a Volvo V70?
That being said, Volvo Cars is among the top brands when it comes to longevity. Among the factors mentioned above, regular maintenance and driving style can make a huge difference. Overall, expect to see your Volvo vehicle last for over 200,000 miles if you give it proper care each year.
Is Volvo V70 a safe car?
Volvo V70 safety
Other car makers have since caught up with and, in certain areas, exceeded its high standards but even so, the V70 is an impressively safe car. It's five-star performance in the Euro NCAP crash tests was achieved through scoring 88% in the adult occupant test and 71% in the safety assist category.
2003 Volvo V70 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo V70 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Volvo V70 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Volvo V70
The NHTSA has received 47 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Volvo V70. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Volvo V70 vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-14
- 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.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-14
- VIN: yv1sw61t432
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Volvo V70. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V800000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact called the local dealer who confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-25
- VIN: YV1SZ59H531
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO XC70. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL AND ACTIVATING THE PARKING BRAKES. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND PARKED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROADWAY. THE CONTACT THEN DROVE TO HIS RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT CALLED LOCAL DEALER VOLVO CARS OF BETHESDA SERVICE CENTER (5415 BUTLER RD, BETHESDA, MD 20814, (301) 750-6100) WHO HAD AN EMPLOYEE TO PICK UP THE VEHICLE TO BE SERVICED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED AND WAS RETURNED TO THE RESIDENCE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 280,582.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-02
- VIN: YV1SZ59H831
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL NOTHING HAS HAPPENED AS OF YET, BUT A WARNING LIGHT IS ON TELLING ME THERE IS SOMETHING SERIOUSLY WRONG WITH THE AIRBAGS AND NEEDS IMMEDIATE ATTENTION. BEFORE I TAKE IT IN & PAY FOR THE REPAIR I NEED TO KNOW IF THIS VEHICLE WAS PART OF THE RECALL. I COULDN'T SEE IT ONLINE BUT I AM CERTAINLY CONCERNED
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-17
- VIN: YV1SW61T432
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO V70. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS BELOW 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V483000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 134,066.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-26
- VIN: 1 SW61T8323
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE INTERIOR DOOR LATCH HAS DISCONNECTED FOUR TIMES IN THE PAST FIVE YEARS. AS A DRIVER, I AM LITERALLY STUCK IN THE CAR, AND I HAVE TO EXIT THHROUGH PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THIS REPAIR(S) DOES NOT WORK, AND THE DOOR LATCHES ARE FAULTY IN THESE CARS. AS A PERSON THAT IS DRIVING IN FLORIDA, WITH THREE KIDDOS, I CAN'T BE STUCK IN MY CAR IF FOR SOME REASON THE CAR GOES INTO THE WATER. THE SPRING IN THE HANDLE OF THE CAR DOES NOT WORK, AND THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL OF THE ASSEMBLY OF THE DOOR HANDLE. YES, THIS IS AN UNSAFE CONDITION, AS I CAN'T EXIT MY CAR, ESPECIALLY IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-22
- VIN: YV1SW58D832
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: SMELL FUEL OUTSIDE RIGHT REAR OF CAR.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-01
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE, I PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE AND SUDDENLY THE ENGINE REVS UP AND THE CAR ACCELERATES AT A HIGH RATE. LUCKILY, MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE AND I COULD STOP THE CAR. I HAD TO PRESS DOWN QUITE HARD ON THE BRAKE PEDAL. A COUPLE OF SECONDS AFTER APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE ENGINE RETURNS TO A NORMAL IDLE SPEED. THIS SUDDEN ACCELERATION HAS OCCURRED THREE TIMES OVER, APPROXIMATELY, THE LAST SIX MONTHS. THE MOST RECENT OCCURRENCE WAS TODAY, AUGUST 21, 2014. I ESTIMATED THE FIRST OCCURRENCE WAS IN FEBRUARY OF 2014. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-03
- VIN: YV1SW58D632
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN COMING TO A STOP AND THE TRANSAXLE DOWNSHIFTS FROM 3RD TO 2ND GEAR, IT WILL LURCH AND A LOUD 'CLUNK' SHAKES THE VEHICLE. THIS ALSO OCCURS WHEN ACCELERATING, SHIFTING FROM 1ST GEAR TO 2ND GEAR; THE TRANSAXLE WILL HESITATE, ENGINE WILL REV AND MAKES A LOUD 'CLUNK' THAT SHAKES THE VEHICLE WHEN THE GEAR CHANGE FINALLY OCCURS. ALSO, IF I NEED TO STEP ON THE BRAKES SUDDENLY AND THEN RE-ACCELERATE, IT REALLY MAKES A LOUD 'CLUNK' AS THE ENGINE WILL REV AND GO NOWHERE, EVENTUALLY SLAMMING ITSELF INTO 2ND GEAR AND FRIGHTENING THE OCCUPANTS OF THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE LOUD NOISES AND LURCHING. *JS
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-17
- VIN: YV1SW61T832
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE TURN SIGNAL IS SOMEHOW NOT CONNECTED PROPERLY TO THE VEHICLE. EVERY TIME THE DRIVER USES THE TURN SIGNAL, THE BRIGHTS TO THE CAR GO ON. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS AT NIGHT ESPECIALLY, AS THE DRIVER FLASHES BRIGHTS TO OTHER DRIVERS AS THE TURN SIGNAL GOES ON WITH THE BRIGHTS TO THE CAR. TRIED TO FIX THE ISSUE ONCE, AND THE SAME ISSUE HAPPENED AGAIN ABOUT TWO YEARS LATER. WILL FIX THE PART AGAIN. *TR
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-03
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: THE CAR IS SHIFTING HARD AND NOW WONT SHIFT AT ALL MECHANICS SAY IT NEEDS A NEW TRANSMISSION. SO I EMAIL VOLVO FOR HELP IN REGARDS TO THIS ISSUES WITH NO HELPING RESPONSE FROM THEM OTHER THAN SORRY HERE IS A LIST OF DEALERS NEAR YOU THAT DO SERVICE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-21
- VIN: YV1SW53D032
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY THE DASHBOARD DISPLAY COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN FOR A FEW SECONDS AND THEN FLASHED BACK ON. THIS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES. THEN THE DISPLAY INDICATED THE SEAT BELTS WEREN'T WORKING. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-13
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO V70. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, HE HEARD A KNOCKING NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION AND THEY STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT PROVIDED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 63,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-28
- VIN: YV1SZ59H731
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: DASHBOARD AND SPEEDOMETER WENT BLANK SRS WARNING LIGHT ON. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-14
- VIN: YV1SW61T632
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE DIM/DRIVER INFORMATION MANUAL/DASHBOARD DISPLAY BROKE. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE DUE TO THE LOSS OF WARNING LIGHTS AND TURN SIGNAL DISPLAYS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-02
- VIN: YV1SZ59H031
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY DRIVER INSTRUMENT MODULE BEGAN TO FAIL, ON AND OFF, NOW IT IS COMPLETELY OFF. I CALLED VOLVO BECAUSE OF THE HIGH COST OF REPAIR 1400.00, THEY OFFERED ME 200.00 VERY QUICKLY ALMOST TOO QUICK, SOUNDS TO ME AS IF THEY KNOW THIS IS A SAFETY PROBLEM AND ARE TRYING TO KEEP IT ON THE DOWN LOW. I PLAN TO MAKE ANOTHER CALL TO THEM AND REPORT THE PROBLEM TO EVERY AGENCY I CAN. I HAVE NO IDEA IF MY AIRBAGS ARE WORKING, BRAKES, COOLING SYSTEM, HOW MUCH GAS I HAVE, MILEAGE IS NOT CALCULATING PROPERLY NOTHING WORKS. *JS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-03
- VIN: YV1SZ59H031
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE VEHICLES LEFT AND RIGHT SIDE BRAKE LIGHTS DO NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. I REPLACED BOTH OF THE BULBS AND THEY STILL DO NOT WORK. THERE ARE MANY ADDITIONAL OWNERS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM ACCORDING TO VOLVO FORUMS ON THE INTERNET. *TR THE VEHICLES INFORMATION SYSTEM CONTINUALLY READS THAT THERE IS AN AIRBAG PROBLEM, EVEN THOUGH THE AIRBAGS HAVE NEVER BEEN ACTIVATED/DEPLOYED. THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND DASH LIGHTS FLASH ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-10
- VIN: YV1SZ59HX31
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: COMPUTER WHICH CONTROLS THE AIR-BAG SYSTEM HAS FAILED AND IS $1200. TO REPLACE. THE CAR IS 8 YRS. OLD AND HAS 51000 MILES ON IT. THE MECHANIC SAYS THIS IS A RECURRING PROBLEM IN THE VOLVO CARS AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN ADDRESSED BY THE FACTORY. THE CAR WILL NOT PASS THE STATE INSPECTION WITHOUT THIS REPAIR AND SO WE MUST FIX IT. *TR
SEAT BELTS,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-10
- VIN: YV1SZ59H931
- Components: SEAT BELTS,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 2 SEPARATE SEAT BELT LATCHES/CATCHES ON DIFFERENT SEATS HAVE FAILED ON MY 2003 VOLVO XC70 SINCE MARCH OF 2009. IN BOTH INSTANCES, THE PROBLEM WAS DISCOVERED AND REPAIRED UNDER NORMAL CIRCUMSTANCES. THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT OR COLLISION ASSOCIATED WITH THE FAILURES. I FIND IT VERY STRANGE THAT 2 DIFFERENT SEAT BELT CATCH ASSEMBLIES WOULD FAIL ON THE SAME CAR. I WILL BE SUBMITTING SEPARATE COMPLAINTS FOR EACH INCIDENT, AS THEY HAPPENED ON DIFFERENT DATES TO DIFFERENT PARTS. MARCH 2009 - PASSENGER REAR OUTER SEAT BELT CATCH ASSEMBLY DID NOT WORK; SEAT BELT WOULD NOT CONNECT. ON MARCH 11, 2009 DEALER DEEMED THE SEAT BELT CATCH ASSEMBLY DEFECTIVE AND REPLACED WITH A NEW PART - PART #9191997. SEAT BELT HAS BEEN WORKING FINE SINCE REPAIR. THE REPAIR WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY OR RECALL. I PAID FOR THE REPAIR OUT OF MY OWN POCKET. IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT, THE RESULTS COULD HAVE BEEN FATAL, IF THE PROPER REPAIRS WERE NOT MADE. *TR
SEAT BELTS,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-18
- VIN: YV1SZ59H931
- Components: SEAT BELTS,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 2 SEPARATE SEAT BELT LATCHES/CATCHES ON DIFFERENT SEATS HAVE FAILED ON MY 2003 VOLVO XC70 SINCE MARCH OF 2009. IN BOTH INSTANCES, THE PROBLEM WAS DISCOVERED AND REPAIRED UNDER NORMAL CIRCUMSTANCES. THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT OR COLLISION ASSOCIATED WITH THE FAILURES. I FIND IT VERY STRANGE THAT 2 DIFFERENT SEAT BELT CATCH ASSEMBLIES WOULD FAIL ON THE SAME CAR. I WILL BE SUBMITTING SEPARATE COMPLAINTS FOR EACH INCIDENT, AS THEY HAPPENED ON DIFFERENT DATES TO DIFFERENT PARTS. DECEMBER 2010 - DRIVER SEAT BELT CATCH ASSEMBLY DID NOT WORK; SEAT BELT WOULD NOT CONNECT. ON DECEMBER 22, 2010 DEALER CONFIRMED CATCH ASSEMBLY NOT OPERATING CORRECTLY AND REPLACED WITH A NEW PART - PART #9191817. SEAT BELT HAS BEEN WORKING FINE SINCE REPAIR. THE REPAIR WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY OR RECALL. I PAID FOR THE REPAIR OUT OF MY OWN POCKET. IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT, THE RESULTS COULD HAVE BEEN FATAL, IF THE PROPER REPAIRS WERE NOT MADE.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-11
- VIN: YV1SJ59HX31
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: 1. STRONG FUEL ODOR AROUND VEHICLE, ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT IN GARAGE. 2. LEAKING FUEL PUMP ON TOP OF FUEL TANK. 3. FUEL PUMP REPLACED BY VOLVO DEALER. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-03
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: NOTICED A STRONG FUEL SMELL FROM MY 2003 VOLVO V70. MY MECHANIC FOUND THE ISSUE BEING A LEAKING FUEL PUMP. VOLVO HAS ISSUED RECALL NOTICES ON 2001 TO 2002 VOLVO V70, BUT DID NOT INCLUDE 2003 MODELS. THE ISSUES APPEAR TO BE EXACTLY THE SAME EVEN THOUGH VOLVO DOES NOT RECOGNIZE THIS ISSUE WITH THE 2003 MODEL. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-01
- VIN: YV1SW61T332
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO V70 .THE LIGHTING AND THE GAUGES OF THE INSTRUMENT CONTROL PANEL HAVE FAILED. AS A CONSEQUENCE SHE CAN NOT READ ANY OF THE DISPLAY. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 92,000 . THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 91,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-15
- VIN: YV1SW58D432
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: MY 2003 VOLVO V70 WITH ~127,000 MILES STARTED LEAKING FUEL FROM THE FUEL PUMP HOUSING. THE PLASTIC HOUSING FAILED ON ITS OWN. STRONG GASOLINE FUMES ENTERED THE CAR EVEN THOUGH THE ACCESS PANEL AND SEAL WERE INTACT. THE VEHICLE WAS NEVER INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT AND NEVER HAD ANY SERVICE REPAIR WORK ON OR NEAR THE FUEL TANK. I'VE HAD SEVERAL CARS OVER THIS MILEAGE WITH NEVER A FUEL PUMP ASSEMBLY FAILURE OF ANY TYPE. THIS IS DEFINITELY A PREMATURE FAILURE THAT IS EITHER A DESIGN, QUALITY OR ASSEMBLY PROBLEM.*TR
2003 Volvo V70 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2003 Volvo V70.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH GARMIN 760 PORTABLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) UNITS BECAUSE THE BATTERIES ON THOSE UNITS MAY OVERHEAT.
- Consequence: AN OVERHEATED BATTERY COULD LEAD TO A FIRE.
- Remedy: VOLVO ADVISES OWNERS TO PLEASE STOP USING THE GARMIN PORTABLE GPS DEVICE IMMEDIATELY, AND VISIT THE GARMIN WEBSITE TO DETERMINE IF THEIR UNIT IS AFFECTED. THE UNIT'S BATTERY WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW BATTERY AND A SPACER WILL BE INSERTED ON TOP OF THE BATTERY NEXT TO THE PCB. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 18, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GARMIN AT 866-957-1981 OR VISIT GARMIN'S WEBSITE AT WWW.GARMIN.COM/NUVIBATTERYPCBRECALL.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2005 S80, MODEL YEAR 2001-2004 V70, S60, XC70 AND MODEL YEAR 2003-2005 XC90 VEHICLES SOLD IN OR REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF ALABAMA, ARIZONA, ARKANSAS, CALIFORNIA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, HAWAII, KENTUCKY, LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI, NEVADA, NEW MEXICO, NORTH CAROLINA, OKLAHOMA, SOUTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, UTAH, VIRGINIA AND THE U.S. TERRITORIES. WHEN EXPOSED TO CERTAIN ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS (HOT CLIMATE AND TEMPERATURE CYCLING) OVER TIME AND IN COMBINATION WITH VARYING FUEL QUALITY, THE FUEL PUMP CAN DEVELOP CRACKS IN THE FUEL PUMP FLANGE.
- Consequence: IF THE CONDITION OCCURS VEHICLE OWNERS MAY NOTICE FUEL SMELL AND/OR FUEL LEAK WHICH, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL PUMP INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE, AND IF NECESSARY REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP WITH A PART OF A MODIFIED DESIGN. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR LOCATED ON THE LEFT END OF THE FUEL RAIL MAY, AT TIMES, TRANSMIT INCORRECT SIGNAL REGARDING THE FUEL PRESSURE TO THE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE. IF THE SIGNAL IS OUTSIDE OF THE PRE-PROGRAMMED ALLOWABLE LIMITS, A DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE MAY BE SET AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WILL COME ON. THE SOLDERED JOINTS ON THE CIRCUIT BOARD OF THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR MAY CRACK DUE TO TEMPERATURE CHANGES AND EXCESSIVE VIBRATIONS.
- Consequence: MISFIRE MAY OCCUR DURING DRIVING THAT, IN TURN, WILL REDUCE THE ENGINE TORQUE AND IN THE WORST CASE SCENARIO, THE ENGINE MAY STALL WITHOUT WARNING. IN CERTAIN TRAFFIC SITUATIONS THIS COULD CAUSE AN UNSAFE SITUATION AND POSSIBLY A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 29, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER CARS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THE SECOND ISOFIX GUIDE WAS NOT INSTALLED IN THESE VEHICLES AND, IN CERTAIN CASES, THE OWNER'S MANUAL ISOFIX INFORMATION IS INCORRECT.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL RECEIVE A LETTER/PACKAGE CONSISTING OF THE SECOND ISOFIX GUIDE WITH INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS, AND IN CERTAIN CASES, THE CORRECTED OWNER'S MANUAL MAY BE PROVIDED. IF THE OWNER WANTS TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLE TO A VOLVO DEALER FOR INSTALLATION OF THE GUIDE, IT WILL BE PERFORMED AT NO CHARGE TO THE OWNER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 19, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
Negative 2003 Volvo V70 car reviews
Positive 2003 Volvo V70 car reviews
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Outstanding overall quality. Only required one minor warranty service in the first 18 months. Surprising fuel economy for a full-sized vehicle. Neat interior features for hauling dogs, camping gear, etc. The integrated roof rack makes it easy to customize to carry toys. Highly recommended!
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Excellent value! It looks great and drives like a dream. With an average of 22mpg around town, it's both efficient and powerful. The seats are hands down the most comfortable I have ever owned, making long drives a breeze. The high-pressure turbo will definitely throw you back in your seat! Plus, it comfortably holds the whole family (and even the dog) while keeping everyone safe.
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This is a fantastic vehicle! Although there are one or two minor quality issues, it's hard to beat the 30 mpg and luxurious features. The car handles really well, and the leather heated seats are amazing. Plus, there's plenty of space for hauling things around. Overall, it's a very slick and stylish ride.
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We are glad to hear that you are enjoying your 2003 V70 overall. The car handles very well, looks great, gets good gas mileage, and has ample storage space. We are sorry to hear about the cold-start problem you experienced, which left you stranded once. It is ironic for a Swedish car to have this issue. However, we are pleased to hear that Volvo was able to identify the problem as a faulty engine control module after a few repair attempts. Since then, you have had no complaints and would consider buying another. Thank you for sharing your experience with us.
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I've got 239,000 miles on my little jewel and I plan on driving it until the end of my days!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Volvo V70 problems:
Top 5 Problems Volvo V70 XC Wagon 2001-2007 2nd Generation ...
Jul 18, 2022 ... ... Volvo V70, which you can find in model years 2001 through 2007. In this video, Sue points out the most common problems that have been ...
2003 V70 T5 2.3 Reliability Concerns : r/Volvo
May 28, 2021 ... 2003 was the first "good" year of that generation. Still, there are issues. The suspension is the weakest point. The suspensions wears out ...
2003 Volvo V70 Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Volvo V70? Our list of 10 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Volvo V70.
2001 V70 T5 Reliability vs. 2001-2003 V70s | SwedeSpeed - Volvo ...
Nov 30, 2006 ... Not as reliable overall, but the same principles (maintenance) apply. SAAB turbochargers are pretty reliable. Yannis.
2004 Volvo V70 2.5T - Any major quality/reliability issues? - Volvo ...
Dec 10, 2013 ... Periodic problems on this vehicle are the failure of the Engine Intake Valves, Leak Detection Pump, Radiator and Crankcase Ventilation Hose ...
Other years of Volvo V70
Are you having problems with your 2003 Volvo V70?
Camryn Jast 2024-11-26
I have owned this car for approximately 8 months and unfortunately, it has been in the shop six times. Despite several attempts to fix the squeaking front end, it has not been resolved. Additionally, there have been issues with the power lock motor, power window motor, and power steering pump. As a previous owner of Japanese cars, this experience has been disappointing. However, I am confident that I will make a more informed decision next time and choose a Honda.
Zack Stamm 2024-10-28
The Volvo V70 2.4 T in black is a great car that is much easier to drive than a truck and also easier to park. It's a very spacious car that is perfect for transporting people and things. I've driven it for about 1,000k and if it proves to be reliable, I'll be very happy with my decision to purchase a Volvo. Overall, it's a great car that is definitely better than a truck!