2008 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 2008 Volvo V70 problems
The 2008 Volvo V70 has been reported to have various problems, with electrical and engine issues being the most common.
Electrical problems are the most frequently reported issues, with six NHTSA complaints. These problems can range from the car not starting, electrical system malfunctions, and the engine stalling while driving. Some owners have reported that their cars would not start due to a dead battery, even after the battery was replaced. Other issues include the car's electrical system malfunctioning, causing the car to stall while driving. These electrical issues can be challenging to diagnose and repair, requiring specialized knowledge and equipment.
Engine problems are the second most common issue, with four NHTSA complaints. These problems can include the engine stalling, hesitation, and rough idling. Some owners have reported that their engines would stall while driving, causing a safety hazard. Other issues include the engine hesitating or rough idling, which can be caused by various factors, including faulty fuel injectors, ignition coils, or spark plugs. These engine problems can be expensive to repair and may require extensive disassembly of the engine to diagnose and fix.
Miscellaneous problems are also reported, with one NHTSA complaint. These issues can include problems with the car's interior, exterior, or suspension. Some owners have reported that their cars' interior components, such as the dashboard, would break or malfunction. Other issues include problems with the car's suspension, causing a rough ride or poor handling. These miscellaneous problems can be challenging to diagnose and repair, requiring specialized knowledge and equipment.
Light problems are also reported, with one NHTSA complaint. These issues can include problems with the car's headlights, taillights, or brake lights. Some owners have reported that their car's headlights would flicker or dim while driving, causing a safety hazard. Other issues include problems with the car's taillights or brake lights, which can be caused by various factors, including faulty bulbs or wiring. These light problems can be relatively easy to diagnose and repair, requiring simple replacement of the faulty components.
In summary, the 2008 Volvo V70 has been reported to have various problems, with electrical and engine issues being the most common. These problems can be challenging to diagnose and repair, requiring specialized knowledge and equipment. If you are considering purchasing a 2008 Volvo V70, it is essential to be aware of these issues and to have a qualified mechanic inspect the car before purchasing.
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.
How many miles will a Volvo V70 last?
200,000 miles
As long as the vehicle has received proper maintenance on a routine schedule, you can expect your Volvo V70 to last well over 200,000 miles.
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 2008 Volvo XC70?
Overall, expect to see your Volvo vehicle last for over 200,000 miles if you give it proper care each year.
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.
How many miles will a Volvo V70 last?
200,000 miles
As long as the vehicle has received proper maintenance on a routine schedule, you can expect your Volvo V70 to last well over 200,000 miles.
What is the life expectancy of a 2008 Volvo xc70?
Overall, expect to see your Volvo vehicle last for over 200,000 miles if you give it proper care each year.
2008 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Tires problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Volvo V70 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2008 Volvo V70 complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Volvo V70.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-20
- 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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-14
- 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YV1BW982881
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TODAY I RECEIVED A WARNING MESSAGE THAT MY LOW BEAM WAS OUT. I STOPPED IN THE AUTO PARTS STORE AND BOUGHT THE PASSENGER SIDE LOW BEAM REPLACEMENT BULB. WHEN I WENT TO DISASSEMBLE IT I NOTICED THAT THE WIRING HARNESS WAS BURNT. I'M GOING TO REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESS BUT THIS IS VERY CONCERNING. IT'S NOT OLD AND JUST CORRODED IT IS ACTUALLY BURNT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-28
- VIN: YV1BW982X81
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MIRRORS PASSENGER MIRROR FELL FROM THE MOUNT ON SEPT 2015 DRIVER MIRROR FELL FROM THE MOUNT MARCH 2019 BOTH INCIDENTS WERE WHILE DRIVING 2 LANE ROADS. FLAT AND SMOOTH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-25
- VIN: YV1BW982X81
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MIRROR ON PASSENGER SIDE FELL OFF MOUNT SEPT 2015 DRIVING 45 MPH ON 2 LANE ROAD
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-09
- VIN: YZ4BZ982681
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE WARNING FOR ENGINE OVERHEATING COMES ON AND ADVISES TO STOP SAFELY.VOLVO DEALER STATES IT IS THE FAN CONTROL MODULE THAT IS AT FAULT AND I BELIEVE THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS PARTICULAR ISSUE WITH SOME 2008-2009 V70 MODELS.THE VOLVO DEALER STATES THAT MY VIN IS EXEMPT FROM RECALL BUT CLEARLY IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE WHICH COULD LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT. I WAS DRIVING IN THE CITY AND THE A/C WAS NOT FULLY FUNCTIONAL WINDOWS FOG UP AND THE ERROR MESSAGE DISPLAYS WITHOUT ANY PREDICTABILITY. THIS COULD HAVE HAPPENED WHILE TRAVELLING ON THE HIGHWAY LEADING TO MORE SERIOUS CONSEQUENCE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-01
- VIN: YV1BW982681
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL: A RECALL FAILURE OCCURRED MAY 1, 2017 ON A FAN CONTROL MODULE THAT WAS INSTALLED ON 7/22/2009-RCALL NUMBER 214. . THE RECALL WAS DONE BUT NOW THE RECALL PART HAS FAILED AGAIN. DEALERSHIP IS NOT WILLING TO PAY FOR IT AGAIN..
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-27
- VIN: YV1BW982881
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLVO V70. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START INTERMITTENTLY. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION KEY REMAINED STUCK IN THE IGNITION SWITCH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 109,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-13
- VIN: YV1BW982281
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLVO V70. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE ENGINE OVERHEATING WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT HAD TO SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF AND WAIT BEFORE THE VEHICLE WOULD RESUME NORMAL FUNCTION. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE COOLING FAN CONTROL AND MODULE HAD FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER AN UNKNOWN MANUFACTURER RECALL FOR THE SAME FAILURE. HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,000. THE CONSUMER STATED THE RECALL REPAIR THAT WAS PERFORMED IN JULY 2009, FAILED. ON OCTOBER 16, 2014, THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THE ENGINE WAS OVERHEATING, DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE ENGINE FAN CONTROL MODULE AND COOLING FAN. SHE ALSO EXPERIENCED REDUCED AIR CONDITIONING PERFORMANCE AND AIR CONDITION FAILURE DURING SLOW TRAFFIC. THE DEALER STATED IT WAS COST $1200. UPDATED 12/02/14 *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-17
- VIN: YV1BW982X81
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLVO V70. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THE CONTACT ALSO SMELLED SULFUR FUMES. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THE BATTERY WAS CORRODED. THE NEGATIVE CABLE OF THE BATTERY WAS SO CORRODED THAT IT WAS BARE AND TOUCHING METAL IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUSING A SHORT AND THE BATTERY TO OVERHEAT AND IT ALMOST CAME CLOSE TO COMBUSTING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION AND THEY STATED THAT BOTH THE BATTERY AND THE BATTERY CABLES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 72,000.
2008 Volvo V70 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2008 Volvo V70.
- 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: 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: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
- Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING 17,614 MY 2008-2009 S80, V70, AND XC70 VEHICLES. THE ENGINE COOLING FAN MAY STOP WORKING DUE TO A SOFTWARE PROGRAMMING ERROR IN THE FAN CONTROL MODULE (FCM). DEPENDING ON DRIVING CONDITIONS, THE CUSTOMER MAY EXPERIENCE REDUCED AIR CONDITIONING PERFORMANCE, AND/OR RAPID INCREASE IN ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE.
- Consequence: THIS SITUATION MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF COOLING SYSTEM FUNCTION AND ENGINE FAILURE. THE DRIVER MAY NOT HAVE SUFFICIENT TIME TO REACT TO THE WARNING LIGHT(S) OR THE TEXT MESSAGE IN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FAN CONTROL MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO CUSTOMER CARE CENTER AT 1-800-458-1552.
- Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH REAR INTEGRATED BOOSTER SEATS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE LABELING REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 213, "CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEMS." LABELS ON THE AFFECTED VEHICLES ARE MISSING WARNING INFORMATION INDICATING THAT 'DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY CAN OCCUR' IF THE MANUFACTURER'S INSTRUCTIONS ARE NOT FOLLOWED WHEN USING CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEMS.
- Consequence: THIS STANDARD SPECIFIES REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEMS USED IN MOTOR VEHICLES AND AIRCRAFT FOR THE PURPOSE OF REDUCING THE NUMBER OF CHILDREN KILLED OR INJURED IN MOTOR VEHICLE CRASHES AND IN AIRCRAFT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW LABEL WITH THE CORRECT WARNING INFORMATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 20, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.
Negative 2008 Volvo V70 car reviews
Positive 2008 Volvo V70 car reviews
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Hi there! I've only had my car for a month, so it's hard to say how reliable it is just yet. However, I did a lot of research on safety before purchasing it and I feel really good about my decision. The V70 is a great car for transporting my golden retriever and passengers, especially those in the back seat. It feels really solid on the road, almost like an SUV, but without the poor gas mileage and top heaviness. I'm really happy with my purchase and I hope to enjoy it for many years to come!
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This is not your average station wagon. While it may not handle like a sports sedan, it still gets the job done. You'll definitely appreciate the comfort and convenience that the V70 provides. Although I haven't seen proof yet, I hope that it's a safe option too.
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This car is exactly what you would expect from Volvo. It has understated performance and a well-designed body that handles beautifully. As someone who has owned two Volvo wagons, including the previous 240 model, I can say that I absolutely love the wagon for its comfortable ride and SUV-like hauling capabilities. I am also very pleased with its fuel economy, as I commute 70 miles round trip daily on interstates and average an impressive 26 mpg.
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This car may not be the most exciting, but it is definitely comfortable, quiet, and practical. It's a great choice for families who need a spacious vehicle for their kids and gear, but don't want a minivan or SUV. The interior is beautifully designed and assembled, with every detail carefully considered for maximum comfort and convenience. The materials used are of high quality, making it a great investment. While the base price is 32K, most models come with a lot of options, which can increase the MSRP significantly. However, I was able to purchase a leftover 2008 model at a discount of over 25%. I've only had the car for two weeks, so I can't speak to its reliability just yet.
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I recently picked up my car in Gothenburg, Sweden and drove 1800 miles through Europe. I found it to be very easy to handle, with a beautiful interior and typical great seats. The dash, switches, gauges, etc. were all well laid out. I think the evolutionary update to the design of my S60 is fantastic. If you're considering the European delivery program, I highly recommend it. Even with the current value of the US dollar vs the Euro and SEK, it's well worth it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Volvo V70 problems:
2008 Volvo V70 3.2 long term experience | SwedeSpeed - Volvo ...
Jan 6, 2022 ... Changing the fluid solved the problem. I did a double drain and fill (using Ford Motorcraft Premium fluid) at about 140,000 miles because the 2- ...
2008 Volvo V70 Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
Problem with your 2008 Volvo V70? Our list of 10 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2008 Volvo V70.
Common Issues | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance Forum
May 6, 2021 ... I'm currently looking at perhaps purchasing a 2008 XC70. It has 133k miles (214k kilometers). It has a good service history.
Been thinking about getting a 2008-2010 V70. I want a flexible ...
Aug 16, 2023 ... I've been doing a good amount of research and I quite like the looks of the v70 and volvo is also known for it's reliability. I'm a 1st year ...
2008 V70 Electrical problems | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance ...
Nov 23, 2019 ... I've been driving my 08' V70 for past 2 years with no issues (got it @160k miles and now at 176k). The internal temperature sensor (the one in ...
Other years of Volvo V70
Are you having problems with your 2008 Volvo V70?
Jayce Swaniawski 2024-01-02
While the car has been reliable and comfortable to ride, it has become quite expensive to maintain as it has aged.