2003 Volvo V70xc 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 V70xc problems
The Volvo XC70 (2003) is a rugged vehicle known for its durability and off-road capabilities. However, there are some common problems that owners have reported, based on the search results provided.
- Transmission Issues: One of the most common problems with the Volvo XC70 is related to the transmission. Owners have reported hard shifts or downshift bangs, which can make quite a bit of noise and affect the overall ride quality. The recommended solution is to perform a software update, which is the easiest and cheapest option. However, if the shifting remains erratic, a more extensive repair may be necessary, which involves tearing apart the transmission and fixing it correctly.
- Lack of Transmission Fluid Check Capability: The Volvo XC70's transmission system is sealed, which means there is no dipstick for regular fluid checks. This can make it difficult for owners to perform proper maintenance, as the transmission fluid needs to be drained completely and then refilled with full synthetic fluid, which requires a lift.
- Door Lock Actuator Failure: Another common issue with the Volvo XC70 is related to the door locks. Sometimes, one or more door locks may stop working, either with the key or the button. This issue is more likely to be caused by a faulty actuator inside the latch area, which is an electronic module. If all the doors, including the tailgate, have problems, it may be due to a malfunctioning driver's door module, another computer piece that has gone bad.
- ABS and Check Engine Light Issues: Owners have reported issues with the ABS light and check engine light coming on, accompanied by a non-functioning speedometer. This problem is caused by a faulty ABS module, which requires a whole new replacement. While there are companies that rebuild these modules, replacing the entire module can be quite expensive.
- Upper Mount and Hydraulic Leaks: The Volvo XC70's upper mounts, including the motor mounts, can experience rubber rips, causing hydraulic leaks. This issue can result in a vibration while driving and a banging or vibration when shifting gears. Replacing the faulty mount can solve this problem.
- Control Arm Bushings: The control arm bushings in the Volvo XC70 can wear out, causing a knocking or squeaking sound and potential steering wheel wobble. This issue can affect the vehicle's stability and safety, especially at higher speeds.
What year did 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.
How long will a 2003 Volvo XC70 last?
So long as regular maintenance schedules are followed, a Volvo vehicle will on average last for 20 years.
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.
Is XC70 reliable?
The XC70 has been consistently excellent, with very few problems reported since its introduction in the 1999 model year. So, while none of these model years are awful vehicles, we'll help steer you away from the Volvo XC70 model years to avoid.
How long will a 2003 Volvo XC70 last?
So long as regular maintenance schedules are followed, a Volvo vehicle will on average last for 20 years.
What year did 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.
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.
Is Volvo XC70 a good used car?
These compact, midsized, and large models have high scores in CR's road tests—and they're reliable. Dealership service departments receive low ratings due to their high prices, according to CR's exclusive member survey.
2003 Volvo V70xc car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo V70xc problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Volvo V70xc vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2003 Volvo V70xc complaints
The NHTSA has received 15 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Volvo V70xc.
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
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,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,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 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.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-16
- VIN: 1FMYU93124K
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: LEAKING ANGLE GEAR ON 2003 VOLVO XC70. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-21
- VIN: YV1CZ59H931
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ANGLE GEAR REPLACEMENT ON A 2003 VOLVO XC90 AWD. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-20
- VIN: YV1CZ91H831
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1. THERE IS A WHOOPING CRANE SOUND WHEN I STEP ON THE FOOT FEED AND THEN RELEASE. THE DEALER SAID IT WAS REPAIRED AND THEN WHEN I DROVE IT HOME IT WAS STILL MAKING THE NOISE. AFTER NO RESPONSE FROM MY COMPLAINT TO THEM I STOPPED THE PAYMENT VIA AE AND HAVE STILL HEARD NOTHING. I THINK I PUT THE WRONG YEAR OF MY VEHICLE IN THE BEGINNING AND IF I TRY TO GO BACK I LOOSE EVERYTHING. IT IS A 2003 XC90 PURCHASED IN 12/02. THANK YOU FOR ANY HELP YOU CAN GIVE. IF YOU CAN'T HELP, PLEASE AT LEAST SEND ME AN EMAIL AND TELL ME SO. THANKS. 2. ANOTHER PROBLEM THAT STARTED IN JULY 2006 IS A KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. AFTER NUMEROUS TRIPS TO THE DEALER I WAS TOLD A NEW BOX FOR THAT PARTICULAR ITEM AND IT WOULD COST $2800.00 TO REPAIR. BUT THEY COULD NOT GUARANTEE THAT WOULD FIX THE PROBLEM. MY XC90 HAD A 4 YR OR 50,000 WARRANTY. THIS PROBLEM STARTED IN JULY 2006 WITH 41800 MILES. I TOOK POSSESSION OF THE CAR IN 12/02 SO MY MATH SAYS THE WARRANTY EXPIRED 12/06 AND THAT MEANS IT WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY WHEN THIS WAS FIRST NOTICED. I HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE IN AT LEAST EVERY 4 MONTHS FOR SERVICE AND EACH TIME COMPLAINED ABOUT IT. ALSO I HAD IT IN AT LEAST 5 TIMES FROM JUNE THRU JULY 2007 WITH NO SATISFACTION. NOW THEY DON'T EVEN ANSWER MY EMAILS OR RETURN MY PHONE CALLS. I HAVE CONTACTED THE CONSUMER COMPLAINT DEPARTMENT OF VOLVO AND THEY HAVE NEVER ANSWERED ME. I AM AT A LOSS AS TO WHAT TO DO. THIS CAR WAS PURCHASED AT POWER VOLVO OF CERRITOS (THEN IT WAS CALLED VOLVO OF CERRITOS) PLEASE HELP ME! *TR
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-19
- VIN: YV1SZ59H731
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN WE BROUGHT OUR 2003 VOLVO XC V70 WAGON INTO THE DEALER AT 62,000 MILES WE COMPLAINED ABOUT A LOUD WHIRRING NOISE AS WE DROVE IT. WE WERE TOLD THAT THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO REPEAT IT AND NOT TO WORRY. WHEN WE BROUGHT IT BACK AT 69,000 FOR AN OIL CHANGE WE WERE TOLD THERE WAS A LOUD WHIRRING NOISE THAT MEANT WE NEEDED A WHEEL BEARING REPLACED. SO WE MADE ANOTHER APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THAT CHANGED. TO MAKE A LONG STORY SHORT, AT THAT VISIT WE WERE TOLD TO HAVE EACH WHEEL BEARING REPLACED AND WE WERE TOLD THE ANGLE GEAR WAS STRIPPED AND ALSO NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. I HAD TO HAVE THE WHEEL BEARING REPLACED ON MY OLD MAZDA 323 WHEN IT HAD ABOUT 70,000 MILES ON IT SO I KNOW IT IS A BIG DEAL. HOW CAN IT BE THAT WE NEEDED ALL 4 WHEEL BEARINGS REPLACED AT THE SAME TIME? HOW DID THEY MISS IT AT THE EARLIER CHECKUP? WERE THE WHEEL BEARINGS THE REASON WE NEEDED THE ANGLE GEAR REPLACED AS WELL? IS THIS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THESE VOLVOS XC WAGONS? THIS WAS VERY EXPENSIVE, SHOULD WE HAVE TO PAY ALL THE COSTS?*JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-31
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE SIDE MIRRORS FAILED TO STAY IN THE POSITION THEY WERE SET IN, WHICH MADE IT DIFFICULT TO SEE WHILE DRIVING. *JB
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Volvo V70xc problems:
2003 Volvo XC70 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Top 2003 Volvo XC70 Problems · Transmission Will Not Shift Properly · ABS Control Module May Fail · Front Control Arm Bushings May Wear Out · Upper Engine Mount ...
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