Volvo Xc70 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 Xc70 model years
Common Volvo Xc70 problems
The Volvo XC70 is a luxury midsize SUV known for its safety, capability, and comfort. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the Volvo XC70:
- ABS Control Module Problems: The ABS control module is another common problem in the Volvo XC70. This issue can cause the ABS light to come on, indicating a problem with the anti-lock braking system. The ABS control module may need to be replaced to fix this issue.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical problems are also a common issue in the Volvo XC70. These problems can include issues with the battery, alternator, and other electrical components. Electrical problems can cause a variety of issues, including the car not starting or running properly.
- Engine Problems: Engine problems are another common issue in the Volvo XC70. These problems can include issues with the engine mounts, timing belt, and other engine components. Engine problems can cause a variety of issues, including the car running poorly or not starting at all.
- Suspension Problems: Suspension problems are also a common issue in the Volvo XC70. These problems can include issues with the struts, shocks, and other suspension components. Suspension problems can cause a variety of issues, including the car riding poorly or handling poorly.
- Fuel System Problems: Fuel system problems are another common issue in the Volvo XC70. These problems can include issues with the fuel pump, fuel injectors, and other fuel system components. Fuel system problems can cause a variety of issues, including the car not starting or running properly.
- Body and Paint Problems: Body and paint problems are also a common issue in the Volvo XC70. These problems can include issues with the paint, body panels, and other exterior components. Body and paint problems can cause a variety of issues, including the car looking worn or damaged.
While the Volvo XC70 is a reliable vehicle, it is important to be aware of these common problems. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues from occurring or catch them early before they become more serious. If you are considering purchasing a Volvo XC70, it is a good idea to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before making the purchase. This can help ensure that you are aware of any potential issues and can make an informed decision about whether the vehicle is right for you.
How many miles will an XC70 last?
Typically, you will find that the Volvo XC70 will survive around 100,000-200,000 miles.
Is the XC70 a good car?
Overall, the XC70 should prove to be tough, dependable and practical family transport, especially for those who don't like driving crossovers or SUVs such as Volvo's XC60 and XC90.
What year does Volvo have transmission problems?
If you own one of these models, one of the first signs of transmission problems is a hesitation and then a hard shift when your car switches gears. Some cars from this period experience problems as early as 30,000 to 50,000 miles. If you bought your Volvo between 2000 and 2016, it's worth keeping your eye on things.
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.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volvo Xc70 years
We have researched Volvo problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volvo Xc70 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volvo Xc70 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volvo Xc70 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volvo Xc70 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volvo Xc70 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volvo Xc70 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volvo Xc70 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Xc70 model years
A total of 10 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 Xc70 model years
There were a total of 8 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 Xc70 model years
There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 414 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volvo Xc70 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volvo Xc70 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volvo Xc70 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
- VIN: YV1SZ59H141
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Faulty fuel pump causing leakage
Volvo Xc70 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-23
- VIN: YV4BZ982181
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Volvo XC70. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the sunroof fractured without impact. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,400.
Volvo Xc70 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-31
- VIN: YV4952BL6E1
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Rain is coming in from the top of the windshield, making it difficult to see out of the windshield while driving.
Volvo Xc70 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-24
- VIN: YV4612NK6G1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The seatbelts on the front driver and passenger side have failed to release when trying to unbuckle. This is a hazard. If there was a moment where it's imperative to leave the car (fire, water, etc) Driver and passenger could get locked in their seatbelts without the ability to exit the vehicle. Volvo would have covered it if the factor warranty was still active. My complaint wa ignored while the vehicle was under warranty. Now that it is out of warranty I am forced to replace the failed parts out of my pocket.
Volvo Xc70 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-23
- VIN: YV4992BZ4A1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: On two P3 Volvo cars I have owned now, the front passenger and driver side seatbelt release button sometimes does not release the seatbelt, this happens almost daily and requires the button to be forcibly pressed to release, more commonly on the passenger side. Additionally, on two separate occasions, the passenger side seatbelt has slotted into the latch but was loose when tugged on, not being able to support any tension. This happened on both cars that I owned and with different passengers, where we would arrive at our destination and then they would go to press the button and the seatbelt simply disconnected. On my newer P3 car, (With the VIN here) I replaced the seatbelt catch device on the passenger side believing this was an issue with just the car, but the new replacement also had this issue. This is a serious safety issue as it prevents passengers from exiting the vehicle during an emergency and also may give a false sense of safety with the belt being latched, when really the slightest tug releases it.
Volvo Xc70 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-29
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-29
- VIN: YV1SZ59H541
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I received a recall notice for the defective driver airbag. The nearest dealership is 10 hours away. I called Customer care and they said I would be responsible to transport my Volvo to the dealership in Billings Montana. The vehicle is a 2004 Volvo with 188k miles. Expense and travel is prohibitive to me. I am on a fixed income and I would worry about making a 20hr round trip in an older car. My desire is to gift this car to my granddaughter when she gets her driver's lic. I could not forgive myself if the driver's airbag deployed and the result could be serious injury or death. I contacted the Volvo Customer Care service and they said they could transport the car one way. can you help?
Volvo Xc70 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-12
- VIN: 99999999999
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: VOLVO. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO A DEFECTIVE ENGINE.
Volvo Xc70 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-25
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-27
- VIN: YV4BZ982581
- Components: STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I have noticed water leaking into the inside of my windshield and also noticed that the front and rear carpets are damp and the car is developing a musty smell. Upon closer inspection it appears that the top of the windshield is unbonded from the frame and moves outward when pressure is applied against it. This is a serious safety concern as the windshield is a structural component of the vehicle and the integrity of the vehicle with an unbonded windshield compromises the vehicle safety. Beyond that structural concern, the inside windshield fogs us consistently causing impaired visibility while driving, especially in the rain.
Volvo Xc70 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-27
- VIN: YV440MBX2G1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: We have experienced three major defects with this vehicle. First and most concerning is the intermittent blackout of the driver's instrument panel (aka driver's information module, DIM). Second most conerning is the defect in the trailer lighting control module that leaves stop, running and signal lighting on our trailer unreliable. Both of these defects appear to be design or manufacturing defects that can be corrected by upgrading the relevent parts. The third defect is in the design of the traction control system that has no physical switch readily accessible to the driver for temporary use in emergency situations, but rather is buried in the MyCar software selection, labeled "Sport Mode." This design requres a driver to override the traction control during the entire driving session, leaving the car without traction control when it might be needed during the same inclement road conditions that would warrant momentary deactivation of the system. Ie, in icy conditions one would want traction control on most times, but not when starting on ice or mounting snow berms at driveway exits, etc.
Volvo Xc70 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-20
- VIN: YV440MBM3F1
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: My Volvo XC70 has had a sudden and significant increase in oil consumption. I believe this is due to the pistons which Volvo is now acknowledging. They refuse to issue a recall or to repair my very well maintained vehicle. Continue operation requires up to 2 quarts of oil every 500 miles! It also presents an ongoing risk of sudden engine malfunction and dangerous stoppage, I have all my records which shows my car has been maintained and the cause is faulty pistons. Volvo must be held accountable.
Volvo Xc70 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-16
- VIN: YV4960BZ4A1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The windscreen seal has failed. Water leaking into the overhead lighting fixture and main cabin. This will ruin the car, and shouldn't happen to any car. The windscreen, when properly attached to the body, contributes to the structural integrity and crashworthiness of the vehicle. If the screen is only partly bonded, any stress could detach it and the upper part of the body would suffer reduced strength integrity. I can push the windscreen out with my hand.
Volvo Xc70 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-21
- VIN: YV4940BZ0D1
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Top windshield seal leaks, causing water running down windshield, and excess condensation creating visibility issues. Known problem by Volvo USA and dealers.
Volvo Xc70 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-19
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-23
- VIN: yv4sz592071
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The driver airbag has been under recall per letter dated 12/14/21, NHTSA RECALL #21V-800 We scheduled initial repair with dealer upon receipt of notice last December, however, this has not been accomplished and as of 9/23/22 as we are continually told the part needed remains on backorder. We had contacted Volvo directly on 3/31/22 and they stated the dealer would have to order the part. The "incident" or complaint filed here is due to the inability of being able to have this recalled part replaced in over 9 months and belief that manufacturer is delaying required replacement part due to the age of the vehicle.
Volvo Xc70 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-28
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-05
- VIN: YV4SZ592X61
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Volvo XC70. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the front suspension springs fractured. The contact heard a loud clicking sound. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who confirmed the fracture of the suspension springs. The passenger’s side suspension springs were replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 95,000.
Volvo Xc70 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-29
- VIN: Yv4sz592571
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Transmission issues, shifting, stop bump. Headlight issues wiring and hid ballast. Engine Evap work done. Back drivers side seat belt locking mechanism faulty. Knocking clinging under carriage in suspension areas.
Latest 5 recalls Volvo Xc70
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 56 recalls for different components of the Volvo Xc70.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volvo Xc70 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 Xc70 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 Xc70 2007
- 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 Xc70 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 Xc70 2003
- 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 Xc70 car reviews
Latest positive Volvo Xc70 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2013
Congratulations on your purchase of a 2012 XC70 T6 with only 23,000 miles! I'm glad to hear that it has been performing well for you, especially during the snowy and icy Portland winter. It's great to know that the studded tires have made a difference and that the car has been reliable on steep inclines. The acceleration is impressive, and the comfortable seats make for a smooth ride. I understand that choosing between a used Volvo and a new Subaru can be a tough decision, but it sounds like you made the right choice. Here's to many more years of happy driving!
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Vehicle year: 2004
My wife and I recently purchased this car, so we cannot comment on its reliability just yet. However, we are pleased with our decision to buy another Volvo, as we both enjoyed our previous Volvo 740 station wagon. In comparison to some midsize cars we tested, the Volvo 740 was still more enjoyable to drive even at 18 years old. The performance of our new Volvo is more than adequate, and the seats are absolutely marvelous. After a 5-hour drive, we felt well-rested thanks to the comfortable seats. Overall, this is the most comfortable car I have ever driven.
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Vehicle year: 2004
It's been a great car for commuting, incredibly comfortable! However, we did experience an issue with the AWD power to the rear wheels. Unfortunately, there was no warning to alert the driver, and we only discovered the issue when my son observed the rear wheels not spinning on our icy driveway. To make matters worse, we discovered this issue after the warranty had expired, and the repair cost us $2600. We had to wait for over 3 weeks at the dealer for parts, and during that time, we had 3 snowstorms, which was one of the reasons we bought the AWD. Needless to say, we were not happy campers. As a long-time Volvo family (we currently have 3 V-series in our household), we are not sure if we will buy another. It's worth noting that Volvo isn't the only manufacturer with AWD problems - you can do an internet search on 'AWD problems'.
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Vehicle year: 2015
This Wagon is perfect for families with kids and pets. It's comfortable on long trips and has important safety features that my family loves. Driving this Volvo Wagon is effortless and I always look forward to any excuse for a road trip. Update: We've owned this car for 4 years now and still love it. Our sixteen year old has even chosen this car to drive over our BMW 335i. We feel that she's very safe in the Volvo and we miss driving it ourselves. If we could afford it, we would have two. In our opinion, the new models get much better gas mileage, making this the perfect vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2009
You bought this car new and it has now covered 173,000 miles. You've had no unexpected expenses, just normal repairs such as brakes, shocks (at 120,000 miles), tires and battery. You've even used it to pull a utility trailer to northern California and Montana, as well as a 17-foot boat. Despite all this, it still looks like new! It's a fantastic road car and at 184,000 miles, it's still running great with no problems other than standard maintenance.
Are you having problems with your Volvo Xc70?
Lorenz Bergnaum 2025-11-08
Vehicle year: 2004
Frequent repairs can be quite expensive, but with proper maintenance, these costs can be reduced significantly.
Francis Green 2025-10-10
Vehicle year: 2008
This car has had numerous issues, including problems with the AC, transmission, and various pieces of hardware both inside and outside the vehicle. Additionally, the BLIS system, park assist, and thermometer have all been problematic. It is clear that there are many issues that need to be addressed, which is perhaps why Ford is selling this car to the Chinese. I would not recommend this car to anyone. Despite my attempts to contact Volvo US or the dealer, I have not received a response.
Rick Halvorson 2025-09-21
Vehicle year: 2003
I am the second owner of this versatile SUV and I was lucky enough to get the dealer history before purchasing it. I have added some heavy-duty sways and end links which have really helped with the handling, as well as a cool-air intake, a chip, a 3
Jaeden Botsford 2025-09-02
Vehicle year: 2009
The 08 XC70 is a comfortable and stylish wagon with some great features such as keyless entry and go, Blind Spot Warning System, and power tailgate. Although I'm not a fan of the black plastic cladding on the sides, the interior is clean and comfortable. Unfortunately, my car had some rattles and a clunking and popping sound coming from the front end, but the service department was able to tone down most of the rattles. However, the front end issue has caused the car to be in the shop four times, including today during our first winter storm. Despite this, I'm still a big fan of the XC70 and can't wait to get back on the road. Volvo could have been more helpful with the front end issue, but overall I'm enjoying my 1900 miles with this car!
Emerson Purdy 2025-09-01
Vehicle year: 2004
I am the proud owner of two XC70 wagons. One of them is a 2004 model with an impressive 192,000 miles on the clock. Although the odometer stopped working due to an ABS module issue, the brakes and ABS system still function perfectly. Despite Charlotte Volvo quoting me $1700 for an ABS module replacement, I decided to decline the repair and have been driving the car for four years without any issues. The dealer estimated the repair cost for worn control arm bushings, spring seats, and strut bearings at $761 and $523 respectively, but I chose not to proceed with the repairs. Despite this, the car has been running smoothly without any issues. The car's engine is fantastic, the turbo works well, and the car is incredibly comfortable. However, I have had to replace light bulbs frequently, and both of my XC70s have had electrical problems. For example, the radio in my 2007 model died, and Volvo quoted me $700 for a replacement. I opted for an aftermarket radio, but two years later, I experienced electrical issues with the on-board computer and climate controls. After Volvo replaced two on-board computers, a technician informed me that the aftermarket radio was causing the computer to fail. Although all wiring was correct, the technician recommended disconnecting the aftermarket radio, as it would not work with Volvo's systems. Additionally, the catalytic converter sensor failed after three years of ownership, which is a common issue with Volvo cars. The car's dash warning lights also come on sporadically, but the dealership has confirmed that there are no mechanical issues with the car, only minor electrical problems.I strongly advise against purchasing this model car or any Volvo. As an owner of three Volvo wagons, I can confidently say that the 07 model will be my last. Despite the excellent 5 cylinder Volvo turbo engines, all three of my Volvo wagons have been plagued with electrical problems that I suspect will persist in newer models.