2011 Volvo Xc70 problems

volvo logo

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.

2011 Volvo Xc70

Social links

Common 2011 Volvo Xc70 problems

The Volvo XC70 2011 is a five-passenger wagon available in 3.2 FWD and T6 AWD trim levels. While the car is generally reliable, there are some common problems that owners have reported, which are worth considering before purchasing a used XC70.

One of the most common problems with the Volvo XC70 is related to the transmission shifting. Some drivers have reported issues with rear-wheel drive failure, which started occurring at an average mileage of 108,000 miles. This problem has been reported in both the 2001 and 2003 model years, indicating that it is a recurring issue among second-generation XC70s. The recommended solution is to rebuild the entire transmission rather than replacing the entire system under warranty to avoid a repeat.

Another common problem with the Volvo XC70 is related to the ABS control module. This issue has been reported in the 2003 model year, and it can cause the ABS system to malfunction, which can be dangerous. The recommended solution is to replace the ABS control module to resolve this issue.

The 2013 Volvo XC70 has also been reported to have problems with the front control arm bushings. This issue can cause knocking or squeaking sounds and can lead to problems with wheel alignment. The recommended solution is to replace the worn bushings to resolve this issue.

The 2012 Volvo XC70 has also been reported to have problems with transmission shifting. Some drivers have reported cases where the transmission took too long to shift between gears, shifted or downshifted harder than normal, or stopped working altogether. The recommended solution is to diagnose and repair the underlying issue to resolve this problem.

In addition to these specific issues, some owners have reported problems with the engine and electrical systems in the Volvo XC70

. These issues can include problems with the electronic throttle module, gas distribution clutches, and cylinder head. It is essential to have these issues diagnosed and repaired promptly to avoid further damage to the vehicle.

Overall, the Volvo XC70 is a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it can have issues. It is essential to have any potential problems diagnosed and repaired promptly to ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.

2011 Volvo Xc70 engine

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 many miles can a Volvo XC70 last?

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 XC70 a good car?

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.

What year did Volvo stop making XC70?

April 2016

The V70 and XC70 was discontinued in April 2016 and succeeded by the V90 and V90 Cross Country.

What are problems with Volvo XC70?

Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

Is Volvo XC70 a good car?

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 many miles can a Volvo XC70 last?

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.

When did Volvo stop making XC70?

April 2016

The V70 and XC70 was discontinued in April 2016 and succeeded by the V90 and V90 Cross Country.

2011 Volvo Xc70 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volvo Xc70 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Structure problems
  • Visibility/wiper problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Seat belts problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Volvo Xc70 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2011 Volvo Xc70 complaints

The NHTSA has received 15 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Volvo Xc70.

2022-05-05

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-07-17
  • VIN: YV4902BZ0B1
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The steering would randomly lock (or at least become very stiff). This occurred when the vehicle was warm and seemed to be mostly low speed sharper turns. Turning the wheel in the opposite direction freed it up. I replaced the steering rack to solve the problem.
2022-02-14

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-02-10
  • VIN: YV4902BZ8B1
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: Front Passenger side door is opening while driving. Has happened numerous times in the last couple weeks
2022-02-10

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-02-08
  • VIN: YV4940BL4B1
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: The windshield seal has failed causing rain water and melting snow and ice to come in the car and flow down the windshield and impair vision through the windshield. This has become a safety concern when driving in snow and rain. The water dripping down on the controls is also a safety concern and distraction while driving.
2022-01-06

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-12-26
  • VIN: YV4902BZ9B1
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Windshield sealant is deteriorating and glass is no longer fully attached to frame. Water is coming directly in from openings along driver's side roof and pooling under pedals.
2021-11-02

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-10-28
  • VIN: Yv4940bz3b1
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: It started raining and then it started leaking into my car through my windshield because my windshield started become unsealed and unattached from the rest of my car. When I went to find out about this issue and how to get it fixed I was told by three different mechanics and auto shop workers and windshield glass professionals That they find this very common involve others and I feel that if it’s that big of a problem volvo should take responsibility for it. I didn’t have the money to replace my windshield but it was either that or let water leak into my car and grow mold or cause even bigger electrical issues.
2019-12-06

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-12-04
  • VIN: YV4952BL1B1
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: WINDSHIELD LEAKING. WATER ON CAR FLOOR. CAR WAS PARKED. WINDSHIELD LOOSE AT TOP. CAR WAS STATIONARY.
2019-04-05

SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-04
  • Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: THIS CAR HAS ONLY 54K MILES! AND IS DRIVEN BY A SENIOR CITIZEN LADY, BOUGHT NEW, NO CRASHES ETC. 1. ABS AND DTSC WARNING APPEARS ON DASH. CAR TRAVELING ABOUT 25 MPH AND STOPS IN MIDDLE OF INTERSECTION, ENGINE STILL RUNNING, WILL NOT MOVE DESPITE FLOORING ACCELERATOR. IT'S AS THOUGHT THE ABS HAS APPLIED THE BRAKES AND WONT LET THE CAR MOVE. TAP BRAKES, MOVE SHIFT TO MANUAL MODE AFTER NOT MOVING FOR ABOUT 30 SECONDS CAR FREES UP AND DRIVES NORMALLY BUT ABS/DTSC LIGHTS STILL ON. WENT STRAIGHT TO DEALER, WHICH WAS NEARBY. DEALER SAYS REAR ABS SENSOR IS BAD WILL ORDER PART. 2. ALSO INFORMS ME THAT THE FRONT COIL SPRING HAS BROKEN???. WHAT? IT'S 54K MILES!... IT HASN'T HIT ANYTHING AND SHE HAS NEVER DRIVEN FASTER THAN 65 MPH.
2019-04-05

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-12-15
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: WIFE WAS RIDING IN PASSENGER SEAT. WE HAD TAKEN HER CAR AND I WAS DRIVING. SUDDENLY THE SHOULDER HARNESS GOT TIGHT, SHE TRIED TO ROLL IT BACK TO RELEASE IT AS IS NORMAL BUT, IT STUCK HALFWAY OUT, TOO SHORT TO USE AND CANNOT BE EXTENDED. DEALER SAID IT WAS A BAD SEAT BELT RE TRACTOR. PRICE TO FIX $700. THIS IS THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT SEAT BELT ON A 54K MILE CAR. IT RARELY GETS USED AS WIFE IS USUALLY THE DRIVER AN SOLE OCCUPANT. THAT BELT PROBABLY HASN'T BEEN USED 500 TIMES. CAR WAS BOUGHT NEW, NO CRASHES, WELL MAINTAINED. THIS SHOULD NEVER FAIL, LET ALONE WITH HARDLY ANY USE. AT THE TIME OF HAPPENING I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 65 MPH ON THE FREEWAY. . WE WERE ON AN HOUR'S DRIVE, RETURNING FROM RELATIVES HOUSE.
2018-12-04

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-11-26
  • VIN: YV4940BZ7B1
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: "TAKATA RECALL" AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFTS ARE JERKY. I TOOK INTO VOLVO SERVICE WHITE PLAINS NY. THEY FOUND ERROR CODE TCM-P074468 AND RESET. THEY TOLD ME IF PROBLEM PERSISTS I WOULD NEED A NEW TRANSMISSION. MY VEHICLE IS IN GREAT CONDITION AND WELL MAINTAINED WITH 104063 MILES. THE PROBLEM STILL PERSISTS. I THEN DID FURTHER RESEARCH AND FOUND THAT MY VECHICLE WAS RECALLED FOR THAT SAME PROBLEM AND ERROR MESSAGE. BUT MY VIN # WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. VOLVO IS NOT ACKNOWLEGING RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS PROBLEM. I'VE ENCLOSED MY VEHICLE SERVICE INVOICE WHICH SHOWS THE CODE AND THE RECALL LETTER FROM VOLVO SHOWING THE SAME CODE. PLEASE ADVISE, THANK YOU.
2018-01-12

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-12-13
  • VIN: YV4902BZ3B1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: I RECENTLY TOOK MY CAR IN FOR SERVICE, 119,600 MILES, AND NOTED I WAS HAVING A PROBLEM WITH THE DRIVERS SEAT BELT LATCH NOT ALWAYS RELEASING PROPERLY. THE DEALER CONTACTED VOLVO ABOUT IT AND WAS TOLD THEY DO NOT ACCEPT ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE DEFECTIVE SEAT BELT LATCH.
2017-09-23

POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-09-22
  • VIN: YV4952BZ4B1
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: THE CAR MAKES A LOUD ROARING SOUND AT ABOUT 45-50 MPH AND THE DEALERSHIP SAYS "PROBABLY THE TIRES" BUT DOING SOME RESEARCH THERE SEEMS TO BE A LOT OF PEOPLE WITH SIMILAR PROBLEMS AND ADD TO THIS IT RANDOMLY DOWNSHIFTS WHILE BRAKING (OR MAYBE IT IS THE BRAKES) WHEN COMING TO A STOP WHICH WOULD CAUSE THE CAR TO LOSE CONTROL ON A SNOW/ICE/SLIPPERY SITUATION, THIS HAPPENS AT A SLOWER SPEED AND ONLY WHEN SLOWING DOWN AT ABOUT 10-15 MPH. I AM NOT SURE WHAT IS CAUSING THIS AND THERE ARE MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS OUT ON THE INTERNET AND NO REAL SOLUTIONS.
2016-06-14

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-06-14
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: WENT TO THE LOCAL SERVICE STATION ABOUT A LOW TIRE PRESSURE WARNING. THE MECHANIC NOTED THAT CONTINENTAL AND MICHELIN TIRES HAVE HAD AN ISSUE OF TIRE ROT. THE AIR COMES RIGHT THROUGH THE SIDE WALL OF THE TIRES. HE RECOMMENDED NEW TIRES TO FIX THE PROBLEM. HE ALSO RECOMMENDED AND AMERICAN MANUFACTURED IN THE USA.
2011-11-18

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-11-08
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: YV4952BZ4B1
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: ON NOVEMBER 8, 2011, MS. JANICE CERVELLI SUSTAINED MINOR PERSONAL INJURIES AND SEVERE DAMAGE TO HER VEHICLE AS THE RESULT OF AN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION. THE INCIDENT OCCURRED IMMEDIATELY AFTER MS. CERVELLI ACCIDENTLY BACKED INTO A UTILITY POLE IN THE PARKING AREA OF A PROFESSIONAL OFFICE PLAZA LOCATED AT 620 NORTH COUNTRY CLUB IN TUCSON, ARIZONA. IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE LOW SPEED IMPACT WITH THE UTILITY POLE, MS. CERVELLI PUT THE VEHICLE IN DRIVE, AT WHICH TIME THE VEHICLE QUICKLY ACCELERATED, AND SURGED FORWARD DESPITE THE FACT THAT MS. CERVELLI WAS PRESSING ON THE BRAKE PEDAL WITH ALL HER STRENGTH. MS. CERVELLI REPORTS THAT SHE COULD FEEL THE BRAKE PEDAL SURGING UNDER HER FOOT WHILE THE ENGINE RPMS CONTINUED TO RISE. THE VEHICLE JUMPED THE PARKING BARRIER, CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL AND RELATED SUSPENSION. THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE FORWARD TO IMPACT THE PROFESSIONAL OFFICE BUILDING, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE LEFT FRONT QUARTER AND LEFT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.
2011-08-26

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-08-10
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: BACK DOOR LATCH IS DEFECTIVE. *TT
2011-08-26

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-08-10
  • VIN: YV4902BZ3B1
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: BACK DOOR LATCH IS DEFECTIVE *TT

2011 Volvo Xc70 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2011 Volvo Xc70.

2020-06-30
  • 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.
2010-11-17
  • Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011, S80, S60, XC70 AND XC60 VEHICLES. THE SOFTWARE CALIBRATION FOR THE FUEL CUT-OFF FUNCTIONALITY IN THE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM) IS TOO SENSITIVE.
  • Consequence: SUDDEN ENGINE STALL COULD OCCUR INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL UPDATE THE ECM AND TCM WITH NEW SOFTWARE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 10, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552 OR AT [email protected].
2010-10-13
  • Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
  • Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010-2011 S80, XC70, MODEL YEAR 2011 XC60 AND MODEL YEAR 2010 V70 VEHICLES. THERE MAY BE AN INTERMITTENT FAULT IN THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG CLOCKSPRING WIRING CONNECTOR FOR THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
  • Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE DRIVER'S FRONTAL AIRBAG MAY NOT DEPLOY AS INTENDED OR AT ALL, AND THEREFORE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY PROTECT THE DRIVER, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURIES.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A METAL SHIM IN THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG CLOCKSPRING WIRING CONNECTOR. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 20, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552.

Negative 2011 Volvo Xc70 car reviews

  1. Hipolito Corkery 2024-10-28

    I have owned several Volvo cars in the past, but unfortunately, this one has been the worst with the most problems. Recently, the battery needed to be replaced at just under 50,000 miles. Currently, the car is at the dealer because it died in a parking lot and the AC and lights would not turn off. Additionally, I kept receiving all types of weird messages on the car. I called the dealer and they said they were not sure what was wrong and it may be the battery. If so, it means it only lasted 30,000 miles. I had to have the car towed and when I left the dealer, they could not tell me when it would be looked at. The lights were still on and the key was stuck in the car. I would bet money that if I drove past there today, the key would still be stuck and the lights, if any life left in the car, would still be on.

  2. Emerson Greenholt 2024-08-01

    I have been following Edmunds for many years and have read numerous reviews. I have also owned several higher-end cars. I would love to have the opportunity to speak with the CEO of Volvo and share my thoughts on the recent changes. While the seating is great, I have noticed some issues with the new 6-cylinder engine, which sounds quite loud at cruising speed and resembles a vacuum cleaner. Additionally, the transmission tends to jump when the car is at idle. I have had to make several trips to the dealer for software upgrades, and on one occasion, the Volvo technician experienced the same issue with the car jumping forward without applying the gas. In comparison, my wife's 2008 Volvo with a 5-cylinder engine is much quieter. Furthermore, the gas mileage is disappointing, averaging only 21 mpg on the highway. Overall, this is not the Volvo that I remember from the past.

  3. Schuyler Hammes 2024-06-12

    I recently purchased my second Volvo, with a BMW, Yukon, and Jaguar in between. While my wife has had three Volvos and is happy with them, I have had some issues with my XC70. Specifically, the transmission makes a slight jolt forward at low speeds when coming off a stop, even without pressing the gas pedal. Despite several attempts by the dealer to fix it through software updates and other means, the issue persists. I am wondering if the all-wheel drive is the cause of this problem. Has anyone else experienced this issue? I have been told that there are no tech bulletins on this problem.

  4. Trey McLaughlin 2024-06-02

    The Volvo XC70 wagon I purchased new with AWD has only 54K miles. While maintenance costs are a little pricey, it is expected to maintain any car. However, I have experienced some unexpected issues with this car that should not have happened in a vehicle that is treated with care. Despite being driven gently by a senior lady, the RAD sensor failed twice in the first 34K miles, and the passenger seatbelt retractor failed at 53K miles, which is seldom used. The engine vacuum pump was also leaking, and the ABS/DTSC light came on, causing the brakes to stop the car dead in the middle of an intersection. While checking out the light, the mechanic found that the front rear spring was broken. These are things that should last the life of a car. I have owned cars for over 55 years and have never had to replace a coil spring or a seat belt retractor. The windshield also started to leak at 50K miles, which is not acceptable. I believe that these issues are safety-related and should not have happened. I have never had these kinds of problems with cars that I have owned for over 230K miles. Update 10/8/20: The dealer suggested replacing the air cleaner and spark plugs, which I found online for a much lower price.The headlights failed within a week of each other due to the Volvo daytime running lights that cannot be turned off. This is because Volvo insists on putting DRL's on your car that are not required by law and gives you NO option to turn them off. However, changing the bulbs is a simple process that can be done by yourself after watching the mechanic do it. The headlights are held in by two clips that can be accessed under the hood. My low opinion of Volvo continues.

  5. Vladimir Dickens 2024-03-14

    I recently purchased a Volvo XC70 wagon with AWD and it only has 54K miles on it. While I have had some maintenance costs, I believe that is to be expected with any car. However, I have had some unexpected issues with the car that have been frustrating. Despite being driven gently by a senior lady, the RAD sensor failed twice in the first 34K miles and the passenger seatbelt retractor failed at 53K miles. Additionally, the engine vacuum pump was leaking and the ABS/DTSC light came on, causing the brakes to stop the car dead in the middle of an intersection. While I have my doubts about the sensor, the mechanic estimated it would cost $350 to fix. I also had to replace a broken rear coil spring and a leaking windshield. While these issues are frustrating, I understand that sometimes unexpected things happen with cars. Overall, I still believe that Volvos are quality cars and worth considering for purchase.The suspension of this supposedly premium car is a simple trailing arm suspension with separate tube shock. Once unbolted, the spring can be removed by hand. However, I found the 'top hat' to the coil spring to be rusty, which is unacceptable for a car with such low miles. The quality is missing. If you're considering buying a Volvo, I would advise against it. I had to wait 7 days for the spring to be shipped, but I was able to put it in myself in about 45 minutes once I had the car jacked on stands. You can find a demo of someone doing this on YouTube. By the way, I believe the RAD sensor is part of the smog equipment, and it's supposed to be warranty covered for 10 years by law, but unfortunately, they wouldn't cover it. Update: at 65K miles, the hood latch got stuck open, and I couldn't access it to lube it like a normal car because it was hidden. So, I had to take it to the shop. At 67K miles, the RH daytime headlamp went out, and I couldn't reach the bulb without possibly removing a panel under the hood, so I had to take it to the shop again. Also, the 'hood open' warning light lit even though the hood was closed, and the mechanic said the switch was 'stuck'. In my 55 years of driving, I never needed a light to tell me when the hood was open. That's two worthless things on the car: this light and the RAD sensor, which only serves to break and cost money to fix. I can't wait for the rest of the stupid stuff on it to do the same. Note: daytime lamps are not required by law, but Volvo put them on, and you can't turn them off. So, you have to enjoy replacing them when they burn out and running the alternator to replace that electricity, costing you fuel while you're driving with them on. It's frustrating. Edit: major disassembly is not required to change daytime running lights. For the second light, the mechanic showed me that the unit is removable, and you can change the bulb on the bench. Still, there should be a way to turn off the DRLs. At 70K miles now, the parking sensors are acting up, giving false signals, which is disturbing when driving. I can't imagine how much this fix will cost.

Positive 2011 Volvo Xc70 car reviews

  1. Curtis D'Amore 2025-01-09

    I also own a 2002 version of the xc70, and I must say, driving this 2010 version is a completely different experience. It's incredibly smooth and quiet, and sits a little higher off the ground. The stability on the freeway is impressive, which I think is due to those nice V-rated Continental Contact tires. So far, I'm really happy with this new purchase. -Joe

  2. Lyric Schmidt 2025-01-02

    Overall, I think this is a great car! As someone who has only owned Volvo wagons since 1980, I can confidently say that this 2011 model feels even more solid and sturdy than any of my previous or later models. While there have been a few reliability issues, Volvo has always been quick to address them. For example, when the engine started using a lot of oil at 85,000 miles, Volvo replaced the entire engine due to a bad batch of piston rings. While the wheels have never been properly balanced, causing a slight vibration at around 60 mph, I've learned to live with it. The brakes were also a bit of an issue, but a recent full replacement has fixed that problem. There are a few minor software quirks, such as the fog lights turning off when high beams are selected, but these are hardly deal-breakers. I will say that the headlights could be better, especially the high beams, but overall I'm very happy with this car. In fact, I recently purchased a second identical model and it's just as well-built as the first one! While I do miss the folding rear-view mirrors and the front seats aren't quite as comfortable, I'm sure they'll break in over time since the car has less than 30,000 miles.The headlights on the second car are markedly superior to those on the first car, even with standard bulbs. Additionally, there are no problems with wheel balance or braking, and the silly fog-light phenomenon described for the first car is absent. In summary, the second car is just as good as the first, and just as robust and 'heavy' in a good way. Although I would like to replace the first car with another 2011, given that it has 130,000 miles, I don't think I could find a low-mileage 2011 again. Since the first review, the first car has had the following major repairs, all of which were covered by an extended warranty policy: a new A/C compressor and a new motor for the driver's side mirror, which had failed.

  3. Reyes Blick 2024-09-26

    High Performance Turbo enhances MPG and Smiles Per Mile. Volvo's 2011 T6 engine makes it fun, fast and efficient.

  4. Wilfredo Schaefer 2024-09-10

    The car I purchased was loaded with everything except parking sensors and a power liftgate. It's a cream puff 2010 model with only 16,000 miles on it. After a day of negotiating with the sales staff, I was able to get it for 26 grand, which is quite a distance from the 43,000 it was stickered for 2 years ago. The car is tight, has plenty of room for my stuff, is quiet, and has all the power I need. Plus, since it doesn't have a turbo, it takes regular fuel and I can go over 400 miles per tankful. I was considering buying a new Outback for 32 grand, but this Volvo is more car for the money. However, it's important to keep in mind that it takes a big hit in its first 2 years. The mileage is what they claim, but if you drive a Volvo, you can afford it, right? Of course, right!

  5. Arno Sawayn 2024-08-22

    You know when you really like a car and you wish you had it. But, this one blew me away. It's probably the finest, most fun ride I've ever had.

Leave your review of 2011 Volvo Xc70

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2011 Volvo Xc70 problems:

Volvo XC70 issues/concerns? Looking at one this weekend, 3.2 ...
Volvo XC70 issues/concerns? Looking at one this weekend, 3.2 ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/Volvo/comments/ubzjug/volvo_xc70_issuesconcerns_looking_at_one_this/

Apr 26, 2022 ... I had a 2011 XC70 T6 and I would definitely ask if and how the transmission has been serviced. The 3.2, T6 and V8 engines are hard on those ...

2011 Volvo XC70 Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
2011 Volvo XC70 Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2011-volvo-xc70/problems

Top 2011 Volvo XC70 Problems · Transmission Will Not Shift Properly. 136 people have reported this. 63 · Slipping and Hard Shifts from Automatic Transmission.

XC70 T6 - Pre- or Post-2011? | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance ...
XC70 T6 - Pre- or Post-2011? | SwedeSpeed - Volvo Performance ...
https://www.swedespeed.com/threads/xc70-t6-pre-or-post-2011.378729/

Oct 21, 2016 ... Knowing that the 09-10 could be made to have roughly the same power takes away some of my concerns about buying those years. 2007 XC90 V8 Sport ...

Common issues with the XC70? : r/Volvo
Common issues with the XC70? : r/Volvo
https://www.reddit.com/r/Volvo/comments/187c90u/common_issues_with_the_xc70/

Nov 30, 2023 ... Common issues with the XC70? · PCV must be replaced every 30k kms (symptoms are high pitch noise, hard to remove oil cap, huge vacuum) · Brake ...

XC70 Problems (Advice Needed) | SwedeSpeed - Volvo ...
XC70 Problems (Advice Needed) | SwedeSpeed - Volvo ...
https://www.swedespeed.com/threads/xc70-problems-advice-needed.192858/

May 15, 2013 ... The sale of B7 Passat in US for 2011/2012 is 140,000 cars and 20% of this TDi's so it's about 30,000 cars, so the failure rate would about 1%.

Other years of Volvo Xc70

volvo xc70 2012 photo
Xc70 2012
Volvo

14

2

11

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc70 2013 photo
Xc70 2013
Volvo

6

2

17

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc70 2014 photo
Xc70 2014
Volvo

2

2

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc70 2015 photo
Xc70 2015
Volvo

4

1

19

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc70 2016 photo
Xc70 2016
Volvo

7

2

15

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc70 2001 photo
Xc70 2001
Volvo

66

5

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2011 Volvo Xc70?

Add car complaint
2011 Volvo Xc70 photo