Which Volvos have transmission problems?
Noah Mitchell
Published Jan 20, 2026
Here's the full list of affected cars:
- 2000–2004 Volvo C70.
- 2006–2013 Volvo C70.
- 2000–2013 Volvo S40.
- 2000–2007 Volvo S60.
- 2000–2006 Volvo S80.
- 2000–2004 Volvo V40.
- 2004–2013 Volvo V50.
- 2000–2007 Volvo S/V70.
Which XC90 have transmission problems?
Volvo XC90 model years 2003-2005 with the T6 engine were made with automatic transmissions that fail early and often. The parts guys at my Volvo dealership told me recently that it's the XC90 T6's that are the ones to avoid at all costs.
Do Volvos have alot of problems?
Compared to other luxury cars, Volvos have a relatively low number of reported problems. The model with the most issues, according to CarComplaints, is the XC90 SUV.
How long does transmission last on Volvo?
Volvo transmissions should last about 200,000 miles or 13 years before major repairs are needed.
How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a Volvo?
Volvo Transmission Cost
The cost of a new Volvo transmission could be over $3,500 depending on the vehicle, however, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are considerably less expensive, in some cases costing less than $150.
21 related questions foundIs it worth replacing a CVT transmission?
The CVTs won't last nearly as long as the standard automatic transmissions, and it's not surprising if they fail to run for more than 100K miles or less. Additionally, when they fail, nine times out of ten they will need replacing and not repair.
Is it worth fixing a transmission?
Rebuilding a transmission can save you a lot of money over the short-term, while keeping car payments out of your monthly budget. For many, rebuilding their transmission is worth the initial cost. Rebuilding a transmission may cost you twenty-five hundred dollars or more, which is a significant chunk of change.
Are Volvos good high mileage cars?
Volvo cars have long had the reputation of being able to endure high mileage with little difficulty, and with great reliability. The cars remain looking great despite their epic mileages.
Are Volvos expensive to repair?
Are Volvos Expensive to Service? While the Volvo brand is listed higher in cost on a list created by Your Mechanic Inc., Volvos are more affordable to maintain than other luxury brands. Over a ten-year period of ownership, Volvo models cost an average of $100 more to maintain than Audi models.
How much does it cost to replace a Volvo XC90 transmission?
Volvo XC90 Transmission Cost
The cost of a new Volvo XC90 transmission could be over $3,500 depending on the car, however, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are considerably less expensive, in some cases costing less than $150.
Why are Volvos so unreliable?
Software updates are another reason why Volvos are lower down the reliability scale. Volvos are packed full of technology and the more technology there is, the more elements there are that can go wrong. As anyone who has the latest phone with the newest operating system will know, sometimes updates go wrong.
Which Volvo is the most reliable?
If you prefer the classic station wagon, the Volvo V60 is a good candidate for reliability. The 2021 V60 is available in both gas engine and plug-in hybrid versions. Volvo vehicles offer some of the best safety features; the Volvo V60 is no exception.
Which Volvo engine is the most reliable?
"The S60's T6 engine is simply the best engine Volvo's ever produced," noted Doug Speck, President and CEO, Volvo Cars of North America, LLC. "It's powerful, smooth, and gets great fuel economy. We're honored that Ward's is recognizing the T6 engine as one of its 10 Best for 2011."
Is the XC90 reliable?
Volvo XC90 Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Volvo XC90 Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 8th out of 14 for luxury midsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $851 which means it has higher than average ownership costs.
Are Volvo XC90 expensive to maintain?
What is the cost of maintenance for a Volvo XC90 SUV? The average annual total for Volvo XC90 maintenance is estimated at $851. Maintenance costs entirely depend on your driving habits, how much you drive, any accidents, and other factors.
Are Volvos reliable used cars?
Volvo ranked last with an average reliability score of 22 out of 100, and Cadillac ranked second-to-last with a reliability score of 32.
Is Volvo really the safest car?
Now that we have established why Volvo is considered the safest automotive manufacturer around, the 2019 XC40 is the safest compact SUV, having been awarded a 2019 IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus. The 2019 XC60 is the safest midsize luxury SUV, having been awarded a 2019 IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Are Volvos hard to fix?
As for repairing Volvos, a study concluded that Volvo models were brought in for repair about 0.5 times per year. Of those cases, only 9% were considered in severe condition. Other vehicles averaged about 0.4 times a year, and 12% were considered severe.
Can Volvos be serviced anywhere?
You can get your Volvo oil change anywhere. Of course, the manufacturers would prefer that you get this service at their authorized retailers, but this is a relatively simple task. Your trusted mechanic can do this just as efficiently and effectively.
Should I buy a Volvo with 100000 miles?
Experts used to tell drivers that one should never buy a used vehicle with more than 100,000 miles on the odometer. However, if the vehicle has been properly maintained, the cutoff point for good mileage on a used car may actually be much higher!
What is the average life of a Volvo?
That being said, with the proper care the average lifespan of a Volvo is typically 20 years with over 200,000 miles.
Is 100 000 miles a lot for a Volvo?
Not really.... Most folks that buy Volvos, know that at 100k they are just being broken in and know that if properly maintained will do well over 300k and also know that they are one of the safest vehicles. With that said, Volvo enthusiasts and some fanatics like myself will pay good money on a clean, cared for car!
What are the signs your transmission is going out?
What Are the Transmission Failure Symptoms?
- Refusal to Switch Gears. If your vehicle refuses or struggles to change gears, you are more than likely facing a problem with your transmission system. ...
- Burning Smell. ...
- Noises When in Neutral. ...
- Slipping Gears. ...
- Dragging Clutch. ...
- Leaking Fluid. ...
- Check Engine Light. ...
- Grinding or Shaking.
Is it cheaper to rebuild or replace a transmission?
A transmission replace is the most expensive option when fixing your transmission. In many cases you will hear this referred to as “re-manufactured.” Basically, the manufacturer will replace parts that have gone bad with modified parts. This is an option if the transmission is too damaged to even consider a rebuild.
Is it better to get a new transmission or new car?
If you answered any time period longer than 2 years then consider replacing the transmission. This helps you get your moneys worth out of the new transmission before selling the vehicle. If your car is still worth a good amount of money it is recommended that you get the car fixed.