Volvo S60
Strongest D5 variant with 158 kW and 440 Nm, bi-turbo charged for dynamic performance. Most powerful development stage of the proven 5-cylinder diesel with Euro 5 standard. Fitted in the more sporting diesel versions of all large Volvo model ranges.
D5 with authority
158 kW diesel in the S60 II: noticeably more punch than the base variant. Convincing for diesel enthusiasts.
Engine Weaknesses 4
Replacement interval 160,000 km or 10 years — also on the automatic variant (175 hp version). Belt-driven water pump must always be replaced at the same time.
Symptoms: No warning signal. Belt failure leads to engine damage.
The final D5244T15 also retains the copper seal problem of the D5 family at the injector copper rings. Sealing integrity should be checked regularly on vehicles over 5 years old.
Symptoms: Black deposits around injectors, exhaust smell, misfires.
DPF on the D5244T15 clogs like all D5 generations with predominantly short-trip use. Longer motorway runs for active regeneration are recommended.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, power loss, oil level rises (diesel in oil), increased fuel consumption.
EGR valve becomes contaminated by soot from exhaust gases. If the flap actuator sticks, exhaust gas recirculation fails and emissions exceed the limit.
Symptoms: Power loss, check engine light (P0400), black smoke, increased fuel consumption.
Vehicle Weaknesses 11
The five-cylinder diesel D5 is prone to cylinder head cracks and worn cylinder liners, particularly on models built between 2010 and 2013. Coolant loss without a visible leak is the first warning sign.
The 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox 6DCT450 shows juddering on pull-away, rough gear changes and transmission fluid loss. Neglecting fluid changes risks complete transmission failure.
A software fault can cause the electric parking brake on models up to 2014 to release unintentionally. A Volvo recall and software update fix the problem.
A faulty weld between the rotor shaft and the hydraulic brake assembly was found on the V90 II and S90 II. If it fails, ABS, ESC and brake assist are disabled. Volvo issued a recall in 2021.
On XC60 II vehicles built between September 2018 and April 2019, nuts and bolts at the rear axle may be too loose. Handling can change abruptly; check recall status.
Water gets into the windscreen wiper motor and causes it to fail. SPA platform models are affected; a 2020 recall addressed incorrectly tightened wiper arms. Visibility in rain significantly impaired.
At higher mileages, worn tie rod ends, ball joints and suspension bushings on the S60 II/V60 I are frequently flagged by MOT inspectors. Tyre wear is very sensitive on this vehicle.
The audio and navigation system in the S60 II/V60 I fails due to cold solder joints on the control unit board — a known issue across this Volvo model generation. Replacement units cost over €700.
The Sensus infotainment system on the SPA platform (XC60 II, S90 II, V90 II, S60 III, V60 II) freezes or reboots while driving. Software updates improve stability. Steering wheel controls drop out sporadically.
The optional panoramic roof on the V90 II and S90 II shows malfunctions when opening/closing automatically. Faulty sensors or motor controllers can be expensive; water ingress possible if the seal is damaged.
The BLIS blind spot sensor on the S60 II/V60 I reacts to moisture ingress in the wiring harness with false alarms or complete system failure. Recalibration or sensor replacement is required.
Reports & Tests
333 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2010–2018). Most reported: Engine (138), Other (50), Electrical (41).