Volvo V60

All Drive-E T variants use belt drive. On the T5 with high-pressure turbo, the belt change is especially important — a failure causes immediate total engine damage. Recommendation: early change at 100,000 km.

Symptoms: No warning before sudden failure; possible squealing with failing tensioner

The high-output T5 Drive-E shares the piston ring problem with the T4. Vehicles up to MY2016 are particularly affected. Increased oil consumption is systemic and was covered by a class action lawsuit.

Symptoms: Oil consumption above 0.5 L/1,000 km, blue smoke on warm-engine acceleration, oil level drops noticeably between changes

The Drive-E T5 uses a timing belt (not a chain). Volvo's stated change interval is 150,000 miles / 10 years, but specialists recommend considerably earlier (120,000–150,000 km). Belt failure causes engine damage.

Symptoms: No early warning signs typical — sudden engine stop without prior indication at belt failure. Prevention: inspect for cracking at every service

The T5 is among the most frequently affected Drive-E engines for the oil consumption problem. Particularly 2015–2017 model years were addressed under a service campaign (S29650). Volvo extended the warranty to 8 years.

Symptoms: Oil level drops noticeably between changes, occasional blue smoke, no visible external oil loss

The crankcase ventilation of the T5 Drive-E clogs when oil change intervals are neglected. Crankcase pressure forces oil past seals, accelerates oil consumption and can cause turbocharger damage.

Symptoms: Overpressure at oil filler, oil in air filter housing, elevated oil consumption

Rubber boost pipes to the intercooler age and burst under driving conditions. On the T5, more frequent than on the T4 due to higher boost pressures. A short-term repair is often possible, but permanent hose replacement is recommended.

Symptoms: Sudden power loss, whistling or hissing noise, check engine light P0299 (turbo underboost)

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.

Loose flange nuts on the rear toe link can abruptly worsen handling. Check for Volvo recall; affects S60 and V60 from September 2018.

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.

MOT reports criticise above-average wear on tie rod ends, ball joints and suspension bushings at the front axle of the V60 III. This occurs earlier with heavier engine variants or sporty driving.

On the V60 III, the optional panoramic sunroof drainage channels block with leaves and dirt. Backed-up water enters the interior, often under the dashboard or onto the rear seat.