Volvo V70
Drive-E turbocharged four-cylinder with 2.0 litres and 187 kW for the T5 range. Larger turbocharger than the T4 with higher boost pressure for a more sporting character. Eight-speed Aisin automatic as standard; strictly observe oil change intervals.
Estate with turbo power
T5 four-cylinder in the big V70 — quicker than the T4, but the T6 makes more of an impression.
Engine Weaknesses 6
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)
Vehicle Weaknesses 8
The steering rack of the V70 III and S80 II develops leaks and increasing play at high mileages. A faulty steering rack costs around €2,000 to repair.
The front subframe on the V70 III and XC70 II frequently shows corrosion, which, if left untreated, affects the entire front axle assembly. On the XC70 II, the rear subframe also rusts on vehicles built before 2010.
The optional electronic self-levelling suspension on the V70 III XC models fails. Compressor or air springs need replacement; costs up to €1,600 with original Volvo parts.
The tailgate wiring harness breaks at the left hinge arc through metal fatigue. Particularly affected are the rear window heating element, brake lights, wiper and central locking. Typical and very common problem on the V70 III and XC70 II.
The rear control arm rubber bushings on the V70 III and XC70 II typically wear from 160,000–170,000 km and cause driving noises. Also a known issue on the S80 II. Replacement is essential for precise handling.
The audio and navigation system of the V70 III and S80 II fails due to cold solder joints in the control unit. Parking sensors fail at around 170,000 km. Xenon headlights burn out between 170,000 and 200,000 km.
The BLIS blind spot warning system fails due to moisture in the wiring harness or faults in the wing mirror sensors. The warning system remains permanently active or stops responding.
The leather and T-Tec upholstery on the V70 III and S80 II tends to crack and split at the seat bolsters of the driver's seat. This often begins at medium mileages.
Reports & Tests
30 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2007–2016). Most reported: Electrical (8), Engine (6), Tires (3).