Volvo XC70

Engines before model year 2012 had a known piston ring problem with elevated oil consumption. Volvo offered an 8-year / 100,000-mile warranty extension. Revised pistons and rings from 2012.

Symptoms: Rapidly dropping oil level, blue exhaust smoke, engine oil blackens faster than normal.

The SI6 timing chain is fundamentally robust and 'engine-life' rated. Rare but documented: chain tensioner gives up and chain slaps. Repair on this engine is very labour-intensive.

Symptoms: Rattling or chattering noise from top of engine especially cold, check engine light, P0340 fault.

The B6304T4 thermostat sticks in the closed position, especially when it has not been changed for a long time. The warm-up phase is normal, but then it fails to open and engine temperature climbs to critical levels.

Symptoms: Engine temperature rises too high after a short drive, temperature warning, poor heater output in cold weather

SI6 B6304T4 PCV diaphragm tears and produces a hissing noise. Damaged PCV increases crankcase pressure and can damage seals. Typical long-life wear item on this engine.

Symptoms: Whistling hissing noise from engine bay especially at idle, oil seeping, rough idle.

Like its predecessor the B6304T2, the B6304T4 PCV diaphragm is also a known wear item. The diaphragm tears, causes hissing noises, and allows oil vapour into the intake tract. Replacing the membrane alone is often not a lasting fix — complete box replacement recommended.

Symptoms: Hissing at idle, elevated oil consumption, oil mist on air filter hose

The B6304T4 received Volvo's revised piston rings but remains sensitive to poor oil change discipline. Neglected PCV maintenance accelerates piston ring wear. Maximum 10,000 km oil change interval.

Symptoms: Increasing oil consumption above 200,000 km, blue smoke under load, slightly cloudy oil

The electro-hydraulic 3-piece folding hardtop of the C70 II shows typical wear on hydraulic pumps and sensors. The roof mechanism is excluded from extended warranties; repairs can be costly.

The optional Powershift dual-clutch gearbox of the C70 II is prone to judder, delayed gear changes, and gearbox oil loss. Regular oil changes every 60,000 km are essential.

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.

Water enters through the folding roof rubber seals during washing or rain, particularly at the rear left and right. Interior dampness and mould are the result.

Door bottom edges and areas under the window seals rust through on the C70 II. Treatment is needed as soon as first bubbles appear; open rust spreads rapidly.

The C70 II front axle shows wear on control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut top mounts at higher mileages. Knocking and steering imprecision follow. Typical of the Ford-based platform of the second generation.

The C70 II electric window regulators are prone to cable breaks and failed carriers. Particularly critical on the convertible as the window must function correctly for roof operation.

The C70 II A/C compressor develops rough running noises at higher mileages from a worn magnetic clutch bearing. Without timely bearing replacement, the compressor risks seizing.