Volvo XC70
D5 with two-stage sequential turbocharging for 151 kW and immediate response from low RPM. Small turbo for responsiveness, large turbo for high-load work. Complex to maintain due to the two-stage turbo system.
Solid everyday performance
Enough power for relaxed cruising. Not a sports car, but a dependable companion that never gets tired.
Engine Weaknesses 4
On the later D5244T10, injector copper seals can also leak. The two-stage turbocharging system increases cylinder pressure, placing greater stress on sealing surfaces.
Symptoms: Black deposits around injectors, fuel smell, misfires, rough engine running.
The intake manifold swirl flap on the D5244T10 carries the same design problem as in the T4. The plastic linkage fatigues and breaks; loose parts can cause engine damage.
Symptoms: Check engine light, rattling intake noise, power loss, possible engine damage on complete failure.
Replacement interval 160,000 km or 10 years. On the two-stage turbo diesel, engine damage from belt failure is even more costly — so maintenance must not be skipped.
Symptoms: No warning signal. Belt failure leads to immediate engine damage.
DPF on the D5244T10 clogs with frequent urban use. Interrupted regeneration dilutes engine oil with diesel. The two-stage turbo loses efficiency with a sooted intake tract.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, power loss, oil level rises (diesel in oil), increased fuel consumption.
Vehicle Weaknesses 16
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.
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 C70 II infotainment system fails through control unit defects and connectivity problems. Replacement units are available; climate control can also be affected.
The C70 II brake discs wear relatively quickly and tend to warp. This shows up as pedal pulsation and steering wheel vibration under braking. Quality discs reduce the problem.
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
108 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2006–2013). Most reported: Body Structure (42), Other (25), Electrical (14).
144 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2007–2016). Most reported: Wipers & Visibility (17), Engine (14), Electrical (13).