Are Volvos Reliable? A Comprehensive Look at Their Dependability
Volvo has been producing cars since 1927, and over the years, the brand has become synonymous with safety, reliability, and luxury. However, when it comes to reliability, many people are still skeptical about whether or not Volvo cars are truly reliable.
If you’re enjoying this article, you may want to check out Best and Worst Volvo XC90 Years to learn more about the popular car model’s performance over time. If you are just starting your search, a full review of each Volvo SUV may be helpful.
In recent years, Volvo has made significant strides in the automotive industry, particularly in the areas of safety, technology, and design. The brand has also introduced a range of hybrid and electric vehicles, which have been well-received by consumers. Despite these advancements, the question of whether Volvo cars are reliable remains a topic of debate.
When it comes to safety, Volvo is known for setting the bar high. The brand has established its own safety standards, which are often more stringent than those required by law. In terms of long-term reliability, Volvo cars have a reputation for lasting a long time, with many owners reporting few major issues over the years. However, like any car, Volvo vehicles do require regular maintenance, and some models may have higher maintenance costs than others.
Volvo’s Reliability Reputation
We had a 1984 Volvo 240DL station wagon growing up. My parents bought it because it was a safe and reliable vehicle, and they wanted to protect our family.
When I turned 16, I had to was fortunate to drive the Volvo, which had well over 200,000 miles at the time. The car was absolutely bulletproof! In all of the years my family owned the Volvo, the only repair outside of routine maintenance was the air conditioning condenser went bad.
As a kid, I did everything I could to kill that Volvo in hopes of not having to drive a station wagon. I even went so far as to drive it offroad, yet it kept on ticking. We ended up selling that station wagon to a graduate student at Duke for $900 when it had over 244,000 miles on it.
Needless to say, they made a believer out of my family and me back in the 1980s, but a lot of time has passed since then. Our family has owned a Volvo XC90 (prior generation) and the only thing that ever went wrong with it was the passenger door locked with a friend inside, and we could not get it to unlock (it was quite funny at the time).
Today, countless friends and neighbors have the new XC40, XC60, and XC90 Volvo vehicles. I counted four XC 90’s and one XC 60 in the neighborhood when driving my daughter to school this morning. When asked, our friends say safety features were the big motivator for their decision to buy a Volvo. Still, they have not had any major mechanical or reliability issues to report.
Volvo has been known for its safety features and high-quality engineering, but how reliable are they? In this section, we will explore Volvo’s reliability reputation and what various sources have to say about it.
Owner Reviews on Edmunds
The Volvo XC90 has received mixed reviews from its owners on Edmunds.com. Some have had negative experiences, with one owner reporting a faulty module that caused multiple visits to the shop for repairs.
Another owner experienced shuddering, jolting in reverse, and several issues with the car’s airbag light and power steering. Despite these problems, other owners have been pleased with their XC90, with one noting the comfortable driving experience, excellent sound system, and first-rate interior quality.
Another was impressed by the car’s safety features and peppy performance. Overall, the XC90 has received an average rating of 3.5 stars, with some owners experiencing reliability issues while others have been satisfied with their purchase.
Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports is a reliable source of information about the reliability of cars. According to their 2022 Annual Auto Survey, Volvo ranks 16th out of 32 brands for reliability. This shows that while Volvo is not the most reliable brand, it is still above average in terms of reliability.
In terms of specific models, the Volvo XC60 and XC90 have both received high scores for reliability. The XC60 has a score of 4 out of 5, while the XC90 has a score of 3 out of 5.
RepairPal
RepairPal is another source of information about car reliability. They provide ratings for different aspects of car reliability, such as the cost of repairs and the likelihood of a car needing repairs. According to RepairPal, Volvo ranks 20th out of 32 brands for reliability.
However, it is important to note that RepairPal’s ratings are based on reported repairs and not necessarily on the overall reliability of the car. This means that a car with a high RepairPal rating may not necessarily be more reliable than a car with a lower rating.
In terms of specific models, the Volvo S60 and S80 have both received high ratings for reliability from RepairPal.
Overall, while Volvo may not be the most reliable brand on the market, it is still above average in terms of reliability. Additionally, specific models such as the XC60, XC90, S60, and S80 have received high scores for reliability from various sources.
Common Volvo Problems
Volvo is a brand that’s known for its safety features and reliability. However, like all cars, Volvos are not immune to problems. Here are some of the most common issues that Volvo owners may experience.
Transmission Failure
One of the most significant issues that Volvo owners may face is transmission failure. This can happen with both manual and automatic transmissions. Signs of transmission failure include slipping gears, difficulty shifting, and strange noises coming from the transmission.
There are several reasons why a Volvo’s transmission may fail. One common cause is a lack of maintenance. If the transmission fluid is not changed regularly, it can become contaminated and cause damage to the transmission.
Another cause of transmission failure is overheating. If the transmission gets too hot, it can cause the fluid to break down, which can lead to damage.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Another common problem that Volvo owners may experience is excessive oil consumption. This is when the car uses more oil than it should, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
There are several reasons why a Volvo may consume too much oil. One common cause is a leak in the engine. If there is a leak, oil can escape and not be properly circulated throughout the engine, leading to excessive consumption.
Another cause of excessive oil consumption is a faulty PCV valve. This valve is responsible for regulating the flow of air and oil vapors through the engine. If it’s not working correctly, it can cause oil to be consumed at a higher rate.
In conclusion, while Volvos are generally reliable cars, they are not immune to problems. Transmission failure and excessive oil consumption are two of the most common issues that Volvo owners may face. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any warning signs can help prevent these problems from becoming more serious.
Volvo Models
When it comes to reliability, Volvo has a reputation for producing dependable vehicles. But how do their individual models stack up? Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular Volvo models.
Volvo S60
The Volvo S60 is a compact luxury sedan that offers a comfortable ride and plenty of safety features. It comes with a choice of engines, including a powerful T8 hybrid option. The S60 also boasts a sleek and modern exterior design, with available features like a panoramic sunroof and LED headlights.
Volvo V60
The Volvo V60 is a wagon version of the S60, offering more cargo space and versatility. It shares many of the same features as the S60, including a choice of engines and a stylish exterior design. The V60 also comes with standard all-wheel drive for improved performance in all weather conditions.
Volvo XC40
The Volvo XC40 is a compact SUV that offers a perfect balance of performance, comfort, and style. It comes with a choice of engines, including a fuel-efficient hybrid option. The XC40 also features a spacious and well-designed interior, with plenty of standard safety and technology features.
Here’s what to look out for when buying a used XC40.
Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 is a full-size luxury SUV that offers exceptional comfort and performance. It comes with a choice of engines, including a plug-in hybrid option for improved fuel efficiency. The XC90 also boasts a sleek and modern exterior design, with available features like LED headlights and a panoramic sunroof.
Here’s what to look out for when buying a used Volvo XC90.
Volvo S90
The Volvo S90 is a full-size luxury sedan that offers a smooth and comfortable ride. It comes with a choice of engines, including a powerful T8 hybrid option. The S90 also features a spacious and well-designed interior, with plenty of standard safety and technology features.
Volvo V90
The Volvo V90 is a wagon version of the S90, offering more cargo space and versatility. It shares many of the same features as the S90, including a choice of engines and a stylish exterior design. The V90 also comes with standard all-wheel drive for improved performance in all weather conditions.
Overall, Volvo models are known for their reliability and safety features, making them a popular choice for families and individuals alike. With a range of models to choose from, there’s a Volvo that’s perfect for every driver.
Volvo’s Safety Standards
Safety Standards Overview
Volvo has been known for its commitment to safety for many years. The company has set the standard for safety in the automotive industry and has been recognized for its efforts. Volvo’s safety standards cover a wide range of areas, including crash testing, safety features, and driver assistance technologies.
One of the key safety features that Volvo offers is the City Safety system. This system can detect other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists and automatically apply the brakes if a collision is imminent. Additionally, Volvo’s safety standards include a variety of airbags, seat belts, and other safety features to protect passengers in the event of an accident.
Safety Recall
While Volvo’s safety standards are generally considered to be top-notch, the company has had to issue safety recalls in the past. In 2020, Volvo issued a recall for over 2 million vehicles due to a potential problem with the seat belts. The company discovered that the seat belts in certain models may not function properly in the event of a crash, which could increase the risk of injury to passengers.
Volvo has been proactive in addressing safety concerns and issuing recalls when necessary. The company has a dedicated team that monitors safety issues and works to identify and address potential problems before they become serious issues.
Overall, Volvo’s safety standards are among the best in the industry. The company has a long history of prioritizing safety and has been recognized for its efforts. While there have been some safety recalls in the past, Volvo has demonstrated a commitment to addressing safety concerns and ensuring that its vehicles are as safe as possible for drivers and passengers.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
When it comes to owning a vehicle, one of the most significant costs is maintenance and repairs. Volvo owners can expect to pay slightly above average for these expenses, but the quality of the car and its longevity make up for the extra costs.
According to RepairPal, the average annual maintenance cost for a Volvo is $769, which is higher than the average of $652 for all other vehicles. However, Volvo owners have reported that their cars require less frequent repairs than other luxury brands, which can save them money in the long run.
Volvo offers a comprehensive warranty that covers all new cars for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty includes all scheduled maintenance during that time, which can help offset the cost of maintenance during the first few years of ownership.
As the car ages, owners can expect to pay more for repairs. However, Volvo’s reputation for reliability means that owners may not need to make as many repairs as they would with other brands.
It’s important to note that maintenance and repair costs can vary depending on the specific model and year of the Volvo. For example, the cost of replacing a timing belt on a 2015 Volvo XC60 can range from $1,000 to $1,500, while the cost of replacing the same part on a 2010 Volvo XC60 can be as low as $500.
Overall, while Volvo owners may pay slightly more for maintenance and repairs, the quality and reliability of the car make it a worthwhile investment.
Did you know the Hybrid Volvo XC90 Can Tow? Curious? Check out this article 7 Hybrid SUV And Truck Models That Tow 5000+ Lbs!
Are Volvo cars reliable?
Yes, Volvo cars are generally considered to be reliable. In fact, Consumer Reports has consistently ranked Volvo among the most reliable car brands in recent years.
What is the average lifespan of a Volvo car?
The average lifespan of a Volvo car can vary depending on the model and how well it is maintained. However, with proper care and maintenance, many Volvo cars can last for over 200,000 miles.
Do Volvos have any common reliability issues?
Like any car brand, Volvos can experience common reliability issues. For example, some older Volvo models have been known to experience transmission problems, while some newer models have had issues with their infotainment systems.
What steps can I take to ensure my Volvo is reliable?
To ensure your Volvo is reliable, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and address any issues as soon as they arise. Regularly changing the oil, keeping the tires properly inflated, and replacing worn out parts can also help keep your Volvo running smoothly.
Should I be concerned about the reliability of a used Volvo?
Should I be concerned about the reliability of a used Volvo? A: Like any used car, it’s important to do your research and have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before making a purchase. However, Volvo cars are generally considered to be reliable and many used Volvos have been well-maintained and can provide years of reliable service.
Are Volvos more expensive to maintain than other cars?
Volvos may be slightly more expensive to maintain than some other car brands due to their higher parts and labor costs. However, regular maintenance and addressing any issues as soon as they arise can help prevent costly repairs down the line.
Do newer Volvo cars have better reliability than older models?
Generally speaking, newer Volvo cars have better reliability than older models due to advances in technology and engineering. However, this can vary depending on the specific model and how well it is maintained.