1998 Volvo S70 GLT review from North America
"I expected much more from a Volvo"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I have had to regularly replace brake and taillight bulbs. At least one has to be replaced every two months. The suspension is very stiff. Hitting a pot hole causes CD player to skip. It doesn't feel like there is any absorption taking place at all. I had the shocks checked and they were fine. Had problem with front end brakes where there was too much resistance while driving causing poor mileage and excessive where on pads. I had to have pads and rotors replaced at 75,000 miles. An engine sensor malfunctioned, causing service engine light to remain on. Certified Volvo repair shop confirmed it was the sensor that was broken and nothing else with the engine. In the state in which I live, my car will not pass emissions check if any service lights are on. I had to pay $750 US to have it fixed. Most recently, my dash board lights are not working when headlights are on. If I turn headlights off, dash comes on. As of yesterday, the headlights now do not work. I think it is a defect in the switch. Lastly, I actually had water dripping through my cabin light switches next to my review mirror. I have no idea how that happened. I have a 1998 Honda Accord that has a few problems, but nothing like the nagging issues of my Volvo.
General comments?
Safety features are very good; side airbags, reinforced body, anti-lock braking system.
Interior is nice as well the heated seats.
Could be more fuel efficient.
I am very disappointed with the electrical issues associated with this vehicle. I have never experienced anything close to these problems and I find it very interesting that I am not the only one. I don't believe it is a coincidence. I am waiting for a recall notice.
Recommended reviews
| Adequate performance, but too high-maintenance |
| Great car thanks to 1st-rate previous owners and overall excellent quality to begin with |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 1998 |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | turbo Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 40000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 104000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 31st January, 2005 |