2001 Volvo V70 T5 from North America - Comments

Front control arms replaced under warranty at 6,000 miles.

Transmission problems at 8,000 miles. Hard downshift between 2nd and 1st gear.

Replaced three headlight bulbs before 25,000 miles. I also had to replace the license plate bulbs at 32,000 miles.

Experienced difficulty starting the car in cold weather. It ran very rich and required dealer service.

Thermostat stopped working at 28,000 miles. Required replacement.

Blew a high pressure power steering hose at 51,000 miles.

Ball joints wore out at 60,000 miles.

Various electrical problems occurred at 63,000 miles. The power door lock mechanism stopped working. At the same time the rear window wiper stopped working.

This car was very powerful and fun to drive.

However the build quality was terrible and far from what I expected from Volvo.

There is a problem of excessive sun glare reflection on the windshield. The dashboard reflects onto the windshield.

the ball joints on my 2000 V70 wore out even earlier... at 60,000 kms (about 40,000 miles)

Same experience here...V70 T5 was probably the best and worst car I have ever owned (if that makes any sense??) Great power, great seats, great ride WHEN the car is working properly, which seemed like almost never. Can't remember if I actually drove the car without experiencing a problem or warning light come on. Seems like most owners have experienced the same type of problems. Why is Volvo not issuing recalls like other auto manufacturers?

I have to agree with the last comment. This is the most comfortable vehicle I've ever owned, but it's a love/hate relationship.

I purchased my 2001 V70 T5 used but certified. Girl here, so excuse the lack of technical reference.

I had numerous problems with the car - mostly the front end. The front end has been completely rebuilt by the dealership. Still having problems and is now out of warranty.

I'm of the belief there is an engineering defect that Volvo won't own up to. I've spoken with several people who have experienced the same problems.

The transmission slips randomly. I've had 3 expensive software downloads but no permanent fix. Light bulbs burn out very frequently. They are easy to replace myself, but I've never had issues like this with any US or Japanese vehicle. I've spent about $2,000 each year on repairs/replacements for this vehicle.

The low profile tires are dangerous in wet or slick road conditions unless the tires are new. Can't use a "regular" tire unless new rims are purchased. I'm on a 2nd set of tires within 50,000 miles.

The suspension is horrible unless driving on a newly paved road.

Don't even think about pulling out into traffic quickly. Severe turbo lag.

I'll not purchase another Volvo, but will drive this one until the wheels fall off. Let's just hope that doesn't literally happen. My '72 Gremlin was more reliable than my beautiful Vowag!