2001 Volvo XC70 review from North America

I purchased a used 2001 Volvo XC AWD from the local garage, who purchased it at auction. I took it for a drive and all seemed well. I expected some repairs, but got more than I bargained for.

After two weeks, the transmission exhibited many of the faults the earlier readers mentioned. Clunking into low gear (1 and 2) when slowing down, and long engaging times after the transmission and engine are warm. Surging when shifting, etc. The car seems undependable.

I took it to my local Volvo service garage and to the dealer.

The local guy claims to have changed the fluid. No change in performance.

The dealer said the fluid was dirty, and they wanted to change the fluid and flush the transmission.

Neither set of service people would comment on the viability of the transmission.

After all the comments above, which I noted after I bought the car, I will probably try to sell the car. I paid $6,000, put $1,500 in repairs (includes the infamous $105,000 timing belt change). Now, the dealer cannot tell me what is wrong with the transmission. And the check engine light is on.

After all the comments and complaints above, it is time Volvo stepped up to the plate and informed their dealers to be honest with their customers and tell them why the transmissions are failing.

I also have a 2000 XC, and the transmission is running fine.

The car is comfortable. If the Dealer would tell me what is wrong with the transmission, I would feel more safe keeping the car. As it is, I feel like I am dealing with the airlines. They never tell the truth.

After reading the comments above, I strongly recommend not buying a 2001 Volvo with an automatic.

By the way, we also have a 2001 V70 T5 with a standard transmission, that is running great after $150,000 miles. No major problems, except the timing belt change and an engine mount problem. I think both of these should have been covered by Volvo.