2001 Volvo S60
2001 Volvo S60
Overview
The 2001 Volvo S60, a stylish and comfortable mid-size sedan, aimed to blend Scandinavian design with robust safety features. It offered a range of powertrain options, including turbocharged gasoline engines and a choice between manual and automatic transmissions. While generally considered a solid vehicle for its era, like any car, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for prospective buyers or current owners.
Engine
2.4L Naturally Aspirated (B5244S)
PCV System Clogs
- Symptoms: Oil leaks, rough idle, increased oil consumption, potential engine sludge.
- Solution: Regular cleaning or replacement of the PCV system components.
- Cost: $150 - $350
Camshaft Seal Leaks
- Symptoms: Oil seeping from the front of the engine, particularly around the timing belt cover.
- Solution: Replacement of the camshaft seals.
- Cost: $300 - $600
2.4L Turbocharged (B5244T3)
Turbocharger Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, blue smoke from exhaust.
- Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the turbocharger.
- Cost: $1000 - $2500
PCV System Clogs
- Symptoms: Oil leaks, rough idle, increased oil consumption, potential engine sludge.
- Solution: Regular cleaning or replacement of the PCV system components.
- Cost: $150 - $350
2.0L Turbocharged (B5204T4)
Turbocharger Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, blue smoke from exhaust.
- Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the turbocharger.
- Cost: $1000 - $2500
PCV System Clogs
- Symptoms: Oil leaks, rough idle, increased oil consumption, potential engine sludge.
- Solution: Regular cleaning or replacement of the PCV system components.
- Cost: $150 - $350
Transmission
AW55-50SN Automatic
Solenoid Failure
- Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty solenoids or valve body.
- Cost: $500 - $1200
Torque Converter Issues
- Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping gears, potential for complete failure.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Cost: $800 - $1800
M56 Manual
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Control Arm Bushing Wear
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn control arm bushings.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Strut Mount Failure
- Symptoms: Popping or creaking noises when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
- Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
- Cost: $250 - $500
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM)
BCM Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Intermittent issues with power windows, locks, lights, or dashboard warnings.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
- Cost: $600 - $1500
CEM Module Issues
Corrosion and Water Intrusion
- Symptoms: Various electrical gremlins, including non-functional lights, wipers, or instrument cluster issues.
- Solution: Cleaning and sealing the CEM module, or replacement if severely damaged.
- Cost: $400 - $1000
ABS Module Failure
ABS/TRACS Light Illumination
- Symptoms: ABS and Traction Control warning lights illuminated on the dashboard.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the ABS control module.
- Cost: $500 - $1200
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Lighting Systems
Headlight Condensation
- Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside headlight housings.
- Solution: Ensure seals are intact, or replace headlight assemblies if damage is severe.
- Cost: $100 - $400 per assembly
Interior
Climate Control System
HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure
- Symptoms: Blower fan only works on highest setting or not at all.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
- Cost: $100 - $250
Seat Upholstery
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2001 Volvo S60 is a generally reliable vehicle, particularly known for its safety and comfort. However, common issues tend to center around the PCV system in gasoline engines, potential turbocharger problems on turbocharged models, and some specific electrical gremlins related to the BCM and CEM modules. Automatic transmission solenoids and torque converters can also be a point of concern. Suspension components like control arm bushings and strut mounts may require attention over time. While not overwhelmingly problematic, potential buyers should be aware of these common repair areas and factor them into their ownership considerations.