2005 Volvo S60

2005 Volvo S60

Overview

The 2005 Volvo S60, a premium compact executive sedan, is generally known for its robust build quality and safety features. While it offers a comfortable ride and a refined driving experience, like any vehicle of its age, it can exhibit specific reliability concerns. This analysis focuses on common reported issues beyond routine maintenance, highlighting areas that may require attention for owners of this model year. We will examine engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior components to provide a comprehensive reliability overview.

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Engine

2.4L Naturally Aspirated (B5244S2)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil stains under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $300 - $700

PCV System Clog

• Symptoms: Rough idle, increased oil consumption, engine misfires, potential for oil leaks.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system components.
• Cost: $200 - $500

2.5L Turbocharged (B5254T2)

Turbocharger Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, blue smoke from exhaust.
• Solution: Turbocharger rebuild or replacement.
• Cost: $1000 - $2500

PCV System Clog

• Symptoms: Rough idle, increased oil consumption, engine misfires, potential for oil leaks.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system components.
• Cost: $200 - $500

2.0L Turbocharged (B4204T3)

Turbocharger Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, blue smoke from exhaust.
• Solution: Turbocharger rebuild or replacement.
• Cost: $1000 - $2500

PCV System Clog

• Symptoms: Rough idle, increased oil consumption, engine misfires, potential for oil leaks.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system components.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Transmission

AW55-50SN Automatic Transmission

Solenoid Failure

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission warning light, slipping gears.
• Solution: Replacement of transmission solenoids.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, difficulty engaging gears.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

M56 Manual Transmission

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or entire control arms.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Worn Struts/Shocks

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, reduced handling.
• Solution: Replacement of front or rear struts/shocks.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

BCM Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, non-functioning accessories (windows, locks, lights), warning lights.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

ABS Module

ABS Module Failure

• Symptoms: ABS warning light illuminated, loss of ABS functionality.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the ABS module.
• Cost: $600 - $1000

Exterior

Body Panels & Trim

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Lighting

Headlight Condensation

• Symptoms: Moisture or fogging inside headlight assemblies.
• Solution: Sealing headlight assemblies or replacement.
• Cost: $100 - $400

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

Upholstery & Trim

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

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Summary Verdict

The 2005 Volvo S60 is a solid vehicle with a reputation for safety and durability. Common issues tend to be related to age and mileage, particularly concerning oil leaks from seals and gaskets, and potential PCV system clogs on the gasoline engines. Automatic transmission solenoids and torque converters can also be a point of concern. Electrical gremlins, especially related to the BCM and ABS module, are not uncommon. Suspension components like bushings and shocks will likely require attention on higher mileage examples. While not immune to problems, most issues are addressable with proper maintenance and timely repairs, making the S60 a potentially reliable choice if well-maintained.