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2007 Volvo S80

2007 Volvo S80

Overview

The 2007 Volvo S80, a luxury sedan, aimed to blend Scandinavian design with robust engineering. While generally considered a reliable vehicle, like any car of its age, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners and mechanics. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for the 2007 S80 across its various engine and transmission configurations. Understanding these common points of failure can assist owners in proactive maintenance and informed repair decisions.


Engine

2.5L Turbocharged I5 (B5254T2)

PCV System Clogging

  • Symptoms: Whining noises from the engine, oil leaks, increased oil consumption, potential for engine seal failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system or its filter.
  • Cost: $200 - $500

Turbocharger Failure

  • Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, blue smoke from exhaust, check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement or rebuild.
  • Cost: $1500 - $3000

3.2L Naturally Aspirated I6 (B6324S)

Timing Chain Issues

  • Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup; check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Cost: $1200 - $2500

4.4L V8 Naturally Aspirated (B8444S)

Camshaft Position Sensor Failure

  • Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft position sensor.
  • Cost: $150 - $300

Transmission

Geartronic Automatic (AW55-50SN/AW55-51SN)

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure

  • Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping gears, transmission warning light, failure to engage gears.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the TCM.
  • Cost: $500 - $1500

Solenoid Issues

  • Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed engagement, harsh shifts.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty shift solenoids.
  • Cost: $400 - $800

Geartronic Automatic (TF-80SC)

No widespread issues reported.

  • Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
  • Solution: No widespread issues reported.
  • Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No Major Issues

  • Symptoms: No Major Issues
  • Solution: No Major Issues
  • Cost: No Major Issues

Electrical

General Electrical System

CEM Module Issues

  • Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, warning lights, non-functional accessories (e.g., power windows, lights).
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the Central Electronic Module (CEM).
  • Cost: $600 - $1200

Battery Drain

  • Symptoms: Battery dies unexpectedly, electrical components malfunction.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic draw, or replacement of faulty modules causing drain.
  • Cost: $200 - $700

Exterior

Body and Trim

No Major Issues

  • Symptoms: No Major Issues
  • Solution: No Major Issues
  • Cost: No Major Issues

Interior

Cabin Electronics and Features

Climate Control System Malfunctions

  • Symptoms: AC or heater not working correctly, fan speed issues, unusual noises from the HVAC system.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of blower motor, control module, or blend door actuators.
  • Cost: $300 - $800

Summary Verdict

The 2007 Volvo S80 offers a generally solid ownership experience, with its most common technical concerns revolving around the PCV system and turbocharger on the 2.5T engine, and timing chain issues on the 3.2L. The V8 engine has fewer reported widespread issues. Automatic transmissions, particularly the older AW55 series, can experience issues with their control modules and solenoids. Electrical gremlins, often traced to the CEM module or parasitic battery drain, are also noted. While the suspension, exterior, and interior are relatively robust, climate control system issues can arise. Proactive maintenance, especially concerning the PCV system and timely transmission fluid changes, can mitigate many potential problems.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.