2012 Volvo S60
2012 Volvo S60
Overview
The 2012 Volvo S60 is a premium compact executive sedan known for its safety features and comfortable ride. This generation, introduced in 2010, offered a range of turbocharged gasoline engines and front-wheel or all-wheel-drive configurations. While generally considered a reliable vehicle, like any car, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners and technicians. This report focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential issues across its powertrain, chassis, and electrical systems.
Engine
2.0L GTDi Turbocharged I4
Turbocharger Issues
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, increased oil consumption.
- Solution: Turbocharger inspection, repair, or replacement.
- Cost: $1,200 - $2,500
PCV System Clogging
- Symptoms: Engine oil leaks, rough idle, potential gasket failures.
- Solution: PCV system cleaning or replacement.
- Cost: $300 - $600
3.0L T6 Twin-Scroll Turbocharged I6
Coolant Leaks (Water Pump)
- Symptoms: Overheating, visible coolant puddles under the vehicle, sweet smell.
- Solution: Water pump replacement.
- Cost: $500 - $900
PCV System Clogging
- Symptoms: Engine oil leaks, rough idle, potential gasket failures.
- Solution: PCV system cleaning or replacement.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Transmission
Geartronic 6-Speed Automatic (AW F21)
Transmission Fluid Leaks
- Symptoms: Rough shifting, slipping gears, warning lights, low fluid level.
- Solution: Inspection and repair of seals, lines, or transmission pan gasket; fluid flush and refill.
- Cost: $400 - $1,000
Solenoid Issues
- Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission fault codes.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty solenoids or valve body.
- Cost: $800 - $1,800
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
General Electrical System
Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Difficulty starting, dimming lights, electrical components malfunctioning intermittently.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw, replacement of faulty modules or wiring.
- Cost: $200 - $700
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive controls, audio issues.
- Solution: Software updates, module reset, or replacement.
- Cost: $300 - $1,000
Exterior
Body and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Components
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2012 Volvo S60 is a solid choice for those prioritizing safety and comfort. While it doesn’t suffer from widespread critical failures, potential owners should be aware of common issues like turbocharger problems and PCV system clogging on the gasoline engines, and coolant leaks from the water pump on the T6. Transmission issues, though not rampant, can occur and typically involve leaks or solenoid failures. Electrical gremlins, particularly battery drain and infotainment glitches, are also noted. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to early symptoms can help mitigate these potential costs and ensure a reliable ownership experience.