2012 Volvo S80
Introduction:
The 2012 Volvo S80 is a full-size luxury sedan that offers a refined and comfortable driving experience. It comes standard with a 3.2-liter inline-6 engine that produces 240 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 (300 horsepower, 325 lb-ft), a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (240 horsepower, 258 lb-ft), and a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-5 (250 horsepower, 266 lb-ft). The S80 is available with either a 6-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission. Despite its overall reliability, the 2012 Volvo S80 has encountered some issues that owners should be aware of.
Engine
3.2-liter Inline-6
- PCV Valve Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: The PCV valve fails, causing excessive oil consumption and a rough idle.
- Solution: Replace the PCV valve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
- Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket leaks, leading to a vacuum leak and decreased engine performance.
- Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
3.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-6
- Turbocharger Bearing Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger bearing fails, causing a loss of boost and reduced engine power.
- Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
2.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-4
- Timing Belt Tensioner Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: The timing belt tensioner fails, which can lead to a broken timing belt and catastrophic engine failure.
- Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
2.5-liter Turbocharged Inline-5
- No Issues Found
Transmission
6-speed Automatic Transmission
- Transmission Fluid Leak:
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission fluid leaks, causing a loss of fluid and reduced transmission performance.
- Solution: Replace the leaking seals or components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6-speed Manual Transmission
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Front Suspension Strut Mount Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: The front suspension strut mount fails, causing a clunking noise and reduced handling.
- Solution: Replace the strut mount.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Suspension Spring Sagging:
- Description/Symptoms: The rear suspension springs sag over time, resulting in a lower ride height and decreased handling.
- Solution: Replace the springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails, causing a loss of electrical power and a dead battery.
- Solution: Replace the alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain:
- Description/Symptoms: A parasitic drain causes the battery to discharge prematurely, leading to starting problems.
- Solution: Identify and fix the source of the drain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Windshield Washer Reservoir Crack:
- Description/Symptoms: The windshield washer reservoir cracks, causing leakage of washer fluid.
- Solution: Replace the reservoir.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Headlight Condensation:
- Description/Symptoms: Condensation forms inside the headlights, reducing visibility in certain conditions.
- Solution: Replace the headlights (if under warranty) or use a sealant.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per headlight)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Climate Control Malfunction:
- Description/Symptoms: The climate control system fails to regulate temperature or airflow properly.
- Solution: Repair or replace the climate control module or components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Lock Actuator Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator fails, causing the door to not lock or unlock properly.
- Solution: Replace the actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
Overall, the 2012 Volvo S80 is a reliable vehicle; however, it has experienced some issues that can be expensive to repair. Engine problems, transmission fluid leaks, and suspension issues are among the most common problems reported. While these issues can be a concern, it’s important to note that they affect a relatively small number of vehicles. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues can help keep the S80 running smoothly and prevent more costly repairs in the future.