2019 Volvo S60
2019 Volvo S60
Overview
The 2019 Volvo S60, a premium compact executive sedan, is generally regarded as a reliable vehicle, particularly known for its safety features and comfortable ride. Volvo’s commitment to quality engineering is evident in many aspects of the S60. However, like any complex machine, it is not immune to potential issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, examining common problem areas reported by owners and technicians. We will break down reliability by specific engine and transmission configurations, as well as other key vehicle systems.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged (T5)
Coolant Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible coolant puddles under the vehicle, low coolant level warning light, engine overheating.
- Solution: Inspection and replacement of leaking hoses, seals, or the water pump.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Turbocharger Issues
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, increased oil consumption, check engine light.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential replacement of the turbocharger assembly or related components.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
2.0L Supercharged & Turbocharged (T6)
Coolant Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible coolant puddles under the vehicle, low coolant level warning light, engine overheating.
- Solution: Inspection and replacement of leaking hoses, seals, or the water pump.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Timing Chain Tensioner Issues
- Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup; check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and potentially the timing chain.
- Cost: $1,000 - $2,500
2.0L Plug-in Hybrid (T8)
Hybrid Battery Cooling System
- Symptoms: Reduced electric range, hybrid system warning lights, potential overheating of battery pack.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the hybrid battery cooling system, including pumps and coolant.
- Cost: $500 - $1,500
Charging System Faults
- Symptoms: Inability to charge the battery, charging interrupted, error messages related to charging.
- Solution: Inspection and repair of the onboard charger, charging port, or related wiring.
- Cost: $400 - $1,200
Transmission
8-Speed Geartronic Automatic
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Adaptive Four-C Chassis
Adaptive Dampers Malfunction
- Symptoms: Harsh ride, clunking noises over bumps, ‘Chassis Control Service Required’ message.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty adaptive dampers.
- Cost: $800 - $1,500 per corner
Electrical
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system freezes or reboots randomly.
- Solution: Software updates or potential replacement of the infotainment control module.
- Cost: $500 - $1,500
Battery Drain
Intermittent Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Vehicle fails to start, battery dies prematurely, warning lights on dashboard.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify parasitic draw from modules or faulty battery.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Lighting Systems
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Upholstery & Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Climate Control System
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2019 Volvo S60 demonstrates a strong overall reliability record, especially considering its advanced technology and premium positioning. The powertrain, particularly the automatic transmission, is generally robust. However, owners should be aware of potential issues with the engine’s cooling system and turbocharger on the T5 and T6 variants, and specific hybrid system components on the T8. The adaptive suspension can also be a source of repair costs if dampers fail. Electrical gremlins, primarily related to the infotainment system and occasional battery drain, are also noted. Despite these points, the S60 remains a solid choice for those prioritizing safety and comfort, with most issues being repairable and not indicative of systemic failure across the model range.