Volvo 800 Series reliability
The Volvo 800 Series fails its MOT about as often as most cars over 10 years old: 37.5% of 1,954 tests failed in 2023, against 39.7% on average.
6 DVSA recalls for the Volvo 800 Series
Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.
Detachable tow bar may work loose
Under certain conditions the detachable tow bar may work loose resulting in the tow bar becoming detached from the vehicle.
Fix: Replace the tow ball and housing with a calibrated unit.
Recalled models: 800 SERIES · 1,042 vehicles
Detachable tow bar may work loose
A combination of internal and external forces caused the towball to prematurelydetach itself from the towball housing resulting in separation of the trailer from the drawing unit.
Fix: All towballs and housing will initially be modified and then replaced with calibrated units at a later date.
Recalled models: 800 SERIES · 1,042 vehicles
Possibility of throttle sticking
The throttle plate screws may not have been sufficiently torqued. This could result in sticking of the throttle.
Fix: Recall the affected vehicles for the fitment of a replacement throttle housing.
Recalled models: 800 SERIES · 795 vehicles
The seat belt catch could become detached in a collision situation
There is a possibility that the thread insert which attaches the seat belt catch to the power seat slide rail may not have been manufactured to the vehicle makers standards.
Fix: Recall all potentially affected vehicles for inspection and replacement of the thread inserts as required.
Recalled models: 800 SERIES · 41 vehicles
Vehicle jack is faulty
The jack thrust bearing washer may have a material fault which could allow the vehicle jack to fall when holding the weight of the vehicle.
Fix: A) Volvo have written to all involved customers advising them as a short term measure not to use the jack originally supplied with the vehicle. B) The original jacks are being replaced with quality assured units as soon as these become available.
Recalled models: 800 SERIES · 3,799 vehicles
Throttle mechanism may not return to idle position.
Under extreme climatic conditions eg low ambient temperature combined with high air humidity ice crystals may form in the crankcase ventilation system which includes the throttle housing. Should this condition occur ice build up may prevent the throttle from fully closing.
Fix: Recall the affected vehicles for the fitment of a modified throttle housing and a new vent hose.
Recalled models: 800 SERIES · 961 vehicles
Checking a Volvo 800 Series before you buy
Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.