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Model reliability

Volvo V70 reliability

The Volvo V70 fails its MOT about as often as most cars over 10 years old: 38.6% of 38,819 tests failed in 2023, against 39.7% on average.

6 to 10 years old
20.5% failed their MOT
Better than most
From 6,501 MOT tests of Volvo V70s this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 43% more oftenTyre condition5% vs 3.5%Fix about £90
Fails 2× as oftenSteering linkage components2.4% vs 1.1%
Over 10 years old
38.6% failed their MOT
About average
From 38,819 MOT tests of Volvo V70s this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 39% more oftenHeadlamp aim7.5% vs 5.4%Fix about £30
Fails 40% more oftenPosition lamps7.4% vs 5.3%Fix about £30
Fails 44% more oftenTyre condition5.9% vs 4.1%Fix about £90
Fails 43% more oftenDirection indicators3.3% vs 2.3%
Advised 68% more oftenSprings10.6% vs 6.3%Fix about £150
Advised 50% more oftenAnti-roll bars9% vs 6%
Advised 43% more oftenExhaust system7.6% vs 5.3%Fix about £150
Advised 2× as oftenDirection indicators5.1% vs 2.4%
Safety recalls

56 DVSA recalls for the Volvo V70

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.

R/2020/21016 Jul 2020Built 2013–2016There is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system which may result in insufficient cooling of engine components

There is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system which may result in insufficient cooling of engine components.

Fix: Add an extra degassing line (Bleeder Hose) between the cooling system radiator and the cooling system expansion tank which will evacuate the trapped air

Recalled models: V70 · 76,945 vehicles

R/2020/2058 Jul 2020Built 2012–2016There is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system

There is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system which may result in insufficient cooling of engine components.

Fix: Add an extra degassing line (Bleeder Hose) between the cooling system radiator and the cooling system expansion tank which will evacuate the trapped air.

Recalled models: V70 · 15,167 vehicles

R/2020/1921 Jul 2020Built 2007–2016Potential breakage/fatigue of a flexible steel cable supporting the front seatbelt anchor point

Potential breakage/fatigue of a flexible steel cable supporting the front seatbelt anchor point.

Fix: Replace the seat belt fastener with a new designed seat belt fastening.

Recalled models: V70 · 170,160 vehicles

R/2019/1807 Oct 2019Built 2012–2016The engine's plastic inlet manifold may melt and deform

The engines plastic inlet manifold may melt and deform

Fix: Update vehicles with improved soot reducing software cleaning of TMAP and EMAP. Fit additional hoses where necessary.

Recalled models: V70

R/2018/3774 Jan 2019Built 2015–2016Small cracks on the inside of a rubber fuel hose

Small cracks on the inside of a rubber fuel hose.

Fix: Replacement of affected fuel hoses.

Recalled models: V70 · 30,777 vehicles

R/2016/24926 Oct 2016Built 2010–2015Coolant leakage may result in a fire

It has been identified that during the engine warm-up process and under certain driving/climate conditions for instance periods of high acceleration or high engine load immediately after a cold start in cold climates there is the possibility for coolant leakage or oil seepage. This can lead to the possibility in a worst-case scenario of smoke or a slow developing fire in the engine compartment. However the driver will receive a warning message on the Driver�s Information Module indicating a low coolant level.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to modify the coolant bypass valve and install a new exhaust manifold gasket.

Recalled models: V70 · 3,192 vehicles

R/2016/02719 Feb 2016Built 2015–2016Stalling and loss of steering power assistance

Involved vehicles may have a software issue which could cause the engine to momentarily cut-out and restart while driving. This could also cause disturbances in some electrical systems such as shut down of the instrument cluster infotainment system and loss of power steering assistance.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and upgrade the software of the control units.

Recalled models: V70 · 7,237 vehicles

R/2015/25318 Jan 2016Built 2014–2015Fuel guage may not show fuel level correctly

Fuel gauge may not show correct level

Fix: The remedy is not yet available for all models. Until a remedy is available the manufacturer advises to maintain fuel level above approx one third.

Recalled models: V70 · 1,109 vehicles

R/2015/25421 Dec 2015Built 2014–2015Fuel guage may not show fuel level correctly

Fuel gauge may not show correct level

Fix: The remedy is not yet available for all models.. Until a remedy is available the manufacturer advises to maintain fuel level above approx one third.

Recalled models: V70 · 2,743 vehicles

R/2015/24916 Dec 2015Built 2014–2015Fuel guage may not show fuel level correctly

Fuel gauge may not show correct level

Fix: Dependent on affected Model update software. Until updated the manufacturer advises to maintain fuel level above approx one third.

Recalled models: V70 · 5,354 vehicles

R/2015/20423 Oct 2015Engine may fail

The crankshaft may not have been sufficiently hardened and may fail this in turn can lead to sudden and catastrophic engine failure. The failure may be preceded by loss of power and a knocking noise.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the engine.

Recalled models: V70 · 5 vehicles

R/2015/04019 Feb 2015Built 2011–2015Parking brake may unintentionally release

Vehicles with manual gearboxes and start/stop functionality have Parking Brake Module (PBM) software that may allow the parking brake to unintentionally release. The unintended release of the parking brake can only occur when the engine is running and the gearstick moved so it will happen when the vehicle is attended.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to download upgraded Parking Brake Module (PBM) software.

Recalled models: V70 · 2,146 vehicles

R/2013/14028 Nov 2013Loss of power steering assistance

The auxiliary drive belt tensioner can suffer from premature wear which may cause it to fail. This can lead to loss of steering power assistance and a slight possibility of loss of drive should the drive belt or tensioner invade the cambelt area.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the auxiliary drive belt and tensioner.

Recalled models: V70 · 3,134 vehicles

R/2012/10414 Sept 2012Reduced braking performance

Investigations have identified the wiper arm mechanism may chafe against the brake booster vacuum line. If this chafing occurs it could lead to a gradual reduction of the power assisted braking and more effort would need to be applied to the brake pedal than usual to slow the vehicle down. In a worst case the reduction of braking assistance could occur suddenly without any prior warning

Fix: Inspect the brake booster vacuum line. If it is chafed then it should be replaced and routed correctly. If the line is not chafed it should re-routed to ensure no issues going forward.

Recalled models: V70 · 3,394 vehicles

R/2012/05624 Apr 2012Engine may fail

There could be a sudden and unexpected failure of the bottom end of the engine because of a non-conformity during production of the connecting rods.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the engine.

Recalled models: V70 · 6 vehicles

R/2012/0287 Mar 2012Airbags may not deploy in a collision

It has been identified that the wiring harness for the SRS system may not have been correctly attached to the front seat frames. It is possible that continued adjustment of the seat position may cause the harness to become detached. If this should occur a warning light will illuminate on the instrument panel warning the driver of a fault with the SRS system. However in this condition the front and side airbags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a collision.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles for an inspection of the wiring harnesses and ensure that it is correctly routed and secured. If not then reroute and securing of the wiring harness.

Recalled models: V70 · 9,330 vehicles

R/2011/17523 Dec 2011Built 2007–2009Engine may loose drive and power steering assistance.

The auxiliary drive belt tensioner may fail. This can lead to loss of steering power assistance and a slight possibility of loss of drive should the drive belt or tensioner invade the cambelt area.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the auxiliary drive belt and tensioner.

Recalled models: V70 · 7,302 vehicles

R/2011/1353 Oct 2011Built 2009–2010Possibility of loss of drive

The auxiliary drive belt tensioner may fail. If the tensioner fails it would cause a loss of power steering assistance and possible loss of drive.

Fix: Replace the auxiliary drive belt tensioner.

Recalled models: V70 · 9,936 vehicles

R/2011/09420 Jul 2011Loss of power steering fluid

It is possible that the upper power steering return line may become detached which will result in the loss of power steering fluid. This will result in fluid leaking onto the road surface leaking into the engine bay and the driver experiencing heavy steering.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles for the replacement of the power steering return line.

Recalled models: V70 · 213 vehicles

R/2011/0535 May 2011Loss of power assisted steering and engine may stall.

It is possible that water can enter the electric hydraulic power assisted steering pump. This can affect the operation of the pump. The driver will receive warning in the form of warning messages and illumination of warning lights on the dashboard. However the power assistance for the steering can failure but in extreme circumstances the engine can unexpectedly stall.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the power assisted steering pump.

Recalled models: V70 · 190 vehicles

R/2011/00214 Jan 2011Engine may run on

It is possible in certain circumstances for the engine oil level to rise above the maximum level. This situation could lead to engine speed being maintained or possibly increased after the throttle pedal is released. In extreme cases the engine could continue to run after it has been switched off.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to adjust the engine oil level and carry out a software upgrade.

Recalled models: V70 · 4,787 vehicles

R/2010/2243 Dec 2010Fire may occur

On certain five cylinder engines it is possible that the high pressure fuel pipes may not have been correctly installed and may leak. This should be identified by a smell of fuel from the engine bay. However it is possible that in extreme cases an engine bay fire could occur.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the high pressure pipes.

Recalled models: V70 · 845 vehicles

R/2010/21526 Nov 2010Engine may cut out

When driving at low speeds a fault within the software calibration of the engine and transmission control modules may lead to a drop in the engine idle speed when braking or releasing the accelerator. In extreme cases this may result in the engine cutting out without warning.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to upgrade the engine/transmission software.

Recalled models: V70 · 64 vehicles

R/2010/2015 Nov 2010Engine speed may increase without warning.

It is possible that the engine oil level may rise above its maximum level due to overfilling and/or dilution by fuel. This may result in the engine speed being maintained or possibly increased after the throttle pedal has been released. In extreme cases it is possible that the engine may continue to run after it has been switched off.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and carry out an Engine Control Module software upgrade and adjust the engine oil. The new ECM upgrade will improve adaption of different blends of fuel and include a dashboard text warning message if the oil level reaches too high a level.

Recalled models: V70 · 4,430 vehicles

R/2010/16618 Oct 2010Wheel may become loose

It has been identified that the standard wheel securing bolts may not have undergone the correct hardening process. This will result in corrosion a noise and/or vibration. If this condition is not rectified there is a possibility that the wheel may become loose and detach.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the standard wheel bolts.

Recalled models: V70 · 186 vehicles

R/2010/16518 Oct 2010Airbag may not deploy as intended.

It is possible that an electrical short circuit within a connector could result in the illumination of the Airbag System Service Required message and Supplemental Restraint System warning lamp on the dashboard. Should this occur the driver's airbag would not deploy as intended if the vehicle is involved in a collision.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check and rework the connector.

Recalled models: V70 · 6,844 vehicles

R/2010/09916 Jul 2010Engine may seize

On effected petrol and diesel engines a spring clamp on the radiator hose connecting it to the water inlet pipe may be insecure. If not rectified the engine may lose coolant overheat seize and suddenly slow the vehicle rapidly to a halt.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to have the radiator hose adequately secured.

Recalled models: V70 · 326 vehicles

R/2010/07111 Jun 2010Gearbox may jam

A section of the gear shift mechanism may over time become loose and cause the mechanism to become jammed. If this was to occur it might not be possible to change gear or select neutral.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check that the ball joint for the gear selector is properly secured.

Recalled models: V70 · 6,961 vehicles

R/2010/0669 Jun 2010Loss of power steering fluid may cause a fire

A joint on the high pressure line of the power assisted steering may not have been assembled correctly. This may lead to a leakage of steering fluid into the engine bay. This could result in sudden loss of power assistance but in extreme cases it could result in a localised fire within the engine bay.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles to check and if required torque the unit up to the correct specification.

Recalled models: V70 · 260 vehicles

R/2010/05826 May 2010Engine may loose drive and power steering assistance.

The auxiliary drive belt tensioner may fail. This can lead to loss of steering power assistance and a slight possibility of loss of drive should the drive belt or tensioner invade the cambelt area.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the auxiliary drive belt and tensioner.

Recalled models: V70 · 4,673 vehicles

R/2010/05112 May 2010Engine speed may not decrease

The engine oil level may rise. This situation may lead to the engine speed being maintained or possibly increased after the throttle pedal is released. In an extreme situation the engine may continue to run after it has been switched off.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles and carry out a ECM software upgrade adjust engine oil level and install a decal to confirm oil level to the consumer.

Recalled models: V70 · 20,204 vehicles

R/2010/0331 Apr 2010Auxiliary drive belt may detach

The Auxiliary Belt Tensioner may fail resulting in loss of Power Assisted Steeering and loss of Drive

Fix: Recall affected vehicles to replace the Tensioner and Drive Belt.

Recalled models: V70 · 2,297 vehicles

R/2009/15521 Dec 2009Gearbox may not engage or shift gears as intended

It has been identified that due to internal leakage the gearbox hydraulic control module may not be able to engage or shift gears as intended.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the gearbox replaced.

Recalled models: V70 · 42 vehicles

R/2009/0882 Sept 2009Engine may stall

It has been identified thatthe fuel pump electronic module may not operate as intended. This can result in failure of the fuel pump to start. Should this occur the vehicle may suffer a non start rough running or in the worst case the engine may stall without prior warning. Investigation has shown that it may be possible to drive the vehicle for up to 100 m before the fault manifests itself.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the software within the central electronic module upgraded.

Recalled models: V70 · 254 vehicles

R/2009/07014 Jul 2009Loss of fuel pressure resulting in engine stalling without warning.

It has been identified that the fuel pump pressure regulator may detach from it's spigot within the fuel pump in conditions of high ambient temperature. Should this occur the vehicle would suffer loss of fuel pressure causing the engine to stall with no warning being given to the driver.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the fuel pump replaced.

Recalled models: V70 · 5 vehicles

R/2009/06317 Jun 2009Engine cooling fan may fail

It has been identified that due to a software issue with the engine cooling fan control module the air conditioning performance may be reduced and the engine coolant temperature may increase. This will result in warning messages being displayed. In extreme cases if the driver does not heed the warnings the engine may fail.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the cooling fan control module replaced.

Recalled models: V70 · 4,006 vehicles

R/2009/0528 May 2009Brakes may not perform adequately

Brake assistance from the vacuum pressure pump may be reduced under certain cold start conditions. The brakes will still function but more pressure on the pedal will be required than normal.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the non-return valve in the vacuum pump.

Recalled models: V70 · 2,004 vehicles

R/2009/04622 Apr 2009Wipers may not operate correctly

The wipers could function without being turned on or not at all because of a software error in the central electronic module.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to upgrade the software in the central electronic module.

Recalled models: V70 · 2,216 vehicles

R/2009/01713 Feb 2009Short circuit - fire may occur

It has been identified that on vehicles fitted with a supplementary cabin heater the unit may contain a faulty valve which links the heater to the climate control. The valve in question may become clogged which could lead to poor water drainage and in extreme cases a short circuit. Should sufficient heat be generated by the short circuit a fire behind the instrument panel below the radio may occur.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the subject valve replaced.

Recalled models: V70 · 8,255 vehicles

R/2008/08920 Jun 2008Vehicle may lose power

It has been identified that due to a problem within the engine ECU (flexi-fuel engines only) the engine torque may be reduced with the attendant possibility that limp home mode may be activated.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the engine ECU software upgraded.

Recalled models: V70 · 5 vehicles

R/2008/0757 May 2008Side airbag may not work as intended

It has been identified that the subject vehicles may have a software error within the side impact protection system (SIPS) As a result the inflatable side curtains may not operate as intended.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the SIPS system ECU software upgraded.

Recalled models: V70 · 4,875 vehicles

R/2008/06525 Apr 2008Roof rail bolts may not be to specification

It is possible that the security of the roof rack might be compromised due to incorrect mounting bolts being fitted.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the roof rack mounting bolts.

Recalled models: V70 · 784 vehicles

R/2008/05419 Mar 2008Seat belt may not been torqued correctly

One or more screws holding the outer rear seat belts may not have been torqued correctly. This could lead to the seat belt not being as affective as it could be in an accident.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to re torque the mounting bolts.

Recalled models: V70 · 7 vehicles

R/2007/18110 Dec 2007Weight information product label incorrectly

It has been identified that the product label fitted to the inside of the right hand door pillar does not contain any weight information

Fix: Affected vehicles will have a replacement label affixed.

Recalled models: V70 · 1 vehicles

R/2007/16229 Oct 2007Airbags may not deploy as intended

It has been identified that due to a software deviation within the supplementary restraint system (SRS) the inflatable curtain and side impact protection system may not deploy as intended.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the SRS software updated.

Recalled models: V70 · 2,386 vehicles

R/2007/05813 Mar 2007Fire may occur

The electric cooling fan control unit's metal cover may not have the correct corrosion protection. Should corrosion occur water may enter the control unit causing an electrical malfunction and in extreme cases cause a fire in the engine compartment.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to fit an improved fan assembly.

Recalled models: V70 · 388 vehicles

R/2004/21623 Dec 2004Electric cooling fan may overheat

Volvo have identified that due to certain climatic conditions the electric cooling fan may overheat and in extreme cases cause a fire within the engine bay.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the cooling fan assembly replaced.

Recalled models: V70 · 35,024 vehicles

R/2004/01226 Jan 2004Possible suspension collapse

The nut securing the front suspension strut lower ball joint to the control arm may loose its axial tension due to an out tolerance condition. This could adversely affect the directional control of the vehicle.

Fix: Fit a modified ball joint to control arm securing nut.

Recalled models: V70 · 9,735 vehicles

R/2004/0077 Jan 2004Possible fuel leak from injector pipes.

The fuel injector pipes may not have been fitted correctly and as a consequence could leak.

Fix: Examine all potentially affected vehicles and replace any incorrectly fitted injector pipes.

Recalled models: V70 · 287 vehicles

R/2003/1598 Oct 2003Possible fuel leak

There is a possibility of a restriction in a T - Piece in the fuel return line which could lead to a pressure build up which could blow the pipe off with resulting leakage of fuel.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace T - Piece with quality assured type.

Recalled models: V70 · 1,090 vehicles

R/2003/00810 Jan 2003Detachable 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: V70 · 1,042 vehicles

R/2002/09711 Jul 2002Detachable 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: V70 · 1,042 vehicles

R/2001/0382 Apr 2001Built 2001Child restraint anchor bracket concern

The bolts securing the child restraint anchor bracket to the rear floor at the right hand side may have been insufficiently tightened. If an ISOFIX type child restraint is fitted to this bracket it may be insecure.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles check and tighten the anchor bracket bolts where necessary.

Recalled models: V70 · 8 vehicles

R/2001/0402 Apr 2001Built 2000Child safety lock concern

Possible faulty wiring harness in the rear doors may result in the powered child safety locks not operating.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles check the child locks for effective and reliable operation and renew any faulty power supply wiring harness.

Recalled models: V70 · 519 vehicles

R/2001/0392 Apr 2001Built 2001Rear seat belt anchorage concern

Left and right hand rear outer seat belt bottom fixing bolts may have been incorrectly torqued.

Fix: Recall affected vehicle check and tighten the seat belt fixing bolts to the correct torque where necessary.

Recalled models: V70 · 410 vehicles

R/1999/07913 Oct 1999Built 1997–1998Passenger side air bag may inadvertently deploy

Possibility that passenger side air bag may be sensitive to electrostatic discharge and may inadvertently deploy.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and fit an additional grounding wire to electrical system.

Recalled models: V70 · 3,685 vehicles

DVSA vehicle safety recalls (Crown copyright, Open Government Licence).

Checking a Volvo V70 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.

Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests 2023 (Open Government Licence v3.0). Failure rates compare this model with all cars in the same age band. Fix prices are typical independent-garage estimates.
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