is it true these cars have major transmission problems? Any help with what to look for would be great.
Thanks
2001 s80 thiinking of buying
Being a fresh S80 owner and going through a lot of available information (and experiencing some of the problem first hand), here is what I have found.
I heard about the transmission problems but I don't have any. May be limited to certain models/years.
Expect to see following problems:
- Clogged breather box which possibly leads to a leaking camshaft seal. Easy to fix but somewhat labor intensive.
- Failing electronic throttle module. No easy fix and the permanent one is to get a replacement with contactless sensors ($500).
- Pay special attention if the cylinder head gasket is ok
Read diagnostic codes.
That is my experience with my 1999 S80.
I heard about the transmission problems but I don't have any. May be limited to certain models/years.
Expect to see following problems:
- Clogged breather box which possibly leads to a leaking camshaft seal. Easy to fix but somewhat labor intensive.
- Failing electronic throttle module. No easy fix and the permanent one is to get a replacement with contactless sensors ($500).
- Pay special attention if the cylinder head gasket is ok
Read diagnostic codes.
That is my experience with my 1999 S80.
I have a 2000 S80 NA.
121k miles.
I believe the most important thing is to use quality fluids and perform all PM.
Don't use knockoff parts...it's not worth it. Use OEM or OEM supplier. This is an engineered piece of machinery!
My throttle module quit 5k miles ago...replaced with a XeModex unit. Excellent. When it goes, don't bother farting with it...just replace with non-contact version. $500.
Also replaced the torque mount and upper engine mount. Be sure to check these. Easy to replace. Excellent.
I tried the homegrown strut bar mod...undid it...a little too stiff for me. Also the IPD poly upper mount. Stiff.
Did the PCV service. It was trashed and throwing codes. All better now. They say using synthetic oil slows fouling of the PCV box.
Replaced all struts/shocks 15k ago. Excellent. I used an FCP kit.
I believe the transmission issues are more numerous with the turbo version...too much torque.
Dropped trans pan and replaced filter. I now flush trans once a year. Using Castrol synthetic. Excellent.
I use LiquiMoly for oil. Excellent, but expensive import. Better than Castrol or Mobil 1, IMO.
This board is an excellent source for info...refer to it often. Volvo keeps lots of stuff secret to discourage DIY.
Getting ready to replace all belts, etc. at dealer. $$$.
Also, I have not been affected by almost all of the issues that pop up in this forum.
I'm considering/researching a V8 version of this car.
Repairs can be expensive, but a DIYer has great resources such as IPD and FCP, and this forum. Lots of properly configured kits if you're DIY...lots of improvements compared to Volvo factory configurations.
Not a molecule of rust...here in New England.
A solid machine that will last if you take care of it.
One of the most comfortable vehicles I've ever been in.
Many on here may hammer me for my opinion on this, but I'm very satisfied with what I have. Maybe I'm lucky.
Get the car checked out...I would go for it if all is well.
121k miles.
I believe the most important thing is to use quality fluids and perform all PM.
Don't use knockoff parts...it's not worth it. Use OEM or OEM supplier. This is an engineered piece of machinery!
My throttle module quit 5k miles ago...replaced with a XeModex unit. Excellent. When it goes, don't bother farting with it...just replace with non-contact version. $500.
Also replaced the torque mount and upper engine mount. Be sure to check these. Easy to replace. Excellent.
I tried the homegrown strut bar mod...undid it...a little too stiff for me. Also the IPD poly upper mount. Stiff.
Did the PCV service. It was trashed and throwing codes. All better now. They say using synthetic oil slows fouling of the PCV box.
Replaced all struts/shocks 15k ago. Excellent. I used an FCP kit.
I believe the transmission issues are more numerous with the turbo version...too much torque.
Dropped trans pan and replaced filter. I now flush trans once a year. Using Castrol synthetic. Excellent.
I use LiquiMoly for oil. Excellent, but expensive import. Better than Castrol or Mobil 1, IMO.
This board is an excellent source for info...refer to it often. Volvo keeps lots of stuff secret to discourage DIY.
Getting ready to replace all belts, etc. at dealer. $$$.
Also, I have not been affected by almost all of the issues that pop up in this forum.
I'm considering/researching a V8 version of this car.
Repairs can be expensive, but a DIYer has great resources such as IPD and FCP, and this forum. Lots of properly configured kits if you're DIY...lots of improvements compared to Volvo factory configurations.
Not a molecule of rust...here in New England.
A solid machine that will last if you take care of it.
One of the most comfortable vehicles I've ever been in.
Many on here may hammer me for my opinion on this, but I'm very satisfied with what I have. Maybe I'm lucky.
Get the car checked out...I would go for it if all is well.
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kahl
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- Joined: 27 October 2012
- Year and Model: 2000V70XC
- Location: columbus ohio
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Hi Don, I have a 2000 S80 Non turbo I bought 4 years ago with mileage of 105K. I currently have 146K and have experienced no problems. IMO these cars are a cream puff or a mule turd. I looked at over 13 S80s until I found this one. The one I got was being sold by dealership Volvo mechanic who bought the car from a customer. He put in a new transmition, timing belt, water pump and did the PCV system. The car was perfect. I very much enjoy the car, but getting one of these is like playing Russian roulette. take it to an experienced Volvo mechanic and have the car completely inspected. these cars sell for peanuts and can be a great bargain if you buy it right.
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