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Volvo · Known Issues

2009 Volvo S60 Problems: 6 Known Issues

2009 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2009 Volvo S60 has 6 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Rear Shock Tower and Trunk Floor Corrosion ($500-$2,500 repair) and AW55-50SN 5-Speed Automatic Transmission and TCM Failure ($900-$4,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • S60 Body/Panels1
  • S60 Transmission1
  • S60 Electrical2
  • S60 Cooling1
  • S60 Engine1
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Body/Panels1
  • Transmission1
  • Electrical2
  • Cooling1
  • Engine1
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

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On the 2001-2009 Volvo S60, first-generation S60 models are prone to severe rust in the rear shock tower mounting points and trunk floor, particularly in salt-belt regions. Water intrusion through deteriorated trunk seals and blocked drain holes accelerates the corrosion. In advanced cases, the shock tower can punch through the floor, compromising structural integrity and making the car unsafe.

Common Symptoms

  • Visible rust in trunk floor or wheel wells
  • Clunking from rear suspension
  • Wet trunk or spare tire well
  • Rear shock mount feels loose
  • Failed state safety inspection

How to Fix

Inspect rear shock towers annually, especially in northern climates. Early-stage corrosion can be treated with rust converter and undercoating. Moderate damage requires cutting out affected metal and welding in repair panels. Severely compromised shock towers may be uneconomical to repair. Keep trunk drain holes clear and replace deteriorated weather seals proactively.

Typical repair cost:$500 - $2,500

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2001-2009 Volvo S60, p2-generation S60s use the Aisin-Warner AW55-50SN 5-speed automatic. Two related failures dominate owner reports: the transmission control module (TCM), which is mounted inside the transmission case and bathed in hot ATF, develops cracked solder joints and internal failures, and the transmission's clutch packs and valve body wear prematurely because Volvo originally specified the fluid as 'lifetime fill'. Symptoms usually begin as harsh or delayed 1-2 and 2-3 shifts, then progress to flare-ups, limp-home mode (locked in 3rd gear), and eventually loss of forward or reverse. Owners on CarComplaints report 'Transmission/TCU Failure' and 'Lost Forward And Reverse' on early cars, and NHTSA has 16+ automatic-transmission complaints on the 2001 alone.

Common Symptoms

  • Harsh or delayed upshifts, especially 1-2 and 2-3
  • Transmission stuck in one gear (limp-home mode)
  • Loss of forward and reverse engagement
  • Flaring / RPM surge between shifts
  • Check engine light with transmission codes
  • Burnt-smelling, dark transmission fluid

How to Fix

Diagnose first: many cars respond to a TCM software update plus a full drain-and-fill (not a flush) with Volvo JWS 3309 / Toyota T-IV fluid, repeated 2-3 times, and replacement of the transmission fluid filter and pan gasket. Volvo also issued updated shift-adaptation software for the AW55-50SN. If the TCM itself has failed, it can often be rebuilt/resoldered by a specialist far cheaper than a dealer unit, but the replacement module must be programmed to the car. Once clutch material is in the fluid or the car has lost drive, a rebuilt or remanufactured transmission with an updated valve body is the only durable fix. Preventively, change the fluid every 40-50k miles regardless of the 'lifetime' claim.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Aisin 1161540KT2 AW50/AW55 JWS 3309 transmission service kit

    supply the exact JWS 3309 fluid branch for a diagnosed, still-serviceable AW55 transmission Fitment/availability: 2001-2009 Volvo S60 only after confirming the installed Aisin AW55-50SN/AW55-51 transmission; kit supplies one JWS 3309 dra…

    FCP Euro
  • Genuine Volvo 1161540 JWS 3309 automatic transmission fluid, 1 liter

    genuine-fluid alternative for the exact JWS 3309 specification named in How to Fix Fitment/availability: AW55-equipped 2001-2009 Volvo S60; order the quantity required for the planned drain-and-fill sequence and confirm transmission iden…

    FCP Euro

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$900 - $4,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2001-2009 Volvo S60, the Volvo S60 P2 platform has the Rear Electronic Module (REM) located in the trunk area where it is susceptible to water intrusion from trunk seal leaks or condensation. Water damage causes intermittent electrical failures in rear lighting, fuel pump, and other circuits.

Common Symptoms

  • Intermittent rear light failures
  • Fuel pump relay issues
  • Trunk light not working
  • Random electrical faults
  • BCM error codes

How to Fix

Inspect the trunk for water entry first, especially the trunk lid weatherstrip, tail lamp seals, body vent seals, and any signs of condensation or standing water around the left rear electronics area where the REM is mounted. Remove the trim, disconnect the battery, unplug the REM, and check for corrosion at the module pins and harness connectors; minor corrosion can sometimes be cleaned and dried with electrical contact cleaner, but a water-damaged REM usually requires replacement and VIDA software configuration/programming to restore proper rear lighting and fuel pump control. Repair the leak before installing the replacement module or the failure will return, and verify operation of rear lamps, trunk light, and fuel pump circuits after reassembly. Typical cost is about $150-$400 for leak diagnosis and sealing, plus $300-$800 for a REM and programming depending on whether a new OEM module or used unit with matching software support is used.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $800

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2001-2009 Volvo S60, the P2 S60's instrument cluster is a self-contained module (DIM) that sits on the CAN bus. Thermal cycling in the dash cracks the solder joints where the cluster's connector pins and internal components attach to the circuit board. The result is intermittent, then permanent, cluster dropout: gauges swing to zero, the odometer/trip display goes dark, and a cascade of warning lights appears because other modules lose their bus partner. Owners describe the dash 'stopping while driving' and warning lights flickering on and off. Because the DIM also gates the immobilizer handshake on some cars, a fully failed cluster can leave the vehicle a no-start.

Common Symptoms

  • Instrument cluster goes completely blank while driving
  • Gauges drop to zero then return intermittently
  • Multiple warning lights on and off with no matching fault
  • Odometer / trip computer display dark or garbled
  • Intermittent no-start with dead dash

How to Fix

The real fix is not a new cluster: the DIM is VIN-coded and a new unit must be programmed by a dealer with the correct mileage. The standard repair is to remove the cluster and have the board reflowed/resoldered by a cluster rebuild specialist, which retains the original mileage and coding. Before pulling the cluster, verify battery terminals, the main ground straps, and the CEM connectors, since corroded grounds produce identical symptoms. Repair the connectors and pins as well; simply reseating the cluster often restores it temporarily, which confirms the joint diagnosis.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $900

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2001-2009 Volvo S60, the plastic thermostat housing on P2-platform S60 turbo models (T5 and 2.4T) is prone to cracking and leaking coolant, especially as the housing ages and becomes brittle from heat cycling. The leak typically starts as a slow seep around the housing gasket or where the housing meets the cylinder head, and can progress to a significant coolant loss if not addressed.

Common Symptoms

  • Coolant smell from engine bay
  • Low coolant warning light
  • Visible coolant drip on front of engine
  • Slow coolant level drop
  • Overheating in severe cases

How to Fix

Replace the thermostat housing with an updated design. Many owners opt for an aluminum aftermarket housing (e.g., from do88 or Genuine Volvo updated part) to prevent recurrence. Replace the thermostat, gasket, and coolant hose O-rings at the same time. Refill with Volvo-spec coolant and bleed the system thoroughly.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
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On the 2001-2009 Volvo S60, the upper engine torque mount on P2-platform S60 models is a common wear item that fails between 60,000-100,000 miles. The hydraulic-filled mount splits and leaks fluid, causing excessive engine movement during acceleration and deceleration. This leads to harsh shifting feel, drivetrain vibrations, and clunking noises that can be mistaken for transmission problems.

Common Symptoms

  • Clunk when shifting from park to drive/reverse
  • Excessive engine rocking on acceleration
  • Vibration at idle felt through steering wheel
  • Harsh or jerky gear changes
  • Visible fluid leak from top of engine mount

How to Fix

Replace the upper engine torque mount. OEM Volvo or high-quality aftermarket mounts (Lemforder, Hutchinson) are recommended. The job requires removing the engine cover and cross-brace for access. Takes about 1-2 hours. Many owners replace the lower engine mount and transmission mount at the same time for a complete refresh.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Hutchinson 30680770 Volvo upper engine torque mount

    replace a visually confirmed torn or separated upper torque mount Fitment/availability: OE-supplier upper torque-mount branch cataloged for Volvo S60 P2 applications; confirm VIN, engine and installed revision before purchase Fitment/ava…

    FCP Euro

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $400

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls5 recalls

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2001-2006 S80 and 2001-2009 S60 vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

Campaign #21V76600030/09/2021

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH GARMIN 760 PORTABLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) UNITS BECAUSE THE BATTERIES ON THOSE UNITS MAY OVERHEAT.

Campaign #10V56600008/11/2010

SEATS

VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH POWER FRONT PASSENGER SEATS. THE FRONT SEAT RAIL'S DETECTION SYSTEM WAS MANUFACTURED INCORRECTLY AND MAY PERMIT THE PASSENGER TO FORWARD THE SEAT BEYOND THE INTENDED MAXIMUM.

Campaign #10V59100022/11/2010
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Volvo S60 problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2009 Volvo S60 has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Rear Shock Tower and Trunk Floor Corrosion, AW55-50SN 5-Speed Automatic Transmission and TCM Failure, Thermostat Housing Coolant Leak (Turbo 5-Cylinder). Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Volvo S60 reliable?

The 2009 Volvo S60 has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Rear Shock Tower and Trunk Floor Corrosion and AW55-50SN 5-Speed Automatic Transmission and TCM Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Volvo S60 problems?

Repair costs for known Volvo S60 issues range from $150 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Rear Shock Tower and Trunk Floor Corrosion, typically costs $500-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2001-2009 Volvo S60 Rear Shock Tower and Trunk Floor Corrosion?

First-generation S60 models are prone to severe rust in the rear shock tower mounting points and trunk floor, particularly in salt-belt regions. Water intrusion through deteriorated trunk seals and blocked drain holes accelerates the corrosion. In advanced cases, the shock tower… Repairs typically run $500-$2,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2001-2009 Volvo S60 AW55-50SN 5-Speed Automatic Transmission and TCM Failure?

P2-generation S60s use the Aisin-Warner AW55-50SN 5-speed automatic. Two related failures dominate owner reports: the transmission control module (TCM), which is mounted inside the transmission case and bathed in hot ATF, develops cracked solder joints and internal failures, and… Repairs typically run $900-$4,500. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER

CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.

Campaign #07E02300029/03/2007

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

CERTAIN VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THE LABEL DENOTING THE TIRE AND LOADING PRESSURE INFORMATION IS INCORRECT.

Campaign #06V37500003/10/2006

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2001-2009 Volvo S60 Thermostat Housing Coolant Leak (Turbo 5-Cylinder)?

The plastic thermostat housing on P2-platform S60 turbo models (T5 and 2.4T) is prone to cracking and leaking coolant, especially as the housing ages and becomes brittle from heat cycling. The leak typically starts as a slow seep around the housing gasket or where the housing mee… Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2001-2009 Volvo S60 Rear Electronic Module (REM) Water Damage?

The Volvo S60 P2 platform has the Rear Electronic Module (REM) located in the trunk area where it is susceptible to water intrusion from trunk seal leaks or condensation. Water damage causes intermittent electrical failures in rear lighting, fuel pump, and other circuits. Repairs typically run $200-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2001-2009 Volvo S60 DIM (Driver Information Module) Instrument Cluster Solder Joint Failure?

The P2 S60's instrument cluster is a self-contained module (DIM) that sits on the CAN bus. Thermal cycling in the dash cracks the solder joints where the cluster's connector pins and internal components attach to the circuit board. The result is intermittent, then permanent, clus… Repairs typically run $250-$900. Severity: medium.

What is the 2001-2009 Volvo S60 Upper Engine Mount (Torque Rod) Failure?

The upper engine torque mount on P2-platform S60 models is a common wear item that fails between 60,000-100,000 miles. The hydraulic-filled mount splits and leaks fluid, causing excessive engine movement during acceleration and deceleration. This leads to harsh shifting feel, dri… Repairs typically run $150-$400. Severity: medium.