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Volvo · Known Issues

2021 Volvo S60 Problems: 5 Known Issues

2021 model year · 1,770+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,770+ owner reports, the 2021 Volvo S60 has 5 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Recall 25V179000 — S60 Plug-In Hybrid Battery Module Short Circuit (Do Not Charge) and S60 Seat Belt Retractor Fails to Hold a Child Restraint — FMVSS 208 Recall 21V682000. The most commonly reported issue is T5/T6 PCV Oil Trap System Failure and Oil Consumption with 780 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • S60 Electrical1
  • S60 Safety/Recalls1
  • S60 Engine2
  • S60 Transmission1
  • Recalls11
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Electrical1
  • Safety/Recalls1
  • Engine2
  • Transmission1
  • Recalls11

All 5 Known Issues

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On the 2020-2022 Volvo S60, if you own a 2020-2022 S60 Recharge plug-in hybrid, this recall applies to your car's high-voltage battery. Volvo reported that a short circuit can occur inside a battery module when the pack is at full charge and the S60 is parked. NHTSA classified the defect under Electrical System: Software, and the consequence stated is an increased risk of fire. The most important part of this campaign for an S60 owner is the interim instruction: Volvo told owners to stop charging the vehicle entirely until the repair is complete, which effectively means running the car on its gasoline engine in the meantime. The campaign covers 7,483 vehicles in total across all the Volvo plug-in hybrid models included — that total is for the whole campaign, not for the S60 alone.

How to Fix

Repairs are performed free of charge at a Volvo dealer. The dealer will inspect the high-voltage battery and replace the battery module as necessary, plus load a software update that monitors the battery going forward. Do not charge the S60 until this is done. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls, or contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552 and cite recall number R10312. Notification letters went out May 28, 2025.

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2021-2022 Volvo S60, recall 21V682000 covers 2021 and 2022 Volvo S60 sedans whose front seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early. This is a compliance recall: Volvo reported the vehicles fail to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208, "Occupant Crash Protection." The practical effect for an S60 owner is narrow but serious — the belt's child-seat locking function may release before it should, which can prevent a child restraint system from being secured properly. NHTSA's stated consequence is that an unsecured child restraint increases the risk of injury during a crash. Nothing in the recall record points to any effect on normal adult belt use; the defect is described specifically in terms of the automatic locking retractor. 19,149 vehicles are covered campaign-wide, spanning all of the Volvo models included, not the S60 by itself.

Common Symptoms

  • Automatic locking retractor releases early instead of staying locked
  • Child restraint installed with the seat belt cannot be pulled tight / does not stay secured

How to Fix

Free correction at a Volvo dealer: the dealer inspects the seat belt assemblies and replaces them as necessary. Owner letters went out October 13, 2021. Because this is a 2021-2022 car that may well have changed hands, the reliable way to know your S60's status is to run the VIN through nhtsa.gov/recalls — it will show whether 21V682000 remains open. For questions, call Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552 and cite Volvo's recall number R10111.

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
780 owners

On the 2019-2023 Volvo S60, the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system oil trap on the S60 T5 and T6 engines fails prematurely, causing excessive crankcase pressure, oil leaks, and increased oil consumption. The oil trap membrane hardens and cracks, allowing oil mist to enter the intake manifold and be burned in combustion. Failed PCV systems also cause boost leaks and rough idle. The oil trap is integrated into the valve cover on these engines, making replacement more expensive than older designs with external PCV valves. Volvo updated the oil trap design in mid-2022 production.

Common Symptoms

  • Excessive oil consumption (1 qt per 2,000-3,000 miles)
  • Rough idle and occasional misfires
  • Oil leak from valve cover area
  • Whistling noise from engine bay (boost leak through PCV)
  • Check engine light with codes P0171 (lean), P0507 (idle speed high)

How to Fix

Replace the PCV oil trap assembly, which is integrated into the valve cover on these engines (Volvo part 31338685 for oil trap, or 31375560 for complete updated valve cover assembly). Clean intake manifold of oil deposits. Replace spark plugs if fouled. Use Volvo-approved 0W-20 oil and shorten oil change intervals to 5,000 miles. Updated oil trap design from mid-2022+ should be used as replacement part.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine Volvo 32140004 Drive-E four-cylinder oil trap

    replace a diagnosed failed crankcase oil-trap assembly Fitment/availability: Applicable non-mild-hybrid Volvo Drive-E four-cylinder S60 gasoline and plug-in-hybrid branches; confirm VIN, engine code and installed part number, and do not …

    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:$400 - $1,200

Research This Issue

Based on 780 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence780 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
430 owners

On the 2019-2022 Volvo S60 T6 Twin-Charged, the T6 twin-charged (supercharger + turbocharger) engine in the S60 has two common issues: the supercharger drive belt wears prematurely and the turbocharger oil feed line develops leaks. The supercharger belt drives the Roots-type supercharger for low-RPM boost and begins squealing or slipping around 50,000-70,000 miles. The turbo oil line banjo bolt connections leak due to copper washer degradation from heat cycling, causing oil to drip on the exhaust and create a burning smell. Both issues accelerate if the engine is frequently operated at high loads.

Common Symptoms

  • Squealing noise from engine bay at low RPM under load
  • Reduced low-end power and boost
  • Burning oil smell after driving
  • Oil drips on exhaust manifold heat shield
  • Supercharger whine changes pitch or becomes irregular

How to Fix

Replace supercharger drive belt (Volvo part 31480211) every 60,000 miles as preventive maintenance. Inspect and replace turbo oil feed line copper crush washers. Clean oil residue from exhaust components. If supercharger belt has been slipping for extended periods, inspect supercharger clutch for damage. Turbo oil line replacement with updated design (Volvo part 31430954) if line is cracked.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $2,500

Research This Issue

Based on 430 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence430 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
560 owners

On the 2019-2023 Volvo S60, the Aisin Warner 8-speed automatic in the S60 T5 and T6 exhibits delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse, and hesitation during low-speed maneuvers. Owners report a 1-2 second delay before the car moves after selecting Drive, and jerky behavior in parking lots. The issue is linked to TCM software calibration that prioritizes fuel economy over responsiveness, and torque converter clutch engagement logic. Cold weather amplifies the delay. Volvo has released multiple TCM software updates.

Common Symptoms

  • 1-2 second delay when shifting from Park to Drive
  • Hesitation when pulling away from stops
  • Jerky low-speed behavior in parking lots
  • Harsh downshift when requesting sudden acceleration
  • Clunk when shifting into Reverse

How to Fix

Visit dealer for latest TCM software update (addresses shift engagement timing). Perform adaptive reset of transmission learning by disconnecting the battery for 30 minutes. Transmission fluid drain and refill with Volvo-approved ATF. If delay persists, valve body inspection and possible replacement may be needed. Use Dynamic drive mode in cold weather for quicker shift response.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine Volvo 31256775 four-liter JWS 3324/AW-1 automatic-transmission fluid

    correct fluid for a diagnosed serviceable TG-81 transmission branch, followed by proper level, fluid-counter and adaptation procedures Fitment/availability: Applicable 2019 Volvo S60 T5/T6/T8 TG-81SC and other VIN-confirmed JWS 3324/AW-1…

    IPD USA

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:$0 - $3,000

Research This Issue

Based on 560 owner reports

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence560 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
NHTSA Recalls11 recalls

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 XC40, XC 40 Recharge, V60CC, V90, V90CC, XC90, and 2021-2022 V60, XC60, S60 vehicles. The seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Campaign #21V68200001/09/2021

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2022-2023 S60, V60, S90L, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. An electronic control module (ECM) software error may prevent the combustion engine from starting, causing a loss of drive power.

Campaign #22V79300020/10/2022

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

Volvo Car USA, LLC. (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2019-2024 S60 vehicles. The passenger air bag may not be secured properly, which can cause the air bag to deploy improperly.

Campaign #23V780000
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Volvo S60 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,770+ owner reports, the 2021 Volvo S60 has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Recall 25V179000 — S60 Plug-In Hybrid Battery Module Short Circuit (Do Not Charge), S60 Seat Belt Retractor Fails to Hold a Child Restraint — FMVSS 208 Recall 21V682000, T5/T6 PCV Oil Trap System Failure and Oil Consumption. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Volvo S60 reliable?

The 2021 Volvo S60 has 5 known issues documented across 1,770+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Recall 25V179000 — S60 Plug-In Hybrid Battery Module Short Circuit (Do Not Charge) and S60 Seat Belt Retractor Fails to Hold a Child Restraint — FMVSS 208 Recall 21V682000. 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 $0 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2020-2022 Volvo S60 Recall 25V179000 — S60 Plug-In Hybrid Battery Module Short Circuit (Do Not Charge)?

If you own a 2020-2022 S60 Recharge plug-in hybrid, this recall applies to your car's high-voltage battery. Volvo reported that a short circuit can occur inside a battery module when the pack is at full charge and the S60 is parked. NHTSA classified the defect under Electrical Sy… Severity: high.

What is the 2021-2022 Volvo S60 S60 Seat Belt Retractor Fails to Hold a Child Restraint — FMVSS 208 Recall 21V682000?

Recall 21V682000 covers 2021 and 2022 Volvo S60 sedans whose front seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early. This is a compliance recall: Volvo reported the vehicles fail to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208, "Occupant Crash Protection." The practi… 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 sourced from 1,770+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

  • FAQ
    • 21/11/2023

    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

    Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2020-2021 S90, 2020-2022 S60, V60, XC60, XC90, and 2022 V90 plug-in hybrid vehicles. The high-voltage battery may experience a short circuit within the battery module when the battery is fully charged and the vehicle is parked.

    Campaign #25V17900024/03/2025

    SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

    Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 S60, V60, V60CC, V90CC, XC60, XC90, XC40, and C40 vehicles. A diagnostic error in the Brake Control Module 2 (BCM2) may cause a loss of Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and traction control.

    Campaign #23V01200019/01/2023

    + 6 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

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

    What is the 2019-2023 Volvo S60 T5/T6 PCV Oil Trap System Failure and Oil Consumption?

    The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system oil trap on the S60 T5 and T6 engines fails prematurely, causing excessive crankcase pressure, oil leaks, and increased oil consumption. The oil trap membrane hardens and cracks, allowing oil mist to enter the intake manifold and be… Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2019-2022 Volvo S60 T6 Twin-Charged Engine Supercharger Drive Belt and Turbo Oil Line Leak?

    The T6 twin-charged (supercharger + turbocharger) engine in the S60 has two common issues: the supercharger drive belt wears prematurely and the turbocharger oil feed line develops leaks. The supercharger belt drives the Roots-type supercharger for low-RPM boost and begins squeal… Repairs typically run $200-$2,500. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2019-2023 Volvo S60 8-Speed Automatic Delayed Engagement and Hesitation?

    The Aisin Warner 8-speed automatic in the S60 T5 and T6 exhibits delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse, and hesitation during low-speed maneuvers. Owners report a 1-2 second delay before the car moves after selecting Drive, and jerky behavior in parking l… Repairs typically run $0-$3,000. Severity: low.