1998 Volvo S70 Problems: 4 Known Issues
1998 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1998 Volvo S70 has 4 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is AW50-42 Automatic Transmission Failure ($1,500-$3,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
1998 · All trims · All engines
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All 4 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls7 recalls
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH MAY CEASE TO FUNCTION.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. OPERATION OF THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH, OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, CAN RESULT IN INCONSISTENT OPERATION OF THE SWITCH.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THERE COULD BE INADEQUATE CONTACT BETWEEN THE BULB AND SOCKET WHICH COULD CAUSE THE FRONT TURN SIGNAL NOT TO FUNCTION AS DESIGNED.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE SEDANS. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY." THE FUEL FILTER BRACKET CONFIGURATION MARGINS ARE INSUFFICIENT.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Volvo S70 problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1998 Volvo S70 has 4 documented issues. Documented issues include: AW50-42 Automatic Transmission Failure, Heater Core Leak, PCV System Clogging and Oil Leaks. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Volvo S70 reliable?
The 1998 Volvo S70 has 4 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: AW50-42 Automatic Transmission 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 S70 problems?
Repair costs for known Volvo S70 issues range from $100 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, AW50-42 Automatic Transmission Failure, typically costs $1,500-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1998-2000 Volvo S70 AW50-42 Automatic Transmission Failure?
The S70 uses the same Aisin-Warner AW50-42 electronically controlled 4-speed automatic as the Volvo 850. Common trouble spots are the valve body, the solenoids and the torque converter. Solenoids No. 1 and 2 control the shifts, No. 3 controls torque-converter lock-up and No. 4 co… Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,500. Severity: high.
What is the 1998-2000 Volvo S70 Heater Core Leak?
The heater core develops a leak causing sweet coolant smell inside the cabin, fogging windshield, and wet passenger-side carpet. The heater core sits in the heater box under the dashboard; it is reached by removing the lower dash soundproofing/kick panels rather than the whole da… Repairs typically run $500-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 1998-2000 Volvo S70 PCV System Clogging and Oil Leaks?
The Volvo S70 turbo and non-turbo 5-cylinder engines develop PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system blockage. The breather box/flame trap clogs, causing excessive crankcase pressure that pushes oil past gaskets and seals. Repairs typically run $100-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 1998-2000 Volvo S70 Power Window Regulator Sliding Pivot Failure?
The window regulators fail, allowing the window to drop into the door. The regulator arms attach to the glass through small plastic sliding pivots/clips that wear and eventually break, letting the arm slip out. Driver side is most common. Repairs typically run $150-$350. Severity: low.
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.