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Volvo · Known Issues

2000-2016 Volvo S80 Problems: 13 Known Issues

2000-2016 model years · 2,985+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,985+ owner reports, the 2000-2016 Volvo S80 has 13 documented known issues, with 9 rated critical. The most serious are T6 3.0L Twin-Scroll Turbo Failure and Oil Leaks ($1,500-$4,000 repair), Electronic Throttle Module Failure Causing Limp Mode, Stalling, and Surging ($500-$1,200 repair), Cooling Fan Motor Overheating and Underhood Fire Risk ($400-$1,100 repair), Fuel Pump Flange Cracking and Fuel Leaks ($450-$1,000 repair), Front Upper Ball Joint and Control Arm Separation ($500-$1,400 repair), Power Steering Fluid Loss and Sudden Loss of Assist ($250-$1,200 repair), Driver Airbag Inflator Rupture Risk, Recall 20V378000: Front Seat Belt Anchor Cable Fatigue and CEM Software Fault Prevents Fuel Pump Activation and Causes Stalling (Recall 09V343000). The most commonly reported issue is Aisin TF-80SC 6-Speed Transmission Shudder and Valve Body Failure with 1,100 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $250 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • S80 Engine2
  • S80 Safety/Recalls2
  • S80 Cooling1
  • S80 Fuel System1
  • S80 Suspension1
  • S80 Steering1
  • S80 Electrical1
  • S80 Transmission2
  • S80 Brakes2
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ
Get Started
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In This Article

  • Engine2
  • Safety/Recalls2
  • Cooling1
  • Fuel System1
  • Suspension1
  • Steering1
  • Electrical1
  • Transmission2
  • Brakes2
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ

All 13 Known Issues

NHTSA Recalls6 recalls

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS

Volvo Cars of North America, LLC. (Volvo) is recalling certain model year 2016 Volvo S60, V60, V60CC, XC60, XC70, and S80 vehicles manufactured April 8, 2015 to August 19, 2015. In certain driving conditions when using the automatic engine stop/start function, the starter motor fuse may blow, preventing the car from restarting when necessary.

Campaign #15V55500002/09/2015

SEAT BELTS:FRONT

Volvo Cars of N.A., LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2008-2016 V70 and XC70, 2007-2016 S80, 2011-2018 S60 and V60, 2016-2018 S60 Cross Country, 2014-2020 S60L, 2009-2015 S80L, 2009-2016 XC60 and 2015-2018 V60 Cross Country vehicles. The flexible steel cable that connects the seat belt to the front outboard seating positions may fatigue over time, causing the seat belt to not secure the occupant in the event of a crash.

Campaign #20V37800030/06/2020

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Volvo is recalling certain model year 2014 S60, S80, XC60 and XC70 vehicles equipped with keyless ignition. In the affected vehicles, the Central Electronic Module (CEM) will not perform as intended. As a result, the front windshield wipers might run continuously when the ignition is on. Also, the turn signals, high beams, and headlight switch might not work.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Volvo S80 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,985+ owner reports, the 2000-2016 Volvo S80 has 13 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: T6 3.0L Twin-Scroll Turbo Failure and Oil Leaks, Electronic Throttle Module Failure Causing Limp Mode, Stalling, and Surging, Cooling Fan Motor Overheating and Underhood Fire Risk. Of these, 9 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Volvo S80 reliable?

The 2000-2016 Volvo S80 has 13 known issues documented across 2,985+ owner reports. 9 issues are rated critical: T6 3.0L Twin-Scroll Turbo Failure and Oil Leaks and Electronic Throttle Module Failure Causing Limp Mode, Stalling, and Surging and Cooling Fan Motor Overheating and Underhood Fire Risk and Fuel Pump Flange Cracking and Fuel Leaks and Front Upper Ball Joint and Control Arm Separation and Power Steering Fluid Loss and Sudden Loss of Assist and Driver Airbag Inflator Rupture Risk and Recall 20V378000: Front Seat Belt Anchor Cable Fatigue and CEM Software Fault Prevents Fuel Pump Activation and Causes Stalling (Recall 09V343000). 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 S80 problems?

Repair costs for known Volvo S80 issues range from $0 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, T6 3.0L Twin-Scroll Turbo Failure and Oil Leaks, typically costs $1,500-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Volvo S80 is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Volvo S80. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2000-2016 Volvo S80 with 13 documented issues documented across 2,985+ owner reports.

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 2,985+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Filter:
ALL YEARS20162015201420132012201120102009200820072006200520042003200220012000
Community reported
780 owners

The 3.0L inline-6 T6 engine (B6304T2/T4) in the S80 uses a BorgWarner BV50 twin-scroll turbocharger that develops oil leaks and bearing failure, typically after 80,000-120,000 miles. The turbo oil feed line develops cracks and the banjo bolt copper washers harden, restricting oil flow to the turbo bearing. The turbo also suffers from oil coking due to high underhood temperatures. The S80 T6 shares this engine with the XC60, XC70, and XC90 of the same era. The turbo failure often coincides with PCV system degradation, which creates a cascading failure pattern.

Common Symptoms

  • Blue smoke from exhaust on acceleration
  • Oil consumption increasing progressively
  • Turbo whine or grinding noise
  • Burning oil smell from engine bay
  • Loss of power and boost
  • Check engine light with turbo-related codes

How to Fix

Replace turbocharger (BorgWarner BV50, Volvo part 36012488). Replace oil feed line and return line with new units. Replace banjo bolt copper crush washers. Address PCV system simultaneously (part 31338685 oil trap). Clean or replace intercooler to remove oil residue. Use quality 5W-30 synthetic oil and change every 5,000-7,500 miles. Let engine idle before shutdown after highway driving.

What you need to fix it

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

  • BorgWarner 36012431 Volvo B6304T2/T4/T5 turbocharger

    replace a measured, internally failed turbo after boost-control, leak, oil-supply and crankcase-pressure causes are checked Fitment/availability: VIN-confirmed Volvo S80 T6 using the B6304T2/B6304T4/B6304T5 BorgWarner 36012431 branch; va…

    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:$1,500 - $4,000

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
179 owners

A major complaint pattern on early S80 models involves failure of the electronic throttle system, especially 2000 cars. Owners report sudden loss of power, limp-home operation, unstable idle, hesitation from a stop, and intermittent stalling in traffic or at highway speed. This is directly supported by a large volume of vehicle speed control and engine complaints and by Volvo recall campaign 06V441000.

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden loss of acceleration or limp mode
  • Stalling at stop lights or low RPM
  • Surging or high idle at low speed
  • Vehicle decelerates and will not respond to throttle input
  • Check engine or warning lamp illuminated

How to Fix

Diagnosis typically includes scanning for throttle-related faults, checking throttle adaptation, and inspecting the electronic throttle module and throttle housing for contamination or wear. The lasting repair is usually replacement of the ETM/throttle body assembly and software update/relearn; cleaning alone may only provide temporary relief. Typical repair cost runs about $500-$1,200 depending on whether an updated/remanufactured unit and dealer software are required.

What you need to fix it

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

  • XeMODeX VO.1020 pre-programmed contactless Volvo electronic throttle module

    replace a scan-data-confirmed internal throttle-position sensor failure with a contactless pre-programmed unit Fitment/availability: 1999-2001 Volvo S80 turbo and non-turbo Magneti Marelli ETM branch; VIN and original-module details are …

    XeMODeX 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.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipIf the car intermittently loses throttle response or enters limp mode, stop driving until the ETM is diagnosed because many complaints describe dangerous power loss in traffic.
  • TipAfter throttle body replacement, make sure throttle adaptation/software initialization is performed or drivability issues may remain.
Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,200

Research This Issue

Based on 179 owner reports

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NHTSA Verified
High Confidence179 owner reports

For 2001-2006 S80 models, Volvo issued recalls for the driver frontal airbag inflator due to propellant degradation over time. In a crash, the inflator can rupture during deployment and send metal fragments toward occupants, creating a severe injury risk. This is a recall-driven safety issue rather than a complaint-heavy wear item, but it is a documented known problem for the platform.

Common Symptoms

  • No warning symptoms before failure
  • Safety recall notice for driver airbag inflator
  • Risk occurs during crash airbag deployment

How to Fix

Verify recall completion by VIN and have the driver airbag inflator module replaced if still open. This repair is performed under recall at no charge by Volvo dealers. Owners should not delay because the risk exists during airbag deployment in a crash.

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Call to confirm they service Volvo vehicles and check your VIN, recall eligibility, parts availability, and appointment options.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipRun the VIN through Volvo or NHTSA recall lookup and schedule the inflator replacement immediately if open.
  • TipDo not ignore this recall even if the airbag warning light is off; the defect is age-related and may not trigger a fault code.

Research This Issue

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NHTSA Verified
High Confidence

Volvo recalled 2007-2016 S80 sedans under NHTSA campaign 20V378000 because the flexible steel cable that attaches the seat belt to the front outboard seating positions can fatigue over time. On an affected S80, that cable is what ties the driver's or front passenger's belt to the car, so if it fails the belt may not restrain the occupant in a crash. NHTSA lists 308,260 units for the campaign as a whole, which spans several Volvo model lines, not the S80 alone. Volvo's internal recall number is R10029 and owner notification began December 10, 2020.

Common Symptoms

  • Front seat belt may fail to secure the occupant in a crash

How to Fix

Take the S80 to any Volvo dealer. The repair is free: the dealer replaces the seat belt anchor cable for both front seats. If you are unsure whether your specific car is included, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls, or call Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552 and reference recall R10029.

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
115 owners

A smaller but serious pattern involves the electric cooling fan overheating, producing smoke or flames in the engine compartment. Complaints describe smoke under the hood, visible fire, and loss of power before stopping. This aligns with recall 04V451000 covering cooling fan overheating and possible engine compartment fire.

Common Symptoms

  • Smoke from under the hood
  • Visible flames in engine compartment
  • Burning electrical smell
  • Loss of power before stopping
  • Heat damage near cooling fan area

How to Fix

Inspect the radiator cooling fan assembly, fan control module, wiring, and surrounding harness/connectors for heat damage. Repair usually requires replacement of the fan motor/shroud assembly and any damaged wiring, and owners should verify recall completion. Costs typically range from $400-$1,100 depending on collateral harness damage.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipIf you smell burning plastic or see smoke from the grille/hood area, shut the car off immediately and do not continue driving.
  • TipCheck recall history first, since some vehicles were covered for this exact failure mode.
Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,100

Research This Issue

Based on 115 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
NHTSA Verified
High Confidence115 owner reports
Community reported
71 owners

Another well-documented issue is fuel leakage from the fuel pump area, often accompanied by a strong raw-fuel smell inside the cabin and around the rear seat area. Complaints describe visible wetness or dripping fuel, sudden fuel gauge drop, and concern about fire risk. This pattern closely matches recall 09V483000 for 2001-2005 models, with many 2000 owners reporting the same failure.

Common Symptoms

  • Strong gasoline smell inside and outside the vehicle
  • Fuel leaking or dripping near rear seat/fuel tank area
  • Fuel gauge dropping unexpectedly
  • Visible moisture on fuel pump housing
  • Fire risk concerns after parking or driving

How to Fix

Inspect the fuel pump module and top flange under the rear seat access area for cracks, seepage, or staining. Repair usually requires replacement of the fuel pump flange or complete pump/sender assembly, plus a new seal and lock ring if needed. Typical cost is about $450-$1,000 depending on whether the full module is replaced.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipAny raw fuel smell in the cabin or around the left rear seat area should be treated as urgent; several complaints describe active leakage.
  • TipInspect the access cover area under the rear seat for dampness or staining before driving long distances.
Typical repair cost:$450 - $1,000

Research This Issue

Based on 71 owner reports

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NHTSA Verified
High Confidence71 owner reports
Community reported
55 owners

The S80 shows a clear pattern of front suspension failures involving looseness or separation at the upper ball joint/control arm connection. Complaints describe loud bangs, sudden steering loss, wheel collapse, and even tire detachment. This is strongly supported by recall 00V238000 and later steering linkage/control arm recall 04V029000 on affected vehicles.

Common Symptoms

  • Loud bang from front suspension
  • Sudden steering loss or pull
  • Front wheel collapse or tire detachment
  • Vehicle shaking before failure
  • Clunking or looseness in front end

How to Fix

Inspect both front upper ball joints, control arms, spindle attachment points, and related hardware for looseness, torn boots, or movement under load. The proper repair is replacement of the affected control arm/ball joint assemblies and alignment, often on both sides due to age and wear. Typical cost ranges from $500-$1,400 depending on parts quality and whether additional axle or knuckle damage occurred.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipAny front-end clunk, wandering, or sudden change in steering feel should prompt immediate suspension inspection because complaints include wheel collapse.
  • TipReplace hardware to spec and perform a full alignment after control arm or ball joint work.
Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,400

Research This Issue

Based on 55 owner reports

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NHTSA Verified
High Confidence55 owner reports

Several steering complaints describe sudden loss of power steering assist, stiff steering, fluid loss, and in some cases abrupt steering pull or lockup sensations. Some reports mention pump failure, empty fluid reservoir, or steering becoming very difficult to control at speed. While not tied to one recall campaign for all years, the complaint pattern supports a known issue with power steering hydraulic leaks or pump failure.

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden loss of power steering assist
  • Steering becomes stiff or hard to turn
  • Power steering fluid reservoir found empty
  • Bad noise from steering system
  • Vehicle pulls or becomes difficult to control

How to Fix

Inspect the power steering pump, pressure and return hoses, reservoir, rack connections, and fluid level for leaks or aeration. Repairs may involve replacing the pump, leaking hose, or rack seals, followed by system flush and refill with the correct fluid. Typical cost is about $250-$1,200 depending on whether the failure is a hose leak or full pump/rack repair.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Pentosin CHF 11S synthetic hydraulic fluid, one liter

    refill and bleed the system after the exact hydraulic leak or failed component has been repaired Fitment/availability: 2000 Volvo S80 P2 hydraulic power-steering system where the reservoir cap/manual confirms CHF11S or compatible Volvo 1…

    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.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipIf steering suddenly gets heavy or noisy, check fluid level immediately and avoid highway driving until leaks are found.
Typical repair cost:$250 - $1,200

Research This Issue

Based on 35 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
NHTSA Verified
Medium Confidence35 owner reports

Volvo recalled 2008-2010 S80 sedans because, under certain conditions, the software in the Central Electronic Module (CEM) may fail to send the signal that starts the fuel pump. Without that signal, the fuel pump electronic module (PEM) never activates the pump. Because residual pressure remains in the fuel system, an S80 owner can often still crank and start the engine normally, and in some cases drive a short distance at idle, before the engine stalls. NHTSA classified the defect under Electrical System: Software. The campaign covered 11,993 vehicles in total across all models included in the recall.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine starts normally but stalls after a short distance
  • Engine runs only briefly at idle before shutting off
  • Stalling that occurs with no prior warning

How to Fix

The repair is free at any Volvo dealer. The dealer downloads updated software to the car's Central Electronic Module (CEM) so it correctly signals the fuel pump module; no parts replacement is involved. The recall began September 30, 2009, and unrepaired used S80s can still have it done. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm whether this campaign is still open on your specific car, or call Volvo at 1-800-458-1552.

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
1,100 owners

The Aisin TF-80SC 6-speed automatic transmission in the S80 develops valve body issues and torque converter shudder, particularly between 60,000-100,000 miles. The valve body solenoids lose calibration, causing harsh shifts and delayed engagement. The torque converter lockup clutch shudders at 30-50 mph under light throttle. The transmission fluid breaks down over time (despite Volvo's 'lifetime fill' claim), accelerating internal wear. This same transmission is used across many Volvo models (S60, V70, XC60, XC70, XC90) and has a well-documented failure pattern.

Common Symptoms

  • Shudder at 30-50 mph under light throttle
  • Harsh 1-2 and 2-3 upshifts
  • Delayed engagement into Drive or Reverse
  • Transmission warning light or flashing gear indicator
  • Stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode)
  • Clunk on deceleration when torque converter unlocks

How to Fix

Perform transmission fluid drain and refill with Volvo-approved JWS 3309 ATF (3x drain-fill-drive cycles for maximum fluid exchange). If shudder persists, replace torque converter ($1,500-2,500 installed). For valve body issues, replace solenoids and separator plate ($800-1,200). In severe cases, complete transmission replacement or rebuild is needed. Preventive maintenance: change transmission fluid every 40,000-50,000 miles. Never use non-approved ATF - it will cause shifting problems.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Aisin ATF-0T4 JWS 3309 automatic-transmission fluid, one quart

    matched fluid for a diagnosed serviceable early-transmission branch, not a cure for internal failure Fitment/availability: JWS 3309 branch for an identified early compatible Aisin transmission only; confirm S80 VIN, gearbox code, chassis…

    FCP Euro
  • Genuine Volvo 31256774 JWS 3324/AW-1 fluid, one liter

    matched later-generation service fluid after exact transmission identification Fitment/availability: Gen2 TF-80SC and other Volvo Aisin AW-1/JWS 3324 branches; confirm S80 VIN, gearbox, chassis split and quantity and do not mix with JWS …

    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:$300 - $5,000

Research This Issue

Based on 1,100 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence1,100 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

The Aisin 6-speed (earlier) and 8-speed (later) automatic transmissions develop harsh shifting, particularly the 2-3 and 3-4 upshifts. Delayed downshifts and a shudder during light throttle cruising are also reported. Software calibration and fluid condition are key factors.

Common Symptoms

  • Harsh upshifts
  • Delayed downshifts
  • Shudder at cruise
  • Gear hunting on hills

How to Fix

Have the TCM software updated at the dealer. Change the transmission fluid with Volvo-spec fluid. If the shudder persists after fluid change and software update, the valve body or torque converter may need attention.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Aisin 0T4 JWS 3309 automatic-transmission fluid, one quart

    correct fluid for the JWS 3309 service branch after transmission identification Fitment/availability: VIN-confirmed earlier Volvo S80 TF-80SC branch specifying Volvo 1161540/JWS 3309; not for a JWS 3324/AW-1-filled unit Fitment/availabil…

    FCP Euro
  • Aisin ATF-0WS JWS 3324/AW-1 automatic-transmission fluid, one liter

    correct fluid for the JWS 3324/AW-1 service branch after transmission identification Fitment/availability: VIN-confirmed later Volvo S80 TF-80SC or TG-81SC branch specifying Volvo 31256774/31256775 JWS 3324/AW-1; do not mix with a JWS 33…

    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:$0 - $2,000

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence
Community reported
650 owners

The electronic parking brake (EPB) system on the S80 is prone to motor and control module failures. The EPB uses electric motors on the rear brake calipers to engage and release the parking brake. The motors can fail from water intrusion and corrosion, especially in northern climates with road salt. The EPB control module can also fail, leaving the parking brake either stuck engaged (vehicle won't move) or unable to engage (vehicle rolls freely). The system requires VIDA diagnostic software for service and calibration, making DIY brake jobs more complicated. Volvo recalled some S80 models for EPB-related issues.

Common Symptoms

  • Parking brake warning light on dashboard
  • Parking brake fails to engage or release
  • Vehicle rolls when parked on inclines
  • Grinding noise from rear brakes when EPB activates
  • EPB stuck in engaged position - vehicle won't move
  • Service required message for parking brake system

How to Fix

Diagnose with VIDA to determine if the motor or module has failed. Replace EPB motor on affected caliper (Volvo part 31262415 left, 31262416 right). If the control module has failed, replace EPB module (Volvo part 31329245). The EPB system must be calibrated with VIDA after any component replacement. For stuck-engaged EPB, the emergency manual release cable is located in the rear cargo area. Check for water intrusion in the caliper motor connections and apply dielectric grease to prevent future corrosion.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,800

Research This Issue

Based on 650 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence650 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

The rear brake calipers seize due to corrosion of the caliper pins and the integrated electric parking brake mechanism. Causes uneven rear brake wear, a burning smell, and the vehicle pulling to one side under braking. Salt belt vehicles are most affected.

Common Symptoms

  • Burning smell from rear
  • Uneven rear pad wear
  • Pulling under braking
  • Rear wheel hot after driving
  • Parking brake warning

How to Fix

Rebuild or replace the rear calipers. Clean and lubricate the caliper slide pins with silicone brake grease. Replace pads and rotors. Ensure the electric parking brake auto-adjustment is functioning properly through a scan tool procedure.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $800

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence
Campaign #13V37700021/08/2013

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 S60, XC60, S80 AND XC70 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 16, 2011, THROUGH OCTOBER 6, 2011. IN THESE VEHICLES, THE WIRE HARNESS UNDER THE FRONT SEATS MAY HAVE NOT BEEN ATTACHED PROPERLY TO THE SEAT FRAME. AS A RESULT, WHEN THE SEATS ARE MOVED TO ADJUST THE SEATING POSITION, THE WIRE HARNESS MAY GET PULLED, CAUSING IT TO DISCONNECT.

Campaign #12V07500028/02/2012

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2013 S80 VEHICLES. A SOFTWARE ERROR MAY PREVENT THE TRANSMISSION FROM DOWNSHIFTING SUCH AS SHIFTING FROM FIFTH TO FOURTH GEAR WHEN COASTING.

Campaign #12V31700006/07/2012

+ 1 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

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

get a full repair guide

What is the 2007-2016 Volvo S80 T6 3.0L Twin-Scroll Turbo Failure and Oil Leaks?

The 3.0L inline-6 T6 engine (B6304T2/T4) in the S80 uses a BorgWarner BV50 twin-scroll turbocharger that develops oil leaks and bearing failure, typically after 80,000-120,000 miles. The turbo oil feed line develops cracks and the banjo bolt copper washers harden, restricting oil… Repairs typically run $1,500-$4,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2000 Volvo S80 Electronic Throttle Module Failure Causing Limp Mode, Stalling, and Surging?

A major complaint pattern on early S80 models involves failure of the electronic throttle system, especially 2000 cars. Owners report sudden loss of power, limp-home operation, unstable idle, hesitation from a stop, and intermittent stalling in traffic or at highway speed. This i… Repairs typically run $500-$1,200. Severity: high.

What is the 2000 Volvo S80 Cooling Fan Motor Overheating and Underhood Fire Risk?

A smaller but serious pattern involves the electric cooling fan overheating, producing smoke or flames in the engine compartment. Complaints describe smoke under the hood, visible fire, and loss of power before stopping. This aligns with recall 04V451000 covering cooling fan over… Repairs typically run $400-$1,100. Severity: high.

What is the 2000-2005 Volvo S80 Fuel Pump Flange Cracking and Fuel Leaks?

Another well-documented issue is fuel leakage from the fuel pump area, often accompanied by a strong raw-fuel smell inside the cabin and around the rear seat area. Complaints describe visible wetness or dripping fuel, sudden fuel gauge drop, and concern about fire risk. This patt… Repairs typically run $450-$1,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2000-2004 Volvo S80 Front Upper Ball Joint and Control Arm Separation?

The S80 shows a clear pattern of front suspension failures involving looseness or separation at the upper ball joint/control arm connection. Complaints describe loud bangs, sudden steering loss, wheel collapse, and even tire detachment. This is strongly supported by recall 00V238… Repairs typically run $500-$1,400. Severity: high.

What is the 2000 Volvo S80 Power Steering Fluid Loss and Sudden Loss of Assist?

Several steering complaints describe sudden loss of power steering assist, stiff steering, fluid loss, and in some cases abrupt steering pull or lockup sensations. Some reports mention pump failure, empty fluid reservoir, or steering becoming very difficult to control at speed. W… Repairs typically run $250-$1,200. Severity: high.

What is the 2001-2006 Volvo S80 Driver Airbag Inflator Rupture Risk?

For 2001-2006 S80 models, Volvo issued recalls for the driver frontal airbag inflator due to propellant degradation over time. In a crash, the inflator can rupture during deployment and send metal fragments toward occupants, creating a severe injury risk. This is a recall-driven… Severity: high.

What is the 2007-2016 Volvo S80 Recall 20V378000: Front Seat Belt Anchor Cable Fatigue?

Volvo recalled 2007-2016 S80 sedans under NHTSA campaign 20V378000 because the flexible steel cable that attaches the seat belt to the front outboard seating positions can fatigue over time. On an affected S80, that cable is what ties the driver's or front passenger's belt to the… Severity: high.

What is the 2008-2010 Volvo S80 CEM Software Fault Prevents Fuel Pump Activation and Causes Stalling (Recall 09V343000)?

Volvo recalled 2008-2010 S80 sedans because, under certain conditions, the software in the Central Electronic Module (CEM) may fail to send the signal that starts the fuel pump. Without that signal, the fuel pump electronic module (PEM) never activates the pump. Because residual… Severity: high.

What is the 2007-2016 Volvo S80 Aisin TF-80SC 6-Speed Transmission Shudder and Valve Body Failure?

The Aisin TF-80SC 6-speed automatic transmission in the S80 develops valve body issues and torque converter shudder, particularly between 60,000-100,000 miles. The valve body solenoids lose calibration, causing harsh shifts and delayed engagement. The torque converter lockup clut… Repairs typically run $300-$5,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2016 Volvo S80 Electronic Parking Brake Motor and Module Failure?

The electronic parking brake (EPB) system on the S80 is prone to motor and control module failures. The EPB uses electric motors on the rear brake calipers to engage and release the parking brake. The motors can fail from water intrusion and corrosion, especially in northern clim… Repairs typically run $400-$1,800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2016 Volvo S80 Rear Brake Caliper and Parking Brake Seizing?

The rear brake calipers seize due to corrosion of the caliper pins and the integrated electric parking brake mechanism. Causes uneven rear brake wear, a burning smell, and the vehicle pulling to one side under braking. Salt belt vehicles are most affected. Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2016 Volvo S80 Aisin Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifting?

The Aisin 6-speed (earlier) and 8-speed (later) automatic transmissions develop harsh shifting, particularly the 2-3 and 3-4 upshifts. Delayed downshifts and a shudder during light throttle cruising are also reported. Software calibration and fluid condition are key factors. Repairs typically run $0-$2,000. Severity: medium.