2000-2016 Volvo S80 Problems: 11 Issues Every Owner Should Know

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

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,985+ owner reports, the 2000-2016 Volvo S80 has 11 documented known issues, with 7 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) and Driver Airbag Inflator Rupture Risk. 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, repair costs range from $250 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 11 Known Issues

Community Reported

780 owners

On the 2007-2016 Volvo S80, 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.

This issue also affects: Audi A3, Audi A6, Audi A8

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 Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 780+ owners who fixed this issue

Tip
Tip
UpgradeHigh-quality synthetic oil helps reduce consumption and protect worn engines (Mobil 1 Extended Performance Full Synthetic Motor Oil)
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UpgradePremium oil filter ensures proper filtration with high-mileage engines (Wix Oil Filter)
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Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $4,000

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High Confidence780 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

179 owners

On the 2000 Volvo S80, 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.

This issue also affects: Volvo V70, Volvo XC40, Volvo XC70

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 Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 179+ owners who fixed this issue

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.
UpgradeA quality remanufactured or updated electronic throttle body can restore stable idle and throttle response when the original unit wears internally. (Bosch Electronic Throttle Body)
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TipAfter throttle body replacement, make sure throttle adaptation/software initialization is performed or drivability issues may remain.

Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,200

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Community Reported

115 owners

On the 2000 Volvo S80, 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.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 115+ owners who fixed this issue

TipIf you smell burning plastic or see smoke from the grille/hood area, shut the car off immediately and do not continue driving.
UpgradeA complete fan assembly is usually preferable to piecemeal repair when the motor has overheated. (Denso Radiator Cooling Fan Assembly)
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TipCheck recall history first, since some vehicles were covered for this exact failure mode.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,100

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Community Reported

71 owners

On the 2000-2005 Volvo S80, 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.

This issue also affects: Ford Mustang

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.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 71+ owners who fixed this issue

TipAny raw fuel smell in the cabin or around the left rear seat area should be treated as urgent; several complaints describe active leakage.
UpgradeA complete replacement fuel pump module is often the most reliable fix when the flange is cracked or the housing is fuel-soaked. (Bosch Fuel Pump Module Assembly)
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TipInspect the access cover area under the rear seat for dampness or staining before driving long distances.

Typical repair cost:$450 - $1,000

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Community Reported

55 owners

On the 2000-2004 Volvo S80, 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.

This issue also affects: Toyota RAV4, Volvo V70

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.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 55+ owners who fixed this issue

TipAny front-end clunk, wandering, or sudden change in steering feel should prompt immediate suspension inspection because complaints include wheel collapse.
UpgradeComplete control arm assemblies simplify repair and renew the ball joint and bushings together. (Moog Front Control Arm Assembly)
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TipReplace hardware to spec and perform a full alignment after control arm or ball joint work.

Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,400

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On the 2000 Volvo S80, 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.

This issue also affects: Ford Bronco, Ford Freestyle, Infiniti M56

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 Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 35+ owners who fixed this issue

TipIf steering suddenly gets heavy or noisy, check fluid level immediately and avoid highway driving until leaks are found.
UpgradeReplacing aged pressure or return hoses can prevent repeat fluid loss when the pump itself is still serviceable. (Gates Power Steering Hose)
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UpgradeA replacement pump is often needed when the system has run dry and the pump begins whining or binding. (Bosch Power Steering Pump)
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Typical repair cost:$250 - $1,200

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On the 2001-2006 Volvo S80, 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.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

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.

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Community Reported

1,100 owners

On the 2007-2016 Volvo S80, 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.

This issue also affects: Saturn Vue, Acura MDX, Audi A4 Avant

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 Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 1,100+ owners who fixed this issue

Tip
Tip
Tip
UpgradeTransmission flush kit for complete fluid exchange to address shudder (Liqui Moly Transmission Flush Kit)
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UpgradeFull synthetic ATF designed to reduce shudder in automatic transmissions (Valvoline MaxLife ATF Full Synthetic)
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Typical repair cost:$300 - $5,000

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On the 2007-2016 Volvo S80, 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.

This issue also affects: Volkswagen Phaeton, Volvo C70, Volvo V60

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 Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeTransmission flush kit for complete fluid exchange to address shudder (Liqui Moly Transmission Flush Kit)
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UpgradeFull synthetic ATF designed to reduce shudder in automatic transmissions (Valvoline MaxLife ATF Full Synthetic)
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Typical repair cost:$0 - $2,000

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650 owners

On the 2007-2016 Volvo S80, 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.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 650+ owners who fixed this issue

Tip
Tip
UpgradeRemanufactured brake caliper for reliable clamping force (Cardone Remanufactured Brake Caliper)
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UpgradeBrake caliper bracket and hardware for smooth caliper slide operation (Dorman Brake Caliper Bracket)
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UpgradeSynthetic brake caliper grease to prevent future seizing (Permatex Ultra Disc Brake Caliper Lube)
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Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,800

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On the 2007-2016 Volvo S80, 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.

This issue also affects: Volvo V40

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.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeRemanufactured brake caliper for reliable clamping force (Cardone Remanufactured Brake Caliper)
View on Amazon
UpgradeBrake caliper bracket and hardware for smooth caliper slide operation (Dorman Brake Caliper Bracket)
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UpgradeSynthetic brake caliper grease to prevent future seizing (Permatex Ultra Disc Brake Caliper Lube)
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Typical repair cost:$300 - $800

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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 11 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, 7 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Volvo S80 reliable?

The 2000-2016 Volvo S80 has 11 known issues documented across 2,985+ owner reports. 7 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. 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 11 documented issues documented across 2,985+ owner reports.

All 11 Known Issues

2007-2016 Volvo S80: T6 3.0L Twin-Scroll Turbo Failure and Oil Leaks#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2000 Volvo S80: Electronic Throttle Module Failure Causing Limp Mode, Stalling, and Surging#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2000 Volvo S80: Cooling Fan Motor Overheating and Underhood Fire Risk#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2000-2005 Volvo S80: Fuel Pump Flange Cracking and Fuel Leaks#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2000-2004 Volvo S80: Front Upper Ball Joint and Control Arm Separation#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2000 Volvo S80: Power Steering Fluid Loss and Sudden Loss of Assist#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2001-2006 Volvo S80: Driver Airbag Inflator Rupture Risk#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2007-2016 Volvo S80: Aisin TF-80SC 6-Speed Transmission Shudder and Valve Body Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2007-2016 Volvo S80: Aisin Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifting#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2007-2016 Volvo S80: Electronic Parking Brake Motor and Module Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2007-2016 Volvo S80: Rear Brake Caliper and Parking Brake Seizing#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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Other Volvo Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Volvo S80 problems?

Is the Volvo S80 reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Volvo S80 problems?

What year Volvo S80 is the most reliable?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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