History/Description: With an eye for Scandinavian style, sensibility, and flagship luxury, the 2004 to 2006 generation of Volvo’s S80 luxury sedan offered up selection, uniqueness, and a confidence-inspiring motoring experience. Solidly built and packed with a wide range of safety features and available AWD, it stood out in terms of all-season capability and peace of mind.
Feature content in the automaker’s flagship sedan included heated seats with power adjustments and memory function, wood and leather trim, a sunroof, headlamp washers, dual-zone climate control, a Dolby ProLogic stereo system, and auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Motivation came from one of several powertrain teams, including a 2.9L straight-6 with 194 horsepower, front-drive, and an automatic transmission. A 2.5L straight 5-cylinder turbo engine with 5-speed automatic (AWD was available), creating 208 horsepower. Top-line models got 268 horsepower thanks to a turbo version of the big straight-6.
Common Issues With A Used Volvo S80: Though the S80 wasn’t a massive sales superstar, some information from owners regarding reliability is apparent in online forums.
Perhaps the most common relates to the Volvo S80’s timing belt. Seems that the regular interval to change this part, as prescribed by Volvo, is too long. The belt could “snap” ahead of its predicted useful service life, possibly causing catastrophic engine damage. Ascertain the mileage on the timing belt in the S80 you’re considering, and be sure to change it in advance of the intervals laid out in the owner’s manual.
Be sure to “feel” the automatic transmission for any signs of slippage or harsh shifting, and be sure maintenance and fluid changes related to the transmission is up to date. Owners have reported transmission issues ranging from inconsistent performance to failure -- though the limited number of complaints makes it hard to nail down the key cause.
Engine-related issues tend to centre around more minor parts, like hoses, sensors, and modules. Note any check engine lights or leaks, and have a mechanic check for signs of vacuum leaks, which could cause problems with the turbocharger or other systems.
Other checks should include the suspension system, all interior electronics, all powertrain-related electronics, and the stereo system. Finally, a mechanic should inspect the condition and integrity of the motor mounts during a pre-purchase inspection.
Due to the potentially complicated and pricey repairs a used Volvo S80 may require, buying a used model without a full going-over by a Volvo mechanic is strongly unadvised.
Feature content in the automaker’s flagship sedan included heated seats with power adjustments and memory function, wood and leather trim, a sunroof, headlamp washers, dual-zone climate control, a Dolby ProLogic stereo system, and auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Motivation came from one of several powertrain teams, including a 2.9L straight-6 with 194 horsepower, front-drive, and an automatic transmission. A 2.5L straight 5-cylinder turbo engine with 5-speed automatic (AWD was available), creating 208 horsepower. Top-line models got 268 horsepower thanks to a turbo version of the big straight-6.
 |
| Photo: Volvo |
Common Issues With A Used Volvo S80: Though the S80 wasn’t a massive sales superstar, some information from owners regarding reliability is apparent in online forums.
Perhaps the most common relates to the Volvo S80’s timing belt. Seems that the regular interval to change this part, as prescribed by Volvo, is too long. The belt could “snap” ahead of its predicted useful service life, possibly causing catastrophic engine damage. Ascertain the mileage on the timing belt in the S80 you’re considering, and be sure to change it in advance of the intervals laid out in the owner’s manual.
Be sure to “feel” the automatic transmission for any signs of slippage or harsh shifting, and be sure maintenance and fluid changes related to the transmission is up to date. Owners have reported transmission issues ranging from inconsistent performance to failure -- though the limited number of complaints makes it hard to nail down the key cause.
Engine-related issues tend to centre around more minor parts, like hoses, sensors, and modules. Note any check engine lights or leaks, and have a mechanic check for signs of vacuum leaks, which could cause problems with the turbocharger or other systems.
Other checks should include the suspension system, all interior electronics, all powertrain-related electronics, and the stereo system. Finally, a mechanic should inspect the condition and integrity of the motor mounts during a pre-purchase inspection.
 |
| Photo: Volvo |
Due to the potentially complicated and pricey repairs a used Volvo S80 may require, buying a used model without a full going-over by a Volvo mechanic is strongly unadvised.
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