Problem Reports
Problem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
2001 Volvo S60 Problems
Exterior Light Bulbs May Burn Out Prematurely
It is not uncommon for the exterior light bulbs to burn out prematurely. No repair option has been reported other than replacing the failed bulb.
Transmission Shifting Issues Due to Internal Failure and/or Software Issues
The automatic transmission may develop shifting problems and/or the Check Engine Light may illuminate due to internal component failure and/or software issues. It is always best to be sure the transmission control module has the latest software installed when any major transmission repair is performed.
Front Upper Strut Mounts May Fail and Cause Noise Over Bumps
Front upper strut mounts may wear prematurely, resulting in loud noise from the front of the vehicle when going over bumps.
Knocking Noise Over Bumps Due to Worn Sway Bar Links
Front and/or rear sway bar end links may wear out prematurely, causing a knocking noise from the front or rear of the vehicle when driving on bumpy roads. Our technicians recommend inspecting the links at each service, they should be replaced if any looseness is found.
The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light May Illuminate
The anti-lock brake system (ABS) warning light and/or other dash warning lights may illuminate due to a failed ABS Control Module. Replacement of the failed module is generally required to correct this concern.
Erratic Shifting or Loss of Transmission Operation
Several complaints have been reported regarding Volvo S60 transmission shifting issues. Long shift times between gear shifts, hard shifting, hard downshifting and a loss of transmission operation all together to name a few.
If the issue is minor, a transmission software update may fix this issue. If available, the software should be updated before any repairs are made.
There are several technical service bulletins (TSB's) available from Volvo that address these shifting issues and they should be consulted by the repair shop during the automatic transmission diagnostic process.
Regular servicing of the transmission fluid can help with preventing transmission failure, but not in all cases. Follow the suggested fluid replacement interval recommended by Volvo. You will find this in your owners manual, or find it here: http://bit.ly/Volvo_Owners_Manuals
Abnormal Noise From Front Suspension Due to Worn Control Arm Bushings
The front control arm bushings wear out, resulting in alignment issues and squeaking and/or knocking noises from the front end. Worn bushings will require replacement.
Rumbling Noise From Front of Vehicle While Driving
One or both of the front wheel bearings may fail resulting in a rumbling noise from the front wheel area when driving over 25 mph.
The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light May Illuminate
The anti-lock brake system (ABS) warning light and/or other dash warning lights may illuminate due to a failed ABS Control Module. Replacement of the failed module is generally required to correct this concern.
Fuel gauge, rear door locks and trunk switch inoperative
There is a computer that controls all these items and it's called the rear electrical module, or the "REM". To temporarily address this issue you can pull the fuse from the rear fuse box labeled "REM" and everything should start working again.
Volvo has updated software for the REM that will help prevent this from happening again. See a Volvo shop or Dealer and have this and all the software in the vehicle checked and updated every 30,000 miles.
Update all software when performing software upgrade
Several software related issues have been reported and we recommend that when a software upgrade is performed you have all the software upgraded
Steering wheel moduel (SWM) may stop working
The steering wheel module (SWM) stops working, this affects the turn signals, horn, cruise control, and audio buttons on the steering wheel.
Volvo Extends Warranty on ETM Due to High Failure Rate
The Electronic Throttle Module (ETM) has a higher than normal failure rate. Volvo has extended the warranty on some of the ETMs to 10 years/200,000 miles
Mass Air Flow Sensor May Fail
The mass air flow (MAF) sensor may fail, resulting in drivability issues and/or illumination of the Check Engine Light.
Automatic Transmission May Have Shifting Problems
Problems have been reported with the automatic transmission. Our technicians recommend complete diagnoses before beginning any repairs.