Problem Reports
Problem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
2003 Volvo S60 Problems
Coolant Leak From Front of Vehicle
Coolant leaking from the front of the vehicle is often due to a leaking radiator, which must be replaced.
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.
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.
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.
Hesitation and Idle Issues Due to Failed Mass Airflow Sensor
Mass airflow sensor (MAF) failures have been reported, causing engine idle problems, as well as acceleration hesitations. The Check Engine Light will normally illuminate when the MAF starts to fail.
Oil Leaks From PCV Housing and Turbo Return Line Seals
Engine oil leaks from the PCV housing and turbocharger oil return line seals have been reported.
Software Upgrades May Fix Transmission/Cold Start Problems
Erratic shifting from the automatic transmission and cold start issues can sometimes be corrected by software upgrades to the engine and transmission control modules.
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.
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.
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
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.
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