Problem Reports
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1999 Volvo S80
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.
Transmission Will Not Shift Properly
Many complaints have been reported regarding Volvo S80 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 address this issue so if available, the software should be updated before any repairs are made. After a software update or repair, the shift adaptation needs to be reset. A good quality Volvo repair shop will know how to perform this task.
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
Steering Wheel Module (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.
Check Engine Light Due to ABS Control Module Failure
There have been reports of a failed ABS Control Module causing the ABS and Check Engine warning lights to illuminate. Repair or replacement of the failed module will be required to correct this issue.
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.
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.
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.
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
Rough Idle, Stalling and Check Engine Light On
During the diagnosis of the symptoms the technician may pull diagnostic codes from the Engine Control Module that point to a lean air/fuel mixture. If no vacuum leaks are found, then the mass air flow sensor (MAF) is often the cause.
Replacement of the MAF will be needed, along with a reset of the Engine Control Module and erasing of the diagnostic trouble codes.
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.
Update all software when performing software upgrade
Automatic Transmission May Have Shifting Problems
Problems have been reported with the automatic transmission. Our technicians recommend complete diagnoses before beginning any repairs.
Rear electrical module may stop working
"SRS airbag urgent" warning when jump starting car
"SRS airbag service required URGENT" warning message appeared after I jump started the car (with some arcing -- battery was very dead). Internet research confirmed this is common problem -- also happens when negative (ground) wire is not disconnected when working on sound system or air conditioning. Must be taken to dealer to reset the warning message (Volvo proprietary bus message). My cost was $60.