Erratic Shifting or Loss of Transmission Operation on Volvo V70

Submitted by Bret Bodas · May 29, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Many complaints have been reported regarding Volvo Cross Country 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. 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

149 people reported this problem
59 comments
Schedule Repair

Volvo V70 vehicles with this problem

Average mileage: 181,537 miles
(14,700 - 2,400,000)

Search for another problem

RepairPal Car Genius

Ask our experts about your Volvo.

RepairPal Car Genius™ is a free resource for vehicle owners seeking advice on maintenance, auto repair, shop inquiries, estimates, and finding a trustworthy repair shop in your area.

 Auto Repair Expert Auto Repair Expert

Call us at 877-913-1554

Available 9am – 6pm ET Monday through Friday

Call Our Experts