2015 Volvo S80 Has A Coolant Leak

Diagnosing Coolant Leak Issues in Your 2015 Volvo S80 and Effective Repair Strategies

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
50% chance it's the
Loose Hose Connections
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25% chance it's the
Radiator
0%
25% chance it's the
Water Pump
The most common reasons a 2015 Volvo S80 has a coolant leak are loose hose connections, a broken radiator, or a failed water pump.
  • Loose Hose Connections: A loose hose connection can lead to vacuum leaks or fluid loss, resulting in poor engine performance or overheating.
  • Radiator: A damaged or clogged radiator can impede coolant flow, resulting in engine overheating and reduced cooling efficiency.
  • Water Pump: A failing water pump can lead to coolant leaks or overheating due to inadequate circulation of coolant in the engine.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2015 Volvo S80 has a coolant leak?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

When the head gasket begins to fail, the engine may have no symptoms at all. They only begin to occur when the leak has reached an engine oil passage, engine coolant passage or the engine cylinder.

When that happens, the engine may be very difficult to start, and run roughly when idling. There may be oil or coolant leaking, and the engine may begin to overheat, or at least run hot. At this point, there may be coolant in the engine oil pan — this will look creamy and lighter in color than the oil. Also, the radiator or engine coolant reservoir may have a gurgling sound, the presence engine oil, or smell of combustion. And the check engine light will come on.

The coolant being burned in the engine will produce white exhaust that smells sweet, like engine coolant. When the head gasket fails completely, the engine will overheat within minutes of starting, will stall and then won't restart.

A failing heater core may cause the car's interior to smell like engine coolant. The smell will become worse when the heater is turned on. The engine may also begin to run hotter until the vehicle is repaired.

The worst-case scenario is the engine overheating, which can cause extensive engine damage.

If the heater core is clogged, the air that blows when the heater is turned on will not be very hot.

Problems with the intake manifold gasket can create the following symptoms:

  • Illuminated check engine light
  • Erratic engine performance
  • Oil and coolant leaks
  • Poor gas mileage
  • Stalling

» LEARN MORE: Intake manifold gasket symptoms

A failing radiator can cause the engine to run hot or overheat. Most radiators are made of metal and plastic. The plastic parts can become brittle and crack over time, causing a leak of coolant (typically green or pink in color). All manufacturers have a recommended service interval for coolant renewal. As the coolant ages, the additives breakdown and being to form solid deposits. These deposits will build up in the passages of the cooling system and will eventually clog components, including the radiator. A leaking or clogged radiator must be replaced. Some automatic transmission cars will also have a transmission cooler integrated into the radiator. Lines going to and from the transmission circulate transmission fluid to help cool the transmission in heavy duty applications such as towing or off-roading. If this integrated cooler fails, it can allow transmission fluid and coolant to mix. This will causing shifting issues in addition to overheating.

A coolant leak may be noted from the hoses. Coolant hoses can be damaged by oil leaks, or age. This will lead to swelling or cracking, it is suggested to replace the hoses before they begin leaking to avoid potential overheating.

The bad thermostat can cause two different sets of problems, depending on whether it's stuck open or stuck closed.

A thermostat that is stuck open can cause the engine to run colder than normal and turn on the check engine light. It may also cause poor fuel mileage and the heater to blow cool air.

A thermostat that is stuck closed will cause the vehicle to overheat. If a new thermostat doesn't resolve engine temperature problems, the cooling system needs to be checked for other issues.

» LEARN MORE: Signs of a bad thermostat, and how to fix it

The two most common signs of a bad pump are leaks and noises.

Leaking water pumps can result in damage to the drive and timing belts, and cause the engine to overheat. A failed water pump can be caused by other problems in the cooling system, such as a bad thermostat, radiator or head gasket.

What steps should I take to diagnose the coolant leak in my 2015 Volvo S80?

To effectively diagnose a coolant leak in your 2015 Volvo S80, begin with a comprehensive visual inspection of your vehicle. Look for any signs of coolant pooling beneath the car, as this can be a clear indicator of a leak. Next, examine the hoses and connections within the cooling system for any signs of wear, cracks, or loose fittings, as these are common culprits for leaks. Pay special attention to the water pump, as a failing pump can lead to significant coolant loss and potential overheating. Additionally, inspect the gaskets that seal various engine components; worn gaskets can allow coolant to escape. It's also crucial to monitor your coolant levels regularly; a sudden drop without visible leaks may suggest a hidden issue. For a more thorough investigation, consider using a coolant pressure tester, which can help identify leaks that are not immediately apparent. Lastly, be aware of any sweet, syrupy smells emanating from the engine compartment, as this can indicate a coolant leak. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the source of the coolant leak in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of a coolant leak in a 2015 Volvo S80?

When dealing with coolant leaks in a 2015 Volvo S80, it's crucial to understand the common problems that can arise. One of the primary culprits is the deterioration of hoses, which can become brittle and crack over time, leading to leaks. Additionally, the radiator may suffer from damage or corrosion, creating weak points where coolant can escape. Another frequent issue is the water pump, which can fail and contribute to coolant loss. Lastly, head gasket leaks are a serious concern, as they can lead to significant coolant loss and engine overheating. To effectively manage these issues, regularly inspect your vehicle for signs of leaks, such as puddles under the car or fluctuating coolant levels. By staying vigilant and addressing these common causes early, you can prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs down the line.

How urgent is it to address the coolant leak in my 2015 Volvo S80?

Addressing a coolant leak in your 2015 Volvo S80 is critical and should be treated with urgency. Ignoring this issue can lead to severe engine overheating, which not only affects your vehicle's performance but can also result in significant and costly engine damage. The longer you delay repairs, the greater the risk of extensive corrosion and other complications within the engine system. Moreover, a malfunctioning cooling system can pose serious safety hazards, as it may lead to unexpected engine failure while driving. Therefore, it is imperative to act swiftly in repairing any coolant leaks to maintain the health of your vehicle and ensure your safety on the road. Prioritizing this repair will help you avoid more extensive damage and costly repairs in the future, ultimately protecting your investment in your vehicle.

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2015 Volvo S80 Coolant Leak: Causes & Repair Costs