Used 2001 Volvo S60 Consumer Reviews
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153,000 miles and still tight as a drum
I bought this car and have owned it for a year. It was bought used as a two owner of lease. For the year, miles, safety features and modern amenities/luxury items if offered it was the most car for the money I could afford that was also the safest. Mine is still super tight and rattle free. I was able to get the TPS (throttle position sensor) which is about a 1000-1500 repair done free at my dealership because it was a recalled (ww.vexedvolvo.com) and DO NOT buy a car that hasn't had it replaced, they all fail. They warranty is 10 years and 200,000 miles for replacement. Other than that it has been trouble free. Make sure tranny fluid has been changed and timing belt done too!
I love my S60
I actually recieved this car at 192,000 miles, but I had been driving it as a family car from 168,000. We LOVE this car. My father and I do all the maintainence ourselves because let's just face it, Volvo's prices are nuts. At 198,884 (as of today) there are a few problems. My A/C cuts out after about 15 minutes, and I cannot turn it on if I want to get on the freeway. I also have a very rocky shifting, but have never had any real transmission issues as of now (knock on wood) and the suspension is less than desirable. However for a 18 year old? This was a great car to inherit. Other than the problems listed above, I love this car.
- 2.4 SedanMSRP: $6,995847 mi away
- 2.4T SedanMSRP: $4,9951,019 mi away
- 2.4 SedanMSRP: $3,5001,488 mi away
Not bad
This car is ok. I'm a true Volvo fan and this is a little disappointment in the reliability department coming from my '88 760 GLE. But it's so much fun to drive and very comfortable. If you get one of these, make sure the transmission fluid is clear and red and the transmission control module has up-to-date software! If the fluid is not clear and red, only use 3309 ATF when you change it. The transmission is very sensitive in these cars so be prepared for some serious upkeep on it. I've been fortunate so far.
Volvo for Life
I have owned my S60 since 2001, just hit 70k miles. It has been reliable and saved my life in a highway spinout at 70+mph. I have been lightly rear-ended twice and I felt nothing, barely any damage, this car holds up and I feel SAFE! It does well on gas mileage for long highway trips but is a total gas guzzler in the city. It performs well in winter weather. I change the oil every 3500 miles and keep up routine maintenance. Car is really spacious and the trunk holds a lot. Overall it has been a reliable, safe, easy-to-drive car and I receive many complement on its looks.
S60 IS THE BEST YOU CAN BUY
THE CAR WAS EXCELLENT WHEN I PICKED IT UP AND JUST GETS BETTER AND BETTER WITH EACH MILE!
at 68K need to get new car
I have had the S60 for 10 years now, it has never left me stranded but I never get more than 20 MPG, even for a long trip. Had to replace the sunroof, now it seems the radiator is leaking, the transmission seems quirky, it has trouble shifting into higher gear so that may be sign of trouble, at 68K would not expect any of those items to be an issue. So at this point I am in process of looking for a good used car, will trade this in.
My Volvo
I have to be honest I read some reviews and was quite in disbelief of the what people said. I just bought a used Volvo that has 217,854 miles on it and it runs perfect. Basically what it boils down to is that my car had 1 owner who bought the car in 2001. If you dont take care of your car it wont run 217,000 miles..period!. i want to hear stuff like the light bulbs are easy to fix but the housing is brittle so be careful. I dont want to hear "this transmission sucks i bought the car in 2001 owned it for 4 years and never changed the oil in it and it blew up..Worst engine Ever!" because then you sound dumb and I learn nothing....so thanks and no i dont work for volvo im in the army i work
Lots of pros and cons
I bought a certified used S60 T5 from a great dealership. Unfortunately I moved and the dealerships I've dealt with in Los Angeles are pretty bad with customer service. Calabasas Volvo in particular is horrible. Anyway, I do really enjoy the car, but have been frustrated with some random problems that I think are unacceptable for a "luxury" car. Pros: 1) Very comfortable, wonderful seats and beautiful interior 2) adequate power and muscular feel 3) safe and stable Cons: 1) The turning radius is AWFUL. I cannot make U-turns, period. Ever. Even turning around in a parking lot is tough. 2) Visibility is really poor. 3) CD won't play burned CDs, often gets "stuck". 4) random electrical problems
I love it!
I bought my Volvo S60 new in 2001 and just turned 92,000 miles. For the most part, I have taken the car in for regular service maintenance. It has been a solid, reliable and fun to drive car. I have read some of the reviews below and I don't know why I haven't experienced any of the issues. The only thing I can say, is my car was maintained through the dealership. As the salesperson suggested, I changed the oil every 7,500 miles not the 3,500 recommended for most cars. Volvo has truly delivered with this car! The seats are comfortable. I have sat in the drivers and front, passenger seat and have absolutely no complaints.
I HATE this car!
This car is an absolute nightmare! I've had this car for 5 months and its spent most of the time in the shop. This car has MAJOR transmission problems. $3200 to rebuild the transmission and its still not working properly. The front suspension stinks, it has major design flaws and wears out prematurely. I just replaced the right side CV joint, control arms, sway bar links and tie rod assemblies. $1000 plus. The cooling fan went bad (previously replaced in a recall) and blew out my heater core $1200. I haven't dealt with my ETM but from what I heard its only a matter of time until mine dies. $1000 Do not read any of the early posts, the most recent posts are when the problems begin.
Great car
I purchased this T5 with 50K on it from a Volvo dealer figuring they would have auctioned it off if it was bad. This car has been a joy to drive, fast and fun, with no machanical issues. At 113K, it still feels new. I have had a few repairs but no big deal over all. I will be looking to buy the R once I reach 200K on this one.
Overall good, WATCH maintenance $$$
Bought for safety, performance, style and strong $$ value for features standard. Ride quality good, not very sporty handling (leans too much) and turbo lag with excessive torque steer. 5spd "adaptive" automoatic isn't your average automatic. I was told that the tranny shifts into neutral at a stop. When your foot releases off the brake, it shifts back into gear, creating a buck or feel of drivetrain slop. It is a strange feeling, but appaently normal according to Volvo.
Run away
Very dificult car to keep running. Averaged around $250 a mo to keep running. Kept losing its memory. Brake booster went out, suspension shot, transmission problems, turbo problems, oil leaks, multiple brake problems, wiring crumbling. And no one one knows how to work on it, they just throw parts at it. Dealer always says its mass air flow sensor, how maney in one year! Lost 15k in value in 2 yrs and still falling. Finally gave up and traded it in.
Not your father's Volvo
I must say that this car is total junk. At 60,000 miles the transmission needed to be rebuilt, cost: $2,700. Strut mounts, control arm bushings, alternator, 3 engine mounts, 2 door locks went bad. Bulbs go out at least once ever 2 weeks. Has an annoying idle issue that is recurring and is attributed to dirt on the throttle body. Strange rattles and noises. DANGEROUSLY wide turning radius. I am VERY, VERY, disappointed with the build quality of Volvo.
A most unreliable great car
Stay far away from this great car! Its reliability and Volvo support stinks! This was our 2nd Volvo and our last! Suspension components that break every two years, oil leaks, constant bulb failures, gas door, trunk lock, and a failed transmission! The transmission was a known problem early in life of car that reduced its life. Volvo created a feature that resulted in premature trans failure. This is well documented. If your trans fails out of warranty, which it will, Volvo and the dealer will say tough.
Very Unreliable + Expensive to Maintain
This is the worst car I've ever owned without question of the six total. It has expensive issues constantly popping up and has terrible rattles. I will never ever consider buying another Volvo. I can't wait to get rid of it. What a total disaster it has been. I regret the day I bought it. I don't normally complain about things, but they earned my scorn.
A good car to own
I'm 24 years old and I got the car when it first came out. I have never had problems with the car except the fuel door falling off. I have over a hundred thousand miles one the car and never had any issues. The next one I'm going to is going to be the volvo s60 R. I love the car and would not trade it in on anything. I purchased the evolve programmer and the advanced exhaust system and it opened the car up. if you have the money def get get the evolve kit.
Drive it 'till the wheels fall off
I love my car however it has been costly to maintain. Many problems occurred during the warranty period which thank heavens were covered. I now have 164,000 miles on it and hope for 100,000 more at minimum! It is beautiful however it is hard to see out of the back, turning radius is too big and handling is not as tight as I would like. I have also experienced interior issues including loose door panels, broken dash knobs and broken gear shift knob! All in all I would recommend Volvo to others however the overall quality of the car needs to be improved to compete with other cars in its "class'.
Owner for Life
My eye caught the dark ruby red color and I was hooked. I melted into the leather seats and fell in love. I've I had two of the door gaskets replaced as well as the accordion-like material used in the sun roof. The driver seat had too much play and they replaced the struts. The AC is ice-cold. Drawbacks: Scheduled maintenance is too expensive - $145 every 7500 miles. 30,000 mile check-up is $510.00. Care requires premium gas. I wish they had a Trunk Release button instead of having to use the key fob. And, a locking gas door. Center console cup holder is awkward - the lid should fold down. I love the car and would buy another one in a heartbeat.
Volvo S60
This is a wonderful automobile great styling comfortable tight construction.Volvo has done a very good job with this car. It really is fun to drive. It has a Swedish austerity and insouciance that I find quite reassuring.
fun but slow
As an accident reconstructionist, safety is #1. Volvo has always been the leader and that's why I drive one. Volvo's build quality is always 1 step up from most. Our 60 was used but certified with an extended warranty. The standard motor is adequate but not much acceleration. But it makes up for it in fuel economy 30mpg. The ride is a bit stiff. Would not recommend for long trips. Volvo replaced the transmission at 48k but it only cost of 50.00. I wouldn't buy any vehicle without an extended warranty. Volvo for at least part of my life.....
The Lupus Car
This is the most unreliable car I have ever owned, in the few months of ownership the car has been towed 3 times. I fact it reminds me of the ford "exploder" I once owned. Where should I begin? at approx. 70,000 the rotors had to be replaced, the sunroof broke, both headlights and license plate lights burned out with the plastic casings needing to be replaced, the fuel injection caused the car to stall into limp mode (the first tow), the battery cables were loose causing (the second tow) the transmission is slipping causing the car to lurch forward, and the third tow is do to another stall with unknown causes. I have owned this car 4.5 months. I will never recommend a Volvo.
S60
My first Volvo. While I enjoy the car, I don't see great design/engineering at work. Visibility is poor. Controls for windows, locks and mid-seat glove compartment difficult to reach. Only one switch to lock/unlock doors is irritating. If the drivers door is unlocked, must first lock it and push again to unlock passenger door. Cant open trunk from inside the car except with keychain control. Basic sound system is minimal. On the positive side, car rides very smooth but soundproofing could be better. I find the non-turbo model has plenty of pickup and power. The back seat is a joke. Too little leg room for an 11- year old. An adult would curse you.
Stay Away from the S60
I loved this car for the first 3 years, but it has turned into a nightmare during the last year. I have poured more than $3,000 into repairs in just 10,000 miles past the 4 year/50,000 mile waranty. The throttle modulator went out at 50,750 miles. No help from Volvo and $500 to repair. Then a piston went out in the transmission at 54,000 again no help from Volvo, paid $2,000. Then at 56,000 the passenger door lock panel went out to the tune of another $400. Just recently I was getting gas and the fuel door fell off. $125 later I was back on the road to dump this dog. The biggest problem is that these are common problems with the S60s and Volvo (Ford) is ignoring them and the owners.
Sweet Ride
I replaced a '96 maxima that I rode hard for 200k with this car. The Maxima was fast for only 190hp. I wanted something that was fast. I had been looking for an s-60. 1st gear ain't much to talk about, throw it in second and with the right RPM, you've got a rocket. The high pressure turbo is different. I squeal the tires after it is in gear and the RPM goes up. The car is one of those classic designs that won't go out of style. (They modeled the new S80 after it.) I only wish I would have sprung for the later edition R60 with 300 HP. Maintenance ain't horrible but there are weird squeaks & rattles all over the car. My car has all the options for an '01, trackball 5-speed.
A good BUY
Bought the S60 2.4T 1.5 years old (used) with 25,000 miles, because of it's good ratings and great price. Comparable Audi and VW models would have cost me $10,000 more and seemed harder to get. It's an overall excellent car. The ride can be a little hard due to it's suspension. This model EATS light bulbs with the dealer not being able to fix it. Overall very reliable and save vehicle!
I Love It
I bought this car new in 2001 after having 3 Mercedes in a row. I love this Volvo! Zero problems in 7 years. Only have had scheduled oil changes, etc. I bought this car because I demolished my husband's Volvo Wagon on a trip, flipped and rolled it down a ravine -- and opened the door and walked away. I wanted that feeling of safety for myself and have not been disappointed.
ok
Nice car for normal driving. Not enough power in 5 cyl. Dealer service sucks in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn! Parts expansive so get extanded warranty.
Transmission Problems with the S60??
We have been relatively satisfied with our S60 but have noticed that the transmission slips from time to time (it seems as if it shifts into neutral for a few seconds and there appears to be no pattern to this problem). We have been to the dealership 3 times for this issue but they were "not able to replicate the problem." At the dealership, there were 3 other customers with S60's and they were all there for transmission problems. Is this a common problem with the S60's?
s60 3rd volvo
S60 my third Volvo. Had 240, then 940. S60 has driving fun, but interior is small compared to previous Volvo. Doors dent at the slightest pressure. Previous Volvos exterior body structure was sturdier. Rear view visibility obscured by rear headrest. Have the auto drop for rear headrest, but that looks funny. Fearful that Ford has diluted Volvo's character& reliability.
Full Package
I love my car so much - I never even considered a Volvo until I drove the S60 T5! It handles great, even on ice, and has quite a kick to it. Of course, there are slight problems - I've had my car in the shop to repair the CD player twice already in 6 months, a rod has been replaced and my alignment is off. Random things seem to go wrong and I hate the fact that there is no trunk release inside the car!! Still, it's a smooth ride and I love it despite its flaws!
Try Building Something Competitive
If you don't want a close relationship with the dealer service team, think twice about buying a Volvo S60. I found myself at the service center on a regular basis for the following: slipping transmission, sun roof replacement, radio seek button wouldn't quit seeking, headlights/talelights burning out, gas cover fallin off, key stuck in ignition, and the list goes on. The Volvo service team acted like this was standard, no big deal. It seems that Ford has stripped Volvo and is selling the name plate, that's unfortanate.
move over bmw, here come the swedes
Fantastic Automobile for trip up to 500 miles in distance. Arm rest could be positioned better, with would assit in longer drives. Car has been to shop for both rear shocks, but that is it, with the exception of oil changes and tire rotations. Dealer (Guiffre Volvo Springfield) is exceptional on service.
Former volvo lover
I started with a 122s, then a 240. Loved them. Not this car. Bulbs constantly burning out from day 1. Dealer replaced rear control arms at 30K. Since then we've replaced another $2000 in suspension parts. Problems with air conditioner vents on hot days. They close, even though cold air is still present. Door lock system sometimes fails to lock the passenger door. Will never buy another Volvo.
Worst car I have ever owned
This car had more problems than I care to think about. I babied this car and still had sensors go bad, sunroof broken, transmission go bad at 80000 miles, lights burnt out and impossible to adjust. And last but not least, the car's engine was shuttering when I traded it in, my guess, bad turbo charger. The gas mileage was decent, but nothing spectacular. 19 city and 28 highway.
A good car with some things to know
I love this car. The suspension is not sporty and the seats are like home theater recliners, so I get a nice comfortable ride. At 6'4" 230 I fit easily in the front seats. The fuel economy is also surprisingly strong, I get about 27 MPG. So what are the drawbacks? The electrical system hasn't cost me any large dollar figure, but I always seem to have to replace bulbs. And when replacing a front head lamp, be careful, the housing is brittle and easily broken. Also, adults can't fit very easily in the back seat. I'm glad I bought it, but I will look for something with a little more engine kick and a more spacious back seat in my next ride.
Expensive junk!
Do not be seduced by the wonderful design and comfort of the '01 S60- it is a complete piece of junk! Transmission has failed, the interior is falling apart, front suspension is garbage (I have spent almost $4000 in front suspension repairs alone). This car is a money pit. And I only have 82,000 miles on it! I am done with it, and can't even sell it, so there it sits in my backyard collecting spiders. Do yourself a favor, buy the BMW 5 series instead, I should have!
Great cruiser
I've been really pleased with my commute since getting my S60. It's quiet, has good highway passing power (better than it is off the line) and is both fun and comfortable. The mileage has been much better than expected. All in all, it's a great buy. The A4 is much more cramped in back and the BMW 3 is muc more narrow in front. It's the roomiest ride in its class.
My 2nd Volvo
I must say that this has been the most trouble free car that I have ever own. It has the best sound system in the world next to then Lexus M&L system. This the perfect car to drive from Ct to GA in total comfort.
Great Car
I have been very happy with the performance and reliability of this car! Very comfertable for long drives and sporty enough for fun on the back roads. I always get two positive comments from passengers. "These seats are amazing" and "this thing takes off!!!"
My First Volvo
I was impressed with the new styling of the 2001 Volvo. With our first baby on the way, I purchased the 2001 S-60 2.4T because of the safety record of the Volvo. 3 months later we were involved in an accident which literally took the front off of the car. Our 3 month old was asleep in the back seat, and she never even woke up!! Since then, we purchased another Volvo, the 2002 S-60, 2.4T. I can't say enough about this car. If you are looking for a safe, well performing mid-priced car, this is it!! I suggest the Turbo over the standard car.
NOT THE FAMILY CAR WE WERE LOOKING FOR!!
Great car, if you don't have young children, in car seats! Only one rear facing car seat on the market fits in the car, and it can't be placed in the center, (the safest place in the car for children) by the way the car seat costs $300.00! If you use any other car seat, the passenger seat cannot be used. So much for our family car. Doors dent and scratch very easily. CD player has problems, fuel gage says it has gas, but car won't start?
VOLVO FOR LIFE
NO WONDER MOST PEOPLE WHO BUY A VOLVO END UP BUYING A FEW MORE IN THEIR LIFETIME. MY S60 HAS BEEN A PLEASURE TO DRIVE OVERALL. I'VE GONE THROUGH TWO WINTERS AND SEVERAL LONG TRIPS AND THE S60 IS AN ETREMELY NICE PLACE TO BE IN ON A LONG DRIVE...BEST SEATS IN THE WORLD!
Overall, best luxury and perf for the $
I am a car guy, and I tested a lot of cars. Narrowed down to Lexus 300 (balnd suspension) Infinity I35 (tons of power, boring looks) Mercedes C320 (inferior car) and The BMW 330i (road manners are excellent, but lots of $ with similar options). I chose the S60 2.4T because the 2.4 is a slug and I did not notice the extra horses or torque in the T5. Lag is about what it should be, and torque curve is good. I bought every option imaginable except for the navi system, because it's just not worth the $$$. Outside looks are awesome, much better than the others I considered. Definitely recommend 17 inch wheels. Enhances ride and looks nice.
Don't get a Volvo!
Owning this car made me realize what kind of company Volvo is. First of all all Volvo dealers are franchased independant shops, that means Volvo has NO control over them. I had bad experience with Bay Ridge Volvo - American Inc located in Brooklyn NY. My s60 was fine until 110k miles. I started having engine idling problems. This BayRidgeVolvo dealer told me, first we will change all 6 injectors $1600 then maybe catalytic $1000+ but didn't promise that this problem will go away. I went to another shop who changed PCV valve for $150. Before they tried to shut off the check engine light 4 times, charging me each time for something new. I had to fight to get my $ back, but did not get all of it.
Volvo for life
Best mid-priced Volvo to date
Could be a great sports car
Overall I like the car but thought it was more sports oriented than it actually is - it sure looks the part. The drive train is fine, just that the suspension is weak. I love the fit and finish, the seats are incredible and the optional sound system is the best I ever heard.
Loved it... with one kid
We loved the car with one kid. This back seat was not made for multiple kids. Our rear facing car seat worked in the middle. Loved the performance and comfort. Best drive from PHX to Oregon I have ever driven.
Great Car
With the impending arrival of my daughter, my wife persauded me to get her the S60, little did she know that it has now become "my" car. As to the car seat issue, we have never had a problem. While you can't have the front seats all the way back, there is still room. I am 6'1" and put the car seat behind the drivers seat and only have to slide the drivers up a inch or two; when ever my wife has the car, she puts the car seat behind the passenger seat with out any problems.
Satisfied Driver
Went from a 1999 Lexus ES300 to the Volvo S60. Was surprised to find that the ride is actually better. Have been extremely impressed with the quality and design of the S60. After nearly 15000 miles, the car drives as it did the day I bought it. Would definately consider another.