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How Long Do Volvo S60s Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan


in Reliability
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Source: Pixabay

When it comes to compact luxury cars, consumers have many different options to choose from. If you’re looking for a more-than-competent entry-level luxury sedan that offers top-notch safety ratings and reliability, it’s hard to go wrong with the Volvo S60.

The Volvo S60 is a well-known luxury sedan that has been on the roads since the early 2000s. It succeeds in combining elegance with functionality, making it a solid pick in its segment. Furthermore, it has a well-appointed interior with wonderfully comfortable seats and many tech features. The Swedish compact luxury car is renowned for its innovative safety features, refined performance, and design philosophy that strikes a balance between comfort and sophistication.

If you’re interested in this compact luxury sedan, you’re probably asking: how long do Volvo S60s last? For today, we highlight the longevity of the Volvo S60, how many miles it can last, and whether it’s a good investment for used car buyers.

How Many Miles Does the Volvo S60 Last?

The Volvo S60 is an excellent option for a long-lasting luxury sedan due to its longevity and reliability.

The Volvo S60 is a highly reliable car with a durable build that can typically last for around 200,000 miles before any major repairs are needed, as long as it is properly maintained. This means that if you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year, you can expect your S60 to serve you well for roughly 13 years. Some Volvo S60s have even been reported to have driven over a million miles without any major issues.

This sentiment is further echoed by many owners from various online communities. For instance, S60 owners have shared their high-mileage vehicles on a thread from SwedeSpeed. One owner of a 2005 T5 model mentioned that their car is fast approaching 200,000 miles. They’ve had the car since it had 70,000 miles and drove about 500 miles a week. Meanwhile, A 2005 2.5t owner mentioned their vehicle had just turned 200,000 miles and was still getting 26 mpg. They were planning on doing timing kit maintenance soon.

Reliability-wise, RepairPal rates Volvo as a brand with a reliability score of 3.5 out of 5, ranking it 17th out of 32 brands​​. Meanwhile, the S60, particularly the 2021 model, has an average reliability score of 3.0 out of 5.0 from Consumer Reports​​.


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What Is a Good Mileage for a Volvo S60?

How long do Volvo S60s last? The “good” mileage of a Volvo S60 mainly depends on its maintenance history and model year. Ideally, anything under 100,000 miles is considered favorable, and crossing this milestone means it’s a high-mileage unit now.

As mentioned, Volvo S60s are known for their durability, with many owners reporting over 200,000 miles with proper care. As with most vehicles, the key to maximizing the lifespan of your Volvo S60 is regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and fixing any mechanical issues.

When purchasing a used Volvo S60, it is vital to consider the vehicle’s mileage. A car with a lower mileage may last longer, but even models with higher mileage can be a great option if they have been well-maintained. Ultimately, what constitutes “good” mileage for a Volvo S60 is when the car’s care and maintenance history matches its odometer reading.

Should I Buy a Used Volvo S60 with More Than 100k Miles?

Buying a used Volvo S60 with more than 100k miles can be a viable option, but it’s essential to be aware of potential maintenance issues that may arise after crossing this mileage threshold.

According to members of the SwedeSpeed forum, there are some critical maintenance items that Volvo owners should consider. One of these is the timing belt replacement, which should be done around 120,000 miles but can cost about $1,000 – but it is necessary to prevent engine damage.

Also, various fluid changes need to be done, including Haldex, transmission, coolant, steering, and differential fluids. These changes can cost around $800 if done at a dealer. Additionally, front struts might need replacement, and while OEM parts cost around $1,800, there are aftermarket options that are cheaper and just as effective.

Overall, while a Volvo S60 with over 100k miles can still be a good purchase, buyers should be prepared for potential maintenance and repair costs that might arise due to the vehicle’s age and mileage.


THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE VOLVO S60

If you’re interested in this car, it’s critical to purchase a quality year. You might wonder - what is the most reliable Volvo S60 year on the market?


Common Volvo S60 Issues

How long do Volvo S60s last? Despite its reliability and durability, the S60 has several issues potential buyers should know:

  • Transmission problems: Owners have reported issues with the transmission, particularly in models from 2001 to 2014. These include hard shifts, long shift intervals, and sometimes complete loss of transmission performance. The check engine light may also display alongside these issues.
  • Excessive oil consumption: Several Volvo S60 models suffered from excessive oil consumption, a severe problem that typically manifested around 75,000 miles. Owners reported that the vehicle provided no warning until the oil level was critically low, which increases the risk of engine seizure.
  • Front upper strut mount failure: This issue is prevalent in S60 vehicles manufactured between 2001 and 2009 and pertains to the early wearing and failure of front upper strut mounts that are part of the suspension system. Symptoms include loud noises when driving over bumps or potholes.
  • Exterior light bulbs may burn out prematurely: RepairPal reports that specific models of the S60 (2002 to 2012) may tend for their exterior light bulbs to burn out prematurely. Though this can be inconvenient, it is not a severe issue. The cost to replace the bulbs usually runs around $200. Unfortunately, this problem has no permanent resolution; the only option is to replace the bulbs as necessary.

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Final Thoughts: Is a Used Volvo S60 a Wise Investment?

The Volvo S60 stands out as a compelling option for those seeking a luxury vehicle that doesn’t compromise longevity and reliability. With its expected lifespan of 200,000 miles, it’s one of the longer-lasting compact luxury sedans in the market – one that you can safely buy used, provided that maintenance and repairs are on-point.



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