When it comes to buying a new car, reliability should be one of the top considerations. After all, you don’t want to be stuck on the side of the road with a breakdown or constantly visiting the repair shop. Volvos have long had a reputation for being safe and durable vehicles, but how do they stack up in terms of reliability?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Reliability Ratings | Above average in J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study (10th out of 32 brands in 2022). Consumer Reports also rates Volvos well for reliability. |
| Common Issues | Transmission problems, engine cooling system issues, electrical gremlins, fuel system problems. But these don’t affect every model equally. |
| Longevity | Volvos like the XC90, S60, XC60 rank highly for reaching 200,000+ miles when maintained properly, indicating good long-term dependability. |
| Warranty | 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, plus additional powertrain and corrosion coverage. Average for the luxury segment. |
| Overall Verdict | Generally above average predicted reliability versus competitors. Tend to experience fewer problems, especially at higher mileages when maintained well. Good overall reliability outlook for the brand. |
In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into Volvo’s reliability ratings, common issues, and overall dependability to help you determine if a Volvo is the right choice for you.
Volvo Reliability Ratings
To gauge a brand’s reliability, it’s helpful to look at industry scores and surveys from reputable sources. J.D. Power, a leading provider of automotive data and analytics, rates Volvo above average in its Vehicle Dependability Study, which measures problems experienced after three years of ownership. In the 2022 study, Volvo ranked 10th out of 32 brands.
Similarly, Consumer Reports data shows that Volvos typically performs well in their independent reliability surveys and testing. For example, the Volvo XC90 luxury SUV received a higher reliability rating than many competitors in its class.
These positive ratings indicate that Volvo owners tend to experience fewer problems than average when it comes to vehicle dependability.
Common Volvo Issues
While Volvos generally rank well for reliability, no vehicle is perfect. Some of the more common issues reported by Volvo owners include:
Transmission Problems:
Certain Volvo models have had issues with transmission shudders, harsh shifts, and premature transmission failure, particularly with the 8-speed Aisin transmissions found in many vehicles.
Engine Cooling System:
Problems with the engine coolant system, water pump, and associated components have been reported across various Volvo models.
Electrical Gremlins:
Like many modern vehicles loaded with technology, Volvos can sometimes experience electrical issues related to sensors, control modules, and wiring connections.
Fuel System Issues:
Problems such as hard starts, rough idling, and stalling have been linked to fuel system components like fuel pumps on some Volvo models.
These are just some of the more frequently reported issues, but they don’t necessarily affect every Volvo equally. Proper maintenance and addressing problems promptly can help minimize larger repair expenses.
Volvo Dependability
Over Time One key factor in determining a vehicle’s reliability is how it holds up over many years and miles of ownership. According to automotive research firms like iSeeCars, Volvos tend to have above-average ratings for longevity.
For example, a study by the firm found that the Volvo XC90 ranked as one of the longest-lasting luxury SUVs, with over 3% of XC90s reaching 200,000 miles. Other Volvo models like the S60 and XC60 also fared well in terms of vehicles reaching higher mileage compared to the average vehicle.
These findings suggest that when maintained properly, Volvos have the potential to provide reliable transportation for many years and miles. Of course, this can vary based on factors like driving conditions and individual maintenance habits.
Warranty Coverage
Every new Volvo comes with a comprehensive factory warranty that can provide additional peace of mind. Currently, Volvo offers a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, along with additional coverage for the powertrain, corrosion protection, and more.
This warranty coverage is about average for the luxury vehicle segment but provides protection against defects and premature component failures during the initial period of ownership. Volvo also offers extended warranty options for those wanting long-term coverage.
Overall Reliability Verdict
After examining the data and common feedback from owners, it’s fair to say that modern Volvos generally rank above average in terms of predicted reliability when compared to other brands.
While no vehicle is immune to occasional issues, Volvos tends to experience fewer problems than many competitors, particularly when it comes to dependability over higher mileage. Combining this potential longevity with strong warranty coverage creates a positive overall reliability outlook for the brand.
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However, it’s still important to stay on top of recommended maintenance, address any issues promptly, and weigh your personal needs and driving habits when determining if a Volvo is the right fit. As with any vehicle purchase, taking the time to research reliability data can help you make an informed decision and maximize your satisfaction with the car over many years of ownership.
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