1998 Volvo S70 GLT turbo

Summary:

I expected much more from a Volvo

Faults:

I have had to regularly replace brake and taillight bulbs. At least one has to be replaced every two months. The suspension is very stiff. Hitting a pot hole causes CD player to skip. It doesn't feel like there is any absorption taking place at all. I had the shocks checked and they were fine. Had problem with front end brakes where there was too much resistance while driving causing poor mileage and excessive where on pads. I had to have pads and rotors replaced at 75,000 miles. An engine sensor malfunctioned, causing service engine light to remain on. Certified Volvo repair shop confirmed it was the sensor that was broken and nothing else with the engine. In the state in which I live, my car will not pass emissions check if any service lights are on. I had to pay $750 US to have it fixed. Most recently, my dash board lights are not working when headlights are on. If I turn headlights off, dash comes on. As of yesterday, the headlights now do not work. I think it is a defect in the switch. Lastly, I actually had water dripping through my cabin light switches next to my review mirror. I have no idea how that happened. I have a 1998 Honda Accord that has a few problems, but nothing like the nagging issues of my Volvo.

General Comments:

Safety features are very good; side airbags, reinforced body, anti-lock braking system.

Interior is nice as well the heated seats.

Could be more fuel efficient.

I am very disappointed with the electrical issues associated with this vehicle. I have never experienced anything close to these problems and I find it very interesting that I am not the only one. I don't believe it is a coincidence. I am waiting for a recall notice.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 31st January, 2005

31st Jan 2005, 19:41

The problems are very old. You might not have any recall anymore.

19th Aug 2005, 23:13

I have had a lot of nagging problems with my 1998 Volvo S70 since I purchased it in 1999 as a used car. Thanks to the extended warranty I purchased for $1700 or I would have put out more than the $6000 I have spent to keep this car running. This includes regular oil changes, brake work and required maintenance recommended by the manufacturer.

I am currently having problems with the light switch as mentioned before. I do notice that if I start the car and turn the switch back to the neutral position and back to the headlight position, the lights come on. It is loose and I'm afraid what the cost will be. I'm about to give up on the car. It is paid for and I hate to get another car, but I'm tired of spending so much money. Plus the fact I love my car.

14th Oct 2005, 14:52

My 1998 s70 does have a running fan to force to air for the heat or the ac. and now my child has held on to the door while remotely unlocking the door and now I cannot lock the driver's side door. I am not happy that only one door has a key hole to open the doors. this is not the best thing that has come about for vehicles.

3rd Mar 2009, 20:00

I have a 98 S70 Volvo. I'm just now starting to have problems with mine.

Recently I've had issues with the headlights. They won't come on at all. I took it to the shop; cost me 250.00 to replace what they said was the "light relay switch". My bright lights work but the regular light did not. It did fix the problem. However two months passed and just about two weeks ago they quit on me again. Lucky me, the person called the dealership and gave me the same part for free as a replacement. As of now, the lights come on and no further issues.

If your headlights are not working but the brights are, 1) check to see if the bulbs are burnt out. 2) check fuses 3) replace relay switch. --- if you intend to try and do the relay switch, unless you know someone, try ordering the part yourself from the dealership and putting it in. It's just light pushing a plug in an outlet. VERY VERY EASY! I know nothing about cars and I can do this myself. At least it can save you 200.00

1999 Volvo S70 2.4

Summary:

Distinctive and satisfying

Faults:

I have had to replace the front suspension bushings, and I understand that this is normal for a front wheel drive arrangement.

And then an oxygen sensor failed, so that was a $150 part.

General Comments:

The beauty of the car does not sink in during a trip to the store to get milk. I find that only after about 30 miles does the zen of the car begin to come forward. So it really is a touring car.

We have three children, and after putting a roof box on the top, we all get in and have an excellent time making the three hour or so drive to either grandma's or the ski trails.

But the really great thing about the car is it's design. The form is distinctive. I can spot a Volvo 850 or S series a long way off on the highway. I am afraid that we are loosing the ability to style a car. But there is a flair and uniqueness about this car that I find to be extremely valuable.

I am sure that many other cars do all sorts of things better than the S70. But when you factor in the overall visual impression of the car combined with it's nice handling and engineering, I just think that it is very satisfying to drive and own.

The car has 79,000 miles on it and it is still on original pads and rotors.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th January, 2005