Used Volvo S60

What to know before buying: Volvo S60

From 2 forum threads and 2 press tests · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The second-generation S60’s main strengths are its safety equipment, supportive seats and comfortable cabin, which suit long journeys.[4]one sourceOtrās paaudzes S60
• The second-generation S60 feels stable and balances ride comfort with handling reasonably well, although the D5 is not genuinely sporty.[4]one sourceOtrās paaudzes S60
• Cabin design and materials were rated well, but the multimedia system is complicated; pairing an iPhone took almost half an hour in the test.[4]one sourceOtrās paaudzes S60
• Running costs for an early S60 depend heavily on the workshop: main dealers can be expensive, while an independent Volvo specialist can reduce costs substantially.[1]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009

Typical faults

• First-generation cars have reports of weak suspension and steering parts: anti-roll-bar links, tie rods and inner steering joints were replaced at 50,000–160,000 km.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009

  50 000–160 000 km

• The upper engine-mount rubber can split; forum reports describe failures at 100,000 and 120,000 km.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009

  100 000–120 000 km

• Forum evidence flags electronic throttle module (ETM) failure on 2000–2001 petrol cars.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009

  2000–2001 · petrol

• Failures of both front-door locks have been reported on the first-generation S60.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009
• Paint at the bottom of the A-pillar may begin bubbling after roughly five years.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009
• After roughly five years, the exhaust flex section and the centre and rear silencers may need replacement.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009

Which engine and version to take

• The second-generation D5 biturbo diesel with a six-speed automatic pulls strongly from low revs; the test recorded up to 6 l/100 km at a steady highway pace.[4]one sourceOtrās paaudzes S60
• For annual mileage below 10,000 km, a forum consultation recommended a petrol engine for an early S60.[1]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009

What to avoid

• Treat 2000–2001 petrol versions with particular caution because forum evidence identifies a risk of electronic throttle module failure.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009

What to check at the inspection

• During the test drive, listen for suspension knocks and inspect the anti-roll-bar links, tie rods and inner steering joints.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009
• Inspect the upper engine-mount rubber for cracks or splitting.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009
• On 2000–2001 petrol cars, check electronic throttle operation and scan for diagnostic faults.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009
• Lock and unlock both front doors repeatedly to verify that their locks work correctly.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009
• Check the bottoms of the A-pillars for bubbling paint, and inspect the exhaust flex section and both silencers.[3]one sourceS60 MY2000–MY2009
• On a second-generation car, test the multimedia controls and pair your phone, as Bluetooth connection repeatedly failed during the review.[4]one sourceOtrās paaudzes S60

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]tipcars.sk — diskuze k tématu: Jak je na tom Volvo S60? · forum
2. [2]auto.jautajums.lv — Volvo s60 - atsauksmes? 2.lapa | Auto, moto | jautajums.lv · forum
3. [3]volvo-forum.nl — https://www.volvo-forum.nl/viewtopic.php?t=4950 · press
4. [4]whatcar.lv — Testa brauciens - Pirmie iespaidi: Volvo S60 D5 - What Car? · press

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