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1998-2004 Volvo C70 Reliability
Date Published: 2/20/08
Our reliability study for this generation Volvo C70 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Volvo C70.
1998-2004 Volvo C70 Reliability
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Convertible top: The trim molding comes loose from the drip rail on convertibles. (1999)
Coolant leak: Water may enter the passenger compartment between the firewall and engine compartment. Adding sealer between the two may fix the problem. (1998)
Oil leak: Replacement copper washers might fix oil pump leaks from mounting screws on 2.5-liter engine. (1998)
Paint/body: The drain holes in the rocker panels may be clogged with body sealer leading to premature rusting. (1998)
Vehicle noise: A whining noise from the front of the car requires dampers on both half shafts. (1998-99)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name Repair Cost
A/C Compressor $585
Alternator $410
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $920
Brakes $310
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $650
Constant Velocity Joints $1,150
Exhaust System $445
Radiator $475
Shocks and/or Struts $1,435
Timing Chain or Belt $415
NHTSA Recall History
1998: Front-passenger airbag may be overly sensitive to certain electrostatic discharges; could possibly cause inadvertent deployment.
1998: Operation of headlight switch over extended period of time can result in inconsistent operation.
1998-00 C70: Over extended time period, headlight switch may cease to operate.
1999-02 C70 convertible: A dirty throttle housing and/or inefficient software calibration may force the vehicle into limp home mode. Dealers will install the current software upgrade onto the involved vehicles.
2001 V70: Bolted joint attaching the bracket for the child restraint, may have been incorrectly tightened. The seat occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of injury.
2001 V70: Rear-outboard seatbelt-anchorage bolts may have been incorrectly tightened. In the event of a crash, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained.
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