PROBLEM GUIDE

2006–2009 Volvo S60 Common Problems

Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.

Last updated March 2026

21

complaints filed for this model year

2006–2009

Model years affected

Engine problems (30% of repairs) and electrical and A/C problems (21%) are the two largest repair categories for this generation. The NHTSA complaint sample is small — 21 complaints — so the list below may not be the full picture.

Quick Scan: 10 Issues

Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.

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PROBLEM DETAILS

Suspension wear — staged by mileage

Clunking/crashing over bumps, squeaks and creaks, noisy wheel bearings, loose steering

Check engine light: Off

This vehicle's suspension wear follows an unusually clean staged progression: early failures (27,000-50,000 mi) are spring seats and struts; mid-range failures (80,000-120,000 mi) are bearings and bushings; higher-mileage failures (140,000+ mi) are comprehensive suspension rebuilds. Named parts across all stages: struts and shocks, control arm bushings, sway bar links and ends, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, spring seats, and steering racks. Cost was reported only as a percentage distribution, not a real range, so we're not quoting a specific dollar figure. A suspension fault doesn't trigger a check-engine light.

27,000 – 140,000+ mi (staged, see body)

Repair costs for this problem were reported only as percentage bands, so no dollar range is shown. Wear tends to appear in stages as mileage climbs.

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Engine stalling / throttle module malfunction

Stalling, throttle module malfunction

Check engine light: On

Engine's the largest repair category (30%) for this vehicle, and NHTSA complaints describe stalling and throttle module malfunctions (5 of 21 complaints) alongside transmission failures. A stalling fault like this typically triggers a check-engine light.

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Electrical shutdown / battery issues

Complete power failures, electrical shutdown incidents

Check engine light: Off

Electrical/AC is the second-largest repair category (21%) and was the single most-reported issue type in NHTSA complaints — complete power failures, battery issues, and electrical shutdown incidents. A battery/electrical fault like this typically doesn't trigger a check-engine light.

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Transmission Shifting Issues, Internal Failure/Software

Transmission shifting issues stemming from internal failure or software faults

Check engine light: Off

Transmission shifting issues stemming from internal failure or software faults. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 382 owner reports on file.

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Exterior Light Bulbs Burn Out Prematurely

Exterior light bulbs burning out well before their expected life

Check engine light: Off

Exterior light bulbs burning out well before their expected life. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 130 owner reports on file.

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ABS Control Module May Fail

ABS control module failure

Check engine light: Off

ABS control module failure. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 88 owner reports on file.

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Adding coolant frequently without visible leak

Owners report needing to add coolant frequently with no visible leak

Check engine light: Off

Owners report needing to add coolant frequently with no visible leak. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 61 owner reports on file.

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Hesitation/Idle Issues Due to Failed Mass Airflow Sensor

Hesitation and idle issues caused by a failed mass airflow sensor

Check engine light: On

Hesitation and idle issues caused by a failed mass airflow sensor. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 54 owner reports on file.

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Coolant Leak From Front, Leaking Radiator

Visible coolant leak from the front of the vehicle, traced to a leaking radiator

Check engine light: Off

Visible coolant leak from the front of the vehicle, traced to a leaking radiator. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 36 owner reports on file.

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Fuel gauge/rear door locks/trunk switch inoperative

Fuel gauge, rear door locks, or trunk switch failing to function

Check engine light: Off

Fuel gauge, rear door locks, or trunk switch failing to function. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 26 owner reports on file.

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This generation has a confirmed Takata airbag recall (Campaign 21V766000). NHTSA data includes a severe crash case with 4 injuries and non-deploying airbags. Separately, one isolated NHTSA report describes an under-hood fire starting near the headlight with no warning indicators. It is not tied to a confirmed recall and appears only once in the data. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.

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