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Volvo S80 recalls

DVSA has published 49 safety recalls that name the Volvo S80 since 1999, 3 of them since 2020. Between them they cover at least 452,547 UK vehicles of this model.

Is your S80 affected? Check the exact vehicle

How the Volvo S80 does at the MOT: Volvo S80 MOT pass rate and common failures.

The latest 40 Volvo S80 recalls

  1. S60, S60CC, S80, V40, V40CC, V60, V60CC, V70, XC60, XC70 · there is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system which may result in insufficient cooling of engine components

    16 Jul 2020 · R/2020/210

    There is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system which may result in insufficient cooling of engine components.

    Fix: Add an extra degassing line (Bleeder Hose) between the cooling system radiator and the cooling system expansion tank which will evacuate the trapped air

    76,945 vehicles · built 15 Oct 2013 to 11 Apr 2016

  2. S60, S60CC, S80, V40, V40CC, V60, V60CC, V70, XC60, XC70 · there is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system

    8 Jul 2020 · R/2020/205

    There is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system which may result in insufficient cooling of engine components.

    Fix: Add an extra degassing line (Bleeder Hose) between the cooling system radiator and the cooling system expansion tank which will evacuate the trapped air.

    15,167 vehicles · built 21 Nov 2012 to 11 Apr 2016

  3. S60, S60CC, S80, V60, V60CC, V70, XC60, XC70 · potential breakage/fatigue of a flexible steel cable supporting the front seatbelt anchor point

    1 Jul 2020 · R/2020/192

    Potential breakage/fatigue of a flexible steel cable supporting the front seatbelt anchor point.

    Fix: Replace the seat belt fastener with a new designed seat belt fastening.

    170,160 vehicles · built 7 Feb 2006 to 8 Apr 2016

  4. S60, S60CC, S80, S90, V40, V40CC, V60, V60CC, V70, V90, V90CC, XC60, XC70, XC90 · the engine's plastic inlet manifold may melt and deform

    7 Oct 2019 · R/2019/180

    The engines plastic inlet manifold may melt and deform

    Fix: Update vehicles with improved soot reducing software cleaning of TMAP and EMAP. Fit additional hoses where necessary.

    • S80: vehicle count not given · built 15 Oct 2013 to 7 Apr 2016
    • S80: vehicle count not given · built 21 Nov 2012 to 8 Apr 2016
  5. S60, S60CC, S80, V40, V40CC, V60, V60CC, V70, XC60, XC70, XC90 · small cracks on the inside of a rubber fuel hose

    4 Jan 2019 · R/2018/377

    Small cracks on the inside of a rubber fuel hose.

    Fix: Replacement of affected fuel hoses.

    30,777 vehicles · built 11 Apr 2015 to 30 May 2016

  6. S60, S80, V40, V60, V70 · coolant leakage may result in a fire

    26 Oct 2016 · R/2016/249

    It has been identified that during the engine warm-up process and under certain driving/climate conditions for instance periods of high acceleration or high engine load immediately after a cold start in cold climates there is the possibility for coolant leakage or oil seepage. This can lead to the possibility in a worst-case scenario of smoke or a slow developing fire in the engine compartment. However the driver will receive a warning message on the Driver�s Information Module indicating a low coolant level.

    Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to modify the coolant bypass valve and install a new exhaust manifold gasket.

    3,192 vehicles · built 28 May 2010 to 5 May 2015

  7. S60, S80, V60, V70, XC60, XC70 · fuel guage may not show fuel level correctly

    18 Jan 2016 · R/2015/253

    Fuel gauge may not show correct level

    Fix: The remedy is not yet available for all models. Until a remedy is available the manufacturer advises to maintain fuel level above approx one third.

    1,109 vehicles · built 24 Nov 2014 to 17 Apr 2015

  8. S60, S80, V60, V70, XC60, XC70 · parking brake may unintentionally release

    19 Feb 2015 · R/2015/040

    Vehicles with manual gearboxes and start/stop functionality have Parking Brake Module (PBM) software that may allow the parking brake to unintentionally release. The unintended release of the parking brake can only occur when the engine is running and the gearstick moved so it will happen when the vehicle is attended.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to download upgraded Parking Brake Module (PBM) software.

    2,146 vehicles · built 4 Apr 2012 to 28 Jan 2015

  9. S60, S80, V60, V70, XC60, XC70 · loss of power steering assistance

    28 Nov 2013 · R/2013/140

    The auxiliary drive belt tensioner can suffer from premature wear which may cause it to fail. This can lead to loss of steering power assistance and a slight possibility of loss of drive should the drive belt or tensioner invade the cambelt area.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the auxiliary drive belt and tensioner.

    3,134 vehicles

  10. S80, V60, V70, XC70 · reduced braking performance

    14 Sep 2012 · R/2012/104

    Investigations have identified the wiper arm mechanism may chafe against the brake booster vacuum line. If this chafing occurs it could lead to a gradual reduction of the power assisted braking and more effort would need to be applied to the brake pedal than usual to slow the vehicle down. In a worst case the reduction of braking assistance could occur suddenly without any prior warning

    Fix: Inspect the brake booster vacuum line. If it is chafed then it should be replaced and routed correctly. If the line is not chafed it should re-routed to ensure no issues going forward.

    3,394 vehicles

  11. S60, S80, V60, V70, XC60, XC70, XC90 · engine may fail

    24 Apr 2012 · R/2012/056

    There could be a sudden and unexpected failure of the bottom end of the engine because of a non-conformity during production of the connecting rods.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the engine.

    6 vehicles

  12. S60, S80, V60, V70, XC60, XC70 · airbags may not deploy in a collision

    7 Mar 2012 · R/2012/028

    It has been identified that the wiring harness for the SRS system may not have been correctly attached to the front seat frames. It is possible that continued adjustment of the seat position may cause the harness to become detached. If this should occur a warning light will illuminate on the instrument panel warning the driver of a fault with the SRS system. However in this condition the front and side airbags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a collision.

    Fix: Recall all affected vehicles for an inspection of the wiring harnesses and ensure that it is correctly routed and secured. If not then reroute and securing of the wiring harness.

    9,330 vehicles

  13. S80, V70, XC60, XC70 · engine may loose drive and power steering assistance.

    23 Dec 2011 · R/2011/175

    The auxiliary drive belt tensioner may fail. This can lead to loss of steering power assistance and a slight possibility of loss of drive should the drive belt or tensioner invade the cambelt area.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the auxiliary drive belt and tensioner.

    7,302 vehicles · built 1 Jan 2007 to 31 Dec 2009

  14. S80, V70, XC60, XC70 · possibility of loss of drive

    3 Oct 2011 · R/2011/135

    The auxiliary drive belt tensioner may fail. If the tensioner fails it would cause a loss of power steering assistance and possible loss of drive.

    Fix: Replace the auxiliary drive belt tensioner.

    9,936 vehicles · built 1 Jan 2009 to 31 Dec 2010

  15. S80 · fire may occur

    26 Jul 2011 · R/2011/097

    The power steering return line may fail and cause a sudden loss of steering assistance (more input will be required by the driver to steer the vehicle) loss of power steering fluid and although unlikely there is a potential for a fire to occur.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the fluid reservoir return hose and cooling coil.

    82 vehicles

  16. S60, S80, V60, V70 · loss of power steering fluid

    20 Jul 2011 · R/2011/094

    It is possible that the upper power steering return line may become detached which will result in the loss of power steering fluid. This will result in fluid leaking onto the road surface leaking into the engine bay and the driver experiencing heavy steering.

    Fix: Recall the affected vehicles for the replacement of the power steering return line.

    213 vehicles

  17. S80, V70 · loss of power assisted steering and engine may stall.

    5 May 2011 · R/2011/053

    It is possible that water can enter the electric hydraulic power assisted steering pump. This can affect the operation of the pump. The driver will receive warning in the form of warning messages and illumination of warning lights on the dashboard. However the power assistance for the steering can failure but in extreme circumstances the engine can unexpectedly stall.

    Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the power assisted steering pump.

    190 vehicles

  18. S80, V70, XC60, XC70 · engine may run on

    14 Jan 2011 · R/2011/002

    It is possible in certain circumstances for the engine oil level to rise above the maximum level. This situation could lead to engine speed being maintained or possibly increased after the throttle pedal is released. In extreme cases the engine could continue to run after it has been switched off.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to adjust the engine oil level and carry out a software upgrade.

    4,787 vehicles

  19. S60, S80, V60, V70, XC60, XC70 · engine may cut out

    26 Nov 2010 · R/2010/215

    When driving at low speeds a fault within the software calibration of the engine and transmission control modules may lead to a drop in the engine idle speed when braking or releasing the accelerator. In extreme cases this may result in the engine cutting out without warning.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to upgrade the engine/transmission software.

    64 vehicles

  20. S80, V70, XC60, XC70 · engine speed may increase without warning.

    5 Nov 2010 · R/2010/201

    It is possible that the engine oil level may rise above its maximum level due to overfilling and/or dilution by fuel. This may result in the engine speed being maintained or possibly increased after the throttle pedal has been released. In extreme cases it is possible that the engine may continue to run after it has been switched off.

    Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and carry out an Engine Control Module software upgrade and adjust the engine oil. The new ECM upgrade will improve adaption of different blends of fuel and include a dashboard text warning message if the oil level reaches too high a level.

    4,430 vehicles

  21. S80, V60, V70, XC70, XC90 · wheel may become loose

    18 Oct 2010 · R/2010/166

    It has been identified that the standard wheel securing bolts may not have undergone the correct hardening process. This will result in corrosion a noise and/or vibration. If this condition is not rectified there is a possibility that the wheel may become loose and detach.

    Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the standard wheel bolts.

    186 vehicles

  22. S60, S80, V70, XC60, XC70 · airbag may not deploy as intended.

    18 Oct 2010 · R/2010/165

    It is possible that an electrical short circuit within a connector could result in the illumination of the Airbag System Service Required message and Supplemental Restraint System warning lamp on the dashboard. Should this occur the driver's airbag would not deploy as intended if the vehicle is involved in a collision.

    Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check and rework the connector.

    6,844 vehicles

  23. S60, S80, V70, XC60, XC70 · engine may seize

    16 Jul 2010 · R/2010/099

    On effected petrol and diesel engines a spring clamp on the radiator hose connecting it to the water inlet pipe may be insecure. If not rectified the engine may lose coolant overheat seize and suddenly slow the vehicle rapidly to a halt.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to have the radiator hose adequately secured.

    326 vehicles

  24. C30, C70, S40, S80, V50, V70, XC60, XC70, XC90 · gearbox may jam

    11 Jun 2010 · R/2010/071

    A section of the gear shift mechanism may over time become loose and cause the mechanism to become jammed. If this was to occur it might not be possible to change gear or select neutral.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check that the ball joint for the gear selector is properly secured.

    6,961 vehicles

  25. S80, V70 · loss of power steering fluid may cause a fire

    9 Jun 2010 · R/2010/066

    A joint on the high pressure line of the power assisted steering may not have been assembled correctly. This may lead to a leakage of steering fluid into the engine bay. This could result in sudden loss of power assistance but in extreme cases it could result in a localised fire within the engine bay.

    Fix: Recall affected vehicles to check and if required torque the unit up to the correct specification.

    260 vehicles

  26. S80, V70, XC60, XC70 · engine may loose drive and power steering assistance.

    26 May 2010 · R/2010/058

    The auxiliary drive belt tensioner may fail. This can lead to loss of steering power assistance and a slight possibility of loss of drive should the drive belt or tensioner invade the cambelt area.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the auxiliary drive belt and tensioner.

    4,673 vehicles

  27. C30, C70, S40, S80, V50, V70, XC60, XC70 · engine speed may not decrease

    12 May 2010 · R/2010/051

    The engine oil level may rise. This situation may lead to the engine speed being maintained or possibly increased after the throttle pedal is released. In an extreme situation the engine may continue to run after it has been switched off.

    Fix: Recall the affected vehicles and carry out a ECM software upgrade adjust engine oil level and install a decal to confirm oil level to the consumer.

    20,204 vehicles

  28. S80, V70, XC70 · auxiliary drive belt may detach

    1 Apr 2010 · R/2010/033

    The Auxiliary Belt Tensioner may fail resulting in loss of Power Assisted Steeering and loss of Drive

    Fix: Recall affected vehicles to replace the Tensioner and Drive Belt.

    2,297 vehicles

  29. S80, V70, XC60, XC70 · engine may stall

    2 Sep 2009 · R/2009/088

    It has been identified thatthe fuel pump electronic module may not operate as intended. This can result in failure of the fuel pump to start. Should this occur the vehicle may suffer a non start rough running or in the worst case the engine may stall without prior warning. Investigation has shown that it may be possible to drive the vehicle for up to 100 m before the fault manifests itself.

    Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the software within the central electronic module upgraded.

    254 vehicles

  30. S80, V70 · loss of fuel pressure resulting in engine stalling without warning.

    14 Jul 2009 · R/2009/070

    It has been identified that the fuel pump pressure regulator may detach from it's spigot within the fuel pump in conditions of high ambient temperature. Should this occur the vehicle would suffer loss of fuel pressure causing the engine to stall with no warning being given to the driver.

    Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the fuel pump replaced.

    5 vehicles

  31. S80, V70, XC60, XC70 · engine cooling fan may fail

    17 Jun 2009 · R/2009/063

    It has been identified that due to a software issue with the engine cooling fan control module the air conditioning performance may be reduced and the engine coolant temperature may increase. This will result in warning messages being displayed. In extreme cases if the driver does not heed the warnings the engine may fail.

    Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the cooling fan control module replaced.

    4,006 vehicles

  32. C30, C70, S40, S80, V50, V70 · brakes may not perform adequately

    8 May 2009 · R/2009/052

    Brake assistance from the vacuum pressure pump may be reduced under certain cold start conditions. The brakes will still function but more pressure on the pedal will be required than normal.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the non-return valve in the vacuum pump.

    2,004 vehicles

  33. S80, V70, XC70 · wipers may not operate correctly

    22 Apr 2009 · R/2009/046

    The wipers could function without being turned on or not at all because of a software error in the central electronic module.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to upgrade the software in the central electronic module.

    2,216 vehicles

  34. S80, V70, XC70 · short circuit - fire may occur

    13 Feb 2009 · R/2009/017

    It has been identified that on vehicles fitted with a supplementary cabin heater the unit may contain a faulty valve which links the heater to the climate control. The valve in question may become clogged which could lead to poor water drainage and in extreme cases a short circuit. Should sufficient heat be generated by the short circuit a fire behind the instrument panel below the radio may occur.

    Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the subject valve replaced.

    8,255 vehicles

  35. S80, V70 · vehicle may lose power

    20 Jun 2008 · R/2008/089

    It has been identified that due to a problem within the engine ECU (flexi-fuel engines only) the engine torque may be reduced with the attendant possibility that limp home mode may be activated.

    Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the engine ECU software upgraded.

    5 vehicles

  36. S80, XC90 · vehicle may stall

    8 May 2008 · R/2008/074

    It has been identified that; on assembly of the engine mounting bracket incorrect screws may have been used. This can result in breakage of the bracket which can lead to heavy engine vibrations/noise and reduced engine power or stalling due to the limp home mode being activated.

    Fix: Recalled vehicles will the engine mounting bracket screws replaced.

    13 vehicles

  37. S80, V70 · weight information product label incorrectly

    10 Dec 2007 · R/2007/181

    It has been identified that the product label fitted to the inside of the right hand door pillar does not contain any weight information

    Fix: Affected vehicles will have a replacement label affixed.

    1 vehicle

  38. S80, XC90 · engine malfunction light may illuminate

    13 Feb 2007 · R/2007/031

    On petrol engined vehicles it has been found that the PCV (Positive Crank Ventilation) nipple may crack or become loose resulting in an air leak. This could cause a whistling sound and may cause the engine malfunction lamp to operate.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the PCV nipple.

    1,139 vehicles

  39. S80 · short circuit to cabin heater

    20 Oct 2006 · R/2006/196

    The supplementary cabin heater may have a short circuit which normally leads to the battery being 'drained'. In extreme cases fire may occur.

    Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to disable the heater. This is a temporary measure until the root cause has been found and a permanent fix can be developed and applied.

    714 vehicles

  40. S80, XC90 · battery ground cable may short circuit

    21 Nov 2005 · R/2005/168

    The battery positive cable may be in conflict with the starter motor solenoid. If a conflict does develop a short circuit of the battery ground cable will occur. This may result in smoke appearing from under the bonnet or a failure to start with warning lamps illuminated.

    Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the distance between the battery positive cable checked and adjusted if the clearance is less than 4mm.

    911 vehicles

Older Volvo S80 recalls

  1. S60, S80, V70, XC70 · electric cooling fan may overheat23 Dec 2004 · R/2004/216
  2. S60, S80, V70 · possible suspension collapse26 Jan 2004 · R/2004/012
  3. S60, S80, V70, XC70, XC90 · possible fuel leak from injector pipes.7 Jan 2004 · R/2004/007
  4. S60, S80, V70 · possible fuel leak8 Oct 2003 · R/2003/159
  5. 700 SERIES, 800 SERIES, 900 SERIES, S40, S70, S80, S90, V40, V70, V90 · detachable tow bar may work loose10 Jan 2003 · R/2003/008
  6. 700 SERIES, 800 SERIES, 900 SERIES, S40, S70, S80, S90, V40, V70, V90 · detachable tow bar may work loose11 Jul 2002 · R/2002/097
  7. S80, V70 · child restraint anchor bracket concern2 Apr 2001 · R/2001/038
  8. S80, V70 · rear seat belt anchorage concern2 Apr 2001 · R/2001/039
  9. S80 · possibility of an electrical short circuit19 May 1999 · R/1999/040

Other Volvo models

Source: DVSA recalls register, check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk, copy dated 6 Sep 2026, Open Government Licence v3.0. A recall is listed here when DVSA names this model in it; the build dates on each recall say which cars it covers, and a registration check confirms your own.