Are Volvos Expensive to Repair? [Volvo Repair Costs]

If you’re thinking about buying a Volvo, or any car for that matter, you should consider how much it will cost to fix it. Volvos are well-known for their excellent safety rating, but what about the cost of their repair? Are Volvos expensive to repair?

Compared to other cars, Volvos are generally more expensive to repair. Volvos are categorized as luxury vehicles, which means that their maintenance and parts are more expensive. For damaged parts, Volvo provides a lifetime warranty.

There are various strategies to cut down on Volvo repair costs.

Read on to learn more about Volvo repairs and how you can save money on them.

are volvos expensive to repair

Volvo Repair Costs – Are Volvos Expensive to Repair?

In comparison to other cars, Volvos are often more expensive to repair. Because Volvos are considered luxury vehicles, their maintenance and parts are more costly.

Volvos are premium cars in the mid-range category. Even its low-trim models have high-end features that are standard in luxury cars. They also improve your driving experience in general. The materials utilized in the manufacturing of these cars are never compromised, resulting in a consistently high-quality result.

Branded luxury cars have a higher resale value. Luxury vehicles, like Volvos, make a statement when viewed as a whole.

These high-end vehicles, however, come at a high cost. Parts for these vehicles are often more expensive than those for standard Toyotas or Hondas. Also, Volvos have car parts that require special and pricey software.

For these reasons, Volvos are costly to repair. For any defective parts, the Swedish manufacturer offers the Volvo Lifetime Replacement Parts and Labor Warranty.

To learn more about the cost to repair Volvos, see the article on roadsumo.com: Are Volvos Expensive to Repair? [Volvo Repair Costs]

Specific Volvo Parts and Their Estimated Costs

Here are some estimated costs for different Volvo models to give you an idea of how much Volvo repairs cost:

2011 Volvo C30 Strut Assembly (Front Replacement)US$1,690
2014 Volvo XC60 Drive Belt Tensioner ReplacementUS$500
1984 Volvo 760 Timing Belt ReplacementUS$1,250
2009 Volvo XC90 Differential / Gear Oil (Rear Replacement)US$150
2007 Volvo S40 Exterior Door Handle (Driver Side Front Replacement)US$600
1999 Volvo Crankshaft Seal ReplacementUS$1,200
2015 Volvo V60 Cross Country Car Radiator Repair/ReplacementUS$2,000
2019 Volvo XC40 Change OilUS$250
2020 Volvo XC40 Car Battery ReplacementUS$350
2018 Volvo S90 Brake Caliper (Passenger Side Front Replacement)US$900

So, as you can see, the estimated cost of a Volvo repair is quite expensive. It would be best to save some monthly budget for these repairs. 

Factors Affecting the Cost of Volvo Repairs

Volvos are well-known for their durability, practicality, and safety. It has been designated as a luxury vehicle, and as previously mentioned, luxury vehicles are more costly to repair and maintain. The following factors affect the maintenance and repairs of your Volvo:

1. Mileage of the Vehicle

It’s a well-known fact that the more you use a car, whether it is a luxury vehicle or not, the faster it depreciates. Your car will begin to show signs of wear and tear after 100,000 miles. Major repairs will also be pricey.

The surest bet to avoid major, costly repairs is to have your Volvo serviced on a regular basis and follow the recommendations of your Volvo mechanic. The goal is to keep your Volvo in good working condition at all times in order to avoid major repairs.

2. Regular Car Care

Regular maintenance checks and tasks are required for your Volvo. Oil changes, filter replacements, brake pad changes, tune-ups, and tire rotations are just a few of the routine maintenance that your car needs. The more you regularly do these things, the fewer major and costly repairs you’ll need.

It’s crucial to perform these checks regularly and on schedule. Avoid waiting for the last minute to change them. You’re more likely to end up with expensive repairs if you skip these maintenance tasks.

What Are the Costs of These Regular Maintenance Tasks?

Are Volvos expensive to repair? They’ll cost you $75 to $100 on average. It’s a good idea to set aside this amount each month for maintenance and repairs. Yes, there will be months when you don’t spend any money on your Volvo. However, there will be months when you go over that amount. To avoid costly repairs, keep your Volvo well-maintained.

Tips to Avoid Expensive Volvo Repairs

The following are a few tips for reducing Volvo repair costs:

1. Check Fluids Regularly

When you check your fluids regularly, you can minimize transmission issues. And when you start noticing hard shifts, get a maintenance check done straight away. Continuing to drive your vehicle with hard shifts will cause more transmission damage. So, any transmission or clutch problems should not be overlooked. Make sure you check and change the transmission fluid regularly as well.

2. Have Regular Oil Changes

Volvo features a one-of-a-kind flame trap system. It’s a more advanced version of the regular PCV system found in most vehicles. By separating oil droplets from crankcase vapors, the flame trap system allows oil to drain back to the oil pan.

Although this is a more sophisticated system, it has the potential to clog or leak. It can also harm the engine. Oil changes should be performed regularly to avoid clogs and leaks. Allow authorized Volvo mechanics to inspect your vehicle for routine maintenance.

3. Change the Headlights

Many Volvo customers have expressed concern about their headlights burning out. Bulb replacements do not necessitate the services of a mechanic because it’s possible to do it at home. Observe whether the same headlight bulb continues to burn out. If it does, have the electrical system checked by a Volvo mechanic.

are volvo cars expensive to fix

Things to Check on Your Volvo to Avoid Major Repairs

  • Change air filter
  • Change oil, fluids, and filter
  • Lubricate chassis and door locks, including all hinges
  • Replace the fuel filter
  • Flush the coolant, auto transmission fluid, and brake fluid
  • Check your spark plugs, wires, caps, and rotors regularly (or replace them if needed)
  • Check and replace the timing belt (as needed)
  • Check your radiator (a radiator lasts for an average of 8 years)
  • Make sure your water pump isn’t leaking
  • Check brake pads, rotor thickness, and lubricate the caliper
  • Check suspension bushings
  • Rotate tires
  • Clean battery cables

To keep your Volvo functioning properly, you’ll need to check most of these things regularly. Remember that a well-maintained vehicle will require fewer and less expensive repairs.

So, are Volvo repairs pricey? Is it expensive to repair or maintain a Volvo? Compared to other cars, Volvos are generally more expensive to fix. This is due to the fact that Volvos are considered luxury vehicles; hence their parts are more expensive.

Now, let us look at some common Volvo issues that may require repair in the future.

What Are the Common Volvo Problems?

1. Hard Shifting and Transmission Issues

If your Volvo is less than 5 years old, these issues are unlikely to show up.  However, after five years of use, consumers have reported hard shifting. Have your unit regularly serviced to prevent this problem. It’s also a good idea to change your transmission fluid on a regular basis.

2. Oil Leaking

This is a problem that affects all cars, not just Volvos. Leaking of oil often comes from the oil cap. Volvo’s flame trap system is prone to clogging and leaking too. The engine will run smoothly if the system is checked and cleaned regularly.

3. Headlights & Tail Light Burn Out

This is a problem that affects a lot of vehicles. It’s a good idea to keep spare lights in your trunk so you can replace them if they burn out.

4. Rough Idling Issue

This issue could be due to a problem with your engine’s top mount. To avoid costly repairs, have all of your motor mounts checked regularly.

5. Problems in Air-conditioning Temperature

Your Volvo’s air conditioning system may occasionally fail and produce warm air instead of cool air. Check your compressor regularly to ensure that your air conditioning is always working properly. Request a technician to inspect it to assure that it is not taking power from the battery while not in use.

cost of volvo repairs

Volvo Servicing and Maintenance at an Authorized Volvo Dealer

Service and maintenance for Volvo cars are crucial. The manufacturer usually establishes a maintenance schedule. To ensure that your car functions well, you’ll need to stick to the schedule.

There are numerous advantages to having your car serviced regularly. The first is safety. You’ll have fewer mechanical troubles, which means your car won’t break down while you’re driving. This won’t put you and your passengers in danger.

Another reason is to keep your Volvo’s value. Cars depreciate their value over time. When it comes to selling your Volvo, if you have kept it well-maintained, you will be able to get a higher price. Buyers will be pleased to learn that you have kept your Volvo in good condition.

Take your Volvo to authorized Volvo service centers or repair shops for maintenance and servicing as much as possible. This reduces the chances of bad or poor servicing. You can also get genuine Volvo parts for your vehicle. Although you can get less expensive parts somewhere else, you may be sacrificing quality. This will cause greater harm in the long run.

Scheduled Maintenance of Volvos

Volvo has a free scheduled maintenance package with every vehicle. So for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first, the maintenance program will cover three maintenance services. All of these services are also available for no cost.

Is it expensive to maintain a Volvo? After your three complimentary services, you can purchase a Prepaid Maintenance Plan from the company. This package provides you with a 20% discount on maintenance. Plans will vary depending on the model year of your Volvo, the number of years you want it covered for, and your car’s mileage.

Volvo Lifetime Replacement Parts and Labor Warranty [Coverage]

On June 1, 2015, Volvo introduced the Volvo Lifetime Replacement Parts and Labor Warranty. It was intended to make your Volvo experience even better. A consumer who purchases a certified Volvo part from an authorized Volvo dealer receives the warranty.

Any car will have regular wear and tear, and parts will need to be replaced. However, the Volvo Lifetime Replacement Parts and Labor Warranty don’t include parts that are subject to natural wear and tear in everyday driving. Other parts, on the other hand, will be replaced with special software.

The following replacements are not covered by the Volvo Lifetime Replacement Parts and Labor Warranty:

  • Car batteries
  • Keyless entry batteries
  • Timing belts
  • Spark plugs
  • Brake pads
  • Filters
  • Cutch lining
  • Floor mats
  • Seat upholstery or seat covers
  • Tires

The warranty is non-transferable and can only be used at Volvo parts authorized dealers. Third-party buyers, such as non-authorized Volvo repair and body shops, cannot use it. Also, it’s not valid for parts purchased and installed or replaced at a non-authorized Volvo dealer. The warranty is valid for two years starting from the date of purchase. It can be used to replace defective parts.

The Volvo Lifetime Replacement for Parts and Labor warranty helps you save money on maintenance and repairs.

Conclusion – Are Volvo Cars Expensive to Repair?

Compared to many other vehicles, Volvos are relatively expensive to fix or repair. Volvos are luxury vehicles, and luxury vehicles are often more expensive to maintain and repair. Their parts, for example, are more expensive than those for Hondas and Toyotas. However, there are a number of ways to help reduce expensive repair costs.

Volvos have been on the market since 1927 and have since become a luxury vehicle brand. They are regarded for having the greatest safety features in cars. Volvos are therefore more expensive to maintain and repair than non-luxury vehicles.

Their parts are also more pricey than those found in other vehicles. However, there are many ways for you to avoid expensive repairs. Regular servicing and maintenance at authorized Volvo repair shops or Volvo dealerships is the key for a well-running Volvo.