2016 Volvo S60 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2016 Volvo S60
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the seat belts:front:buckle assembly.
- Outscores the 2015 Volvo S60 by 6 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (drive-e 2.0l) (moderate severity).
Should You Buy the 2016 Volvo S60?
The 2016 Volvo S60 stands as one of the safest and most comfortable used compact luxury sedans you can acquire, offering robust engineering, especially in its AWD variants. While generally very reliable, buyers must be aware of specific quirks related to the newer Drive-E powertrains and the Sensus infotainment system to ensure a smooth ownership experience. It's a smart purchase if you prioritize safety and comfort above all else, provided due diligence is performed.
The 2016 Volvo S60 is a highly recommendable used luxury sedan, particularly if you prioritize safety, comfort, and a solid build. While the newer Drive-E engines have a couple of specific issues to watch for, the overall platform is robust. With a thorough pre-purchase inspection and diligent maintenance, it promis…
Best Model Years
2014-2015 (primarily older engines), 2016-2018 (AWD models with older engines)
Years to Avoid
Early 2014-2015 FWD models with first-generation Drive-E engines if PCV/oil consumption TSBs were not addressed.
Biggest Strengths
- Exceptional safety features and crashworthiness
- Robust build quality and durable chassis components
- Comfortable and refined driving experience
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2016 Volvo S60, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The newer Drive-E 2.0L engines (found in FWD T5 and T6 models) can experience issues with the PCV system diaphragm, leading to excessive oil consumption or oil leaks. Early models had TSBs for specific issues.
The Sensus infotainment system, while functional, can be prone to freezing, lagging, or displaying glitches. Other electrical issues like sensor failures (parking assist, ABS) or erratic warning lights are also reported.
Across various engine types, components like the water pump, thermostat housing, or radiator hoses can fail prematurely, leading to coolant leaks or overheating if not addressed.
2016 Volvo S60 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2016 Volvo S60 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
This mileage typically reflects a well-maintained vehicle still under warranty or recently out. Focus on confirming all scheduled maintenance has been completed.
Maintenance Zone
Many major services fall around this mileage, including spark plugs and possibly transmission fluid for the 8-speed. This is where early Drive-E engine PCV issues might start to manifest.
Elevated Risk Zone
Wear items in the suspension and cooling system become more prevalent. Proactive replacement of hoses and belts is advisable.
High Risk Zone
At this point, you're looking at a vehicle that will demand more significant component replacements. Turbocharger health, engine mounts, and transmission integrity become key considerations.
2016 Volvo S60 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2016 Volvo S60 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$600-800
Moderate Repairs
$800-1,800 occasionally for issues like PCV or control arms
How Long Does the 2016 Volvo S60 Last?
Focus on S60s with robust service records and aim for those under 100,000 miles for optimal long-term value. Higher mileage units require a more thorough inspection and budgeting for common wear items.
What 2016 Volvo S60 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Unparalleled safety features provide peace of mind for families and commuters.
- Exceptional seat comfort makes long drives a pleasure.
- Refined ride quality effectively smooths out road imperfections.
- High-quality interior materials feel premium and durable.
Common Frustrations
- Sensus infotainment system can be frustratingly slow or glitchy.
- Rear seat legroom is somewhat cramped compared to rivals.
- Fuel economy for the older 5-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines is mediocre.
- Dealership service and parts can be more expensive than mainstream brands.
Who Should Buy the 2016 Volvo S60?
Best For
- Safety-conscious families or individuals
- Commuters seeking a comfortable and quiet ride
- Buyers looking for a refined European luxury experience on a budget
Not Ideal For
- Budget-constrained buyers who avoid premium maintenance costs
- Performance enthusiasts seeking razor-sharp handling and raw power
How the 2016 Volvo S60 Compares to Rivals
The S60 offers a compelling blend of European luxury, robust safety, and generally solid reliability that often outshines its German counterparts in terms of major repair frequency, though it can't quite match the bulletproof reputation of top-tier Japanese luxury brands for l…
More Reliable Than
- BMW 3-Series (F30 generation) for overall long-term reliability and interior durability
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W205 generation) for comfort-oriented ride and safety tech
- Audi A4 (B8.5 generation) for lower complexity and potentially fewer costly engine issues
Comparable To
- Acura TLX for overall value and safety features
- Lexus IS for build quality, though not quite as maintenance-free
NHTSA Recalls
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 XC90, S90, XC60, V60 Cross Country, V60, S60 Cross Country, S60, and S60 Inscription vehicles manufactured February 16, 2015, to August 22, 2016. On the affected vehicles, the front passenger seat belt buckle attaching stud may loosen, allowing the buckle to separate from the seat belt bracket. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages" and number 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Volvo Cars of North America, LLC. (Volvo) is recalling certain model year 2016 Volvo S60, V60, V60CC, XC60, XC70, and S80 vehicles manufactured April 8, 2015 to August 19, 2015. In certain driving conditions when using the automatic engine stop/start function, the starter motor fuse may blow, preventing the car from restarting when necessary.
What breaks on the 2016 Volvo S60?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 2016 Volvo S60? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Volvo S60 by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Volvo S60. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2016 Volvo S60
Parts and accessories matched to your 2016 Volvo S60
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Just bought a 2016 Volvo S60? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Volvo S60's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Volvo S60
Most Reliable Cars to Buy Used (Top 10 Ranked)
Get our expert-ranked list of the 10 most reliable used cars you can buy today, saving money and avoiding future headaches with smart choices.
Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner: Which Lasts Longer?
Get the definitive answer: Which truly lasts longer, the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner? Our comparison reveals their long-term durability.
Toyota Tacoma vs Chevy Colorado: Reliability Compared
Explore a head-to-head reliability comparison of the Toyota Tacoma vs. Chevy Colorado. Discover which truck truly stands out for long-term dependability.