According to Au7o's analysis of 4,500+ owner reports, the 2005 Volvo XC70 has 3 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are AWD Angle Gear (Transfer Case) Seal Failure and Catastrophic Failure ($200-$3,500 repair) and Aisin AW55-50/51SN Transmission Failure and Solenoid Issues ($500-$5,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is AWD Angle Gear (Transfer Case) Seal Failure and Catastrophic Failure with 1,800 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2001-2016 Volvo XC70, the angle gear (transfer case) on the Haldex AWD system in the XC70 is a notorious failure point. The angle gear transfers power from the transmission output shaft to the rear driveshaft and uses a seal that deteriorates over time, leaking ATF from the transmission into the angle gear housing. If the leak is not caught, the angle gear runs dry and destroys itself internally, creating metal debris that can damage the transmission. The angle gear seal should be checked and the gear fluid replaced every 30,000-40,000 miles as preventive maintenance. This issue affects all Volvo AWD models of this era including S60 AWD, V70 XC, and XC90.
Common Symptoms
ATF fluid dripping from the area between transmission and angle gear
Grinding or clunking noise from center/front of vehicle
Vibration at highway speeds
AWD warning light on dashboard
Transmission fluid level dropping with no visible transmission leak
Whining noise from under the car that increases with speed
How to Fix
Replace the angle gear seal (Volvo part 8636195) at first sign of leaking. Change angle gear fluid (75W-90 GL-5 gear oil) every 30,000-40,000 miles as preventive maintenance. If the angle gear has been damaged internally, complete replacement is needed (Volvo part 36000575 or 31256008 depending on generation). The angle gear replacement requires removing the transmission subframe and is 6-8 hours labor. Aftermarket rebuilt angle gears are available from specialists at significant savings over new OEM units.
High Confidence1,800 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
1,500 owners
On the 2001-2012 Volvo XC70, the Aisin AW55-50SN and AW55-51SN automatic transmissions used in the XC70 develop solenoid failures and internal clutch wear, typically between 100,000-150,000 miles. The transmission solenoids (particularly the SL1 and SL2 linear solenoids) lose calibration and stick, causing harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and slipping. The valve body accumulates wear debris that causes erratic shifting. In severe cases, the forward or reverse clutch packs burn out, requiring a complete rebuild or replacement. Regular fluid changes significantly extend transmission life.
Common Symptoms
Harsh or delayed 1-2 and 2-3 upshifts
Transmission slipping under load
Delayed engagement when shifting into Drive or Reverse
Check engine light with transmission codes (P0740, P0741, P0743)
Flashing arrow indicator on dashboard
Transmission stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode)
How to Fix
Replace transmission solenoids (SL1 part 31256009, SL2 part 31256010) and valve body separator plate as a first step. Perform complete transmission fluid flush with Volvo-approved ATF (JWS 3309). If slipping persists, a transmission rebuild is needed ($3,000-5,000). Rebuilt transmissions from specialists like IPD or Level 10 are available. Preventive maintenance: change transmission fluid every 40,000 miles despite Volvo's 'lifetime fill' recommendation.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
early-transmission fluid service after diagnosis and exact gearbox match Fitment/availability: Confirmed AW55/JWS 3309 XC70 branch only; verify VIN, gearbox code and required quantity Fitment/availability: In stock with Add to Cart and B…
Genuine Volvo 31256774 JWS 3324/AW-1 fluid, one liter
later-transmission fluid service after the exact fluid branch is confirmed Fitment/availability: Confirmed later Gen2 TF-80SC AW-1/JWS 3324 XC70 branch; verify VIN, chassis split, gearbox and quantity and do not mix with JWS 3309 Fitment…
High Confidence1,500 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
1,200 owners
On the 2003-2016 Volvo XC70, the turbocharger on the XC70 2.5T (B5254T2) and T6 (B6304T4) engines develops wastegate rattle and eventual turbo failure. The wastegate actuator rod and pivot bushing wear, causing a rattling sound on cold start and under light boost. The turbo bearings also fail from oil coking (oil baked onto the bearing surface from heat-soak after shut-off) and PCV-related oil supply issues. The P2 platform XC70 (2001-2007) uses a Mitsubishi TD04 turbo, while the P3 platform (2008-2016) uses a Borg Warner BV50 or TD04L. Both are prone to failure with similar symptoms.
Common Symptoms
Rattling noise from turbo area on cold start
Rattling under light acceleration that disappears at full boost
Blue smoke from exhaust under acceleration
Loss of boost pressure
Check engine light with overboost or underboost codes
Oil in intercooler piping
How to Fix
For wastegate rattle only, the wastegate actuator can be replaced or adjusted without replacing the entire turbo (Volvo part 36012387 for actuator on P3 models). For turbo bearing failure, replace the complete turbo assembly (Volvo part 36002369 for P2, 36012488 for P3). Replace oil feed and return lines. Fix PCV system if contributing to oil starvation. Use quality synthetic oil and let engine idle 30 seconds before shutdown after hard driving to prevent oil coking.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Mitsubishi 36002369KT early B5254T2 turbocharger replacement kit
replace a confirmed internally failed early B5254T2 turbo with the required installation parts and fluids Fitment/availability: Early Volvo XC70 B5254T2 application whose VIN, turbo tag and engine serial match FCP Euro's early 36002369 k…
Mitsubishi 36002369KT1 late B5254T2 turbocharger replacement kit
replace a confirmed internally failed late B5254T2 turbo with its production-matched installation kit Fitment/availability: Late Volvo XC70 B5254T2 application whose VIN, turbo tag and engine serial match FCP Euro's late 36002369 kit; ex…
replace a diagnosed internally failed T6 K16 turbo using the engine-specific complete kit Fitment/availability: P3 Volvo XC70 T6 B6304T4 application using the BorgWarner K16/36002568 family after VIN and installed-tag confirmation; exclu…
High Confidence1,200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
NHTSA Recalls5 recalls
SEAT BELTS:FRONT
Volvo Cars of N.A., LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2008-2016 V70 and XC70, 2007-2016 S80, 2011-2018 S60 and V60, 2016-2018 S60 Cross Country, 2014-2020 S60L, 2009-2015 S80L, 2009-2016 XC60 and 2015-2018 V60 Cross Country vehicles. The flexible steel cable that connects the seat belt to the front outboard seating positions may fatigue over time, causing the seat belt to not secure the occupant in the event of a crash.
Campaign #20V37800030/06/2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Volvo is recalling certain model year 2014 S60, S80, XC60 and XC70 vehicles equipped with keyless ignition. In the affected vehicles, the Central Electronic Module (CEM) will not perform as intended. As a result, the front windshield wipers might run continuously when the ignition is on. Also, the turn signals, high beams, and headlight switch might not work.
Campaign #13V37700021/08/2013
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.
Campaign #15V55500002/09/2015
TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
Volvo is recalling certain model year 2013 S80 and XC70 vehicles. A software error within the Central Electronic Module (CEM) will result in the "TPMS Service Required" message appearing after approximately 15 minutes of accumulated driving over 25 mph. The error will prevent the Tire Pressure Monitoring System from warning the driver that a tire needs air. Thus, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring System."
Campaign #12V41500028/08/2012
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 S60, XC60, S80 AND XC70 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 16, 2011, THROUGH OCTOBER 6, 2011. IN THESE VEHICLES, THE WIRE HARNESS UNDER THE FRONT SEATS MAY HAVE NOT BEEN ATTACHED PROPERLY TO THE SEAT FRAME. AS A RESULT, WHEN THE SEATS ARE MOVED TO ADJUST THE SEATING POSITION, THE WIRE HARNESS MAY GET PULLED, CAUSING IT TO DISCONNECT.
Campaign #12V07500028/02/2012
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
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According to Au7o's analysis of 4,500+ owner reports, the 2005 Volvo XC70 has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: AWD Angle Gear (Transfer Case) Seal Failure and Catastrophic Failure, Aisin AW55-50/51SN Transmission Failure and Solenoid Issues, Turbocharger Failure and Wastegate Rattle. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Volvo XC70 reliable?
The 2005 Volvo XC70 has 3 known issues documented across 4,500+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: AWD Angle Gear (Transfer Case) Seal Failure and Catastrophic Failure and Aisin AW55-50/51SN Transmission Failure and Solenoid Issues. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Volvo XC70 problems?
Repair costs for known Volvo XC70 issues range from $200 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, AWD Angle Gear (Transfer Case) Seal Failure and Catastrophic Failure, typically costs $200-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2001-2016 Volvo XC70 AWD Angle Gear (Transfer Case) Seal Failure and Catastrophic Failure?
The angle gear (transfer case) on the Haldex AWD system in the XC70 is a notorious failure point. The angle gear transfers power from the transmission output shaft to the rear driveshaft and uses a seal that deteriorates over time, leaking ATF from the transmission into the angle… Repairs typically run $200-$3,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2001-2012 Volvo XC70 Aisin AW55-50/51SN Transmission Failure and Solenoid Issues?
The Aisin AW55-50SN and AW55-51SN automatic transmissions used in the XC70 develop solenoid failures and internal clutch wear, typically between 100,000-150,000 miles. The transmission solenoids (particularly the SL1 and SL2 linear solenoids) lose calibration and stick, causing h… Repairs typically run $500-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2003-2016 Volvo XC70 Turbocharger Failure and Wastegate Rattle?
The turbocharger on the XC70 2.5T (B5254T2) and T6 (B6304T4) engines develops wastegate rattle and eventual turbo failure. The wastegate actuator rod and pivot bushing wear, causing a rattling sound on cold start and under light boost. The turbo bearings also fail from oil coking… Repairs typically run $300-$3,000. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
