Segment:
Premium Compact Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Individuals and families seeking a blend of safety, comfort, performance, and Scandinavian design.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Acura TL, Lexus IS.
Volvo Philosophy:
Emphasis on safety, build quality, and a distinct Scandinavian aesthetic.
Design Era:
Represents Volvo's 'modern' design language from the early 2000s, moving away from more boxy predecessors.
Powertrain Options:
Offered with robust inline-five-cylinder engines, known for their smooth operation and durability.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust systems. Transmission operation, fluid types, and basic care.
Chassis:
Braking system, steering system, suspension components, wheel and tire information.
Electrical:
Lighting systems, instrument cluster, dashboard warning lights, battery, fuses, basic electrical component identification.
Body & Interior:
Door locks, windows, seats, climate control, audio system, interior lighting, safety belts, child restraint systems.
Instrumentation:
Gauges, indicators, warning lights, trip computer functions.
Driver Controls:
Steering wheel controls, gear selector, parking brake, cruise control, hazard lights.
Convenience Features:
Power mirrors, power seats, sunroof operation, remote keyless entry, alarm system.
Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, driving techniques, parking, use of various vehicle features.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement.
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting the vehicle, changing a flat tire, using the spare tire, emergency towing instructions.
Troubleshooting:
Interpretation of dashboard warning lights, basic diagnosis of common issues (e.g., battery not charging, engine not starting).
Depth:
Designed for the owner to understand vehicle operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or complex repair instructions found in a service manual.
Engine Code Options:
B5244S (2.4L), B5244S2 (2.4L), B5244S4 (2.5L Turbo - T5), B5254T2 (2.5L Turbo - T5)
Displacement 2.4L Naturally Aspirated:
2435 cc
Horsepower 2.4L Naturally Aspirated:
168 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2.4L Naturally Aspirated:
170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Displacement 2.5L Turbocharged:
2521 cc
Horsepower 2.5L Turbocharged:
217 hp @ 5000 rpm (T5, approx.)
Torque 2.5L Turbocharged:
236 lb-ft @ 1800-4500 rpm (T5, approx.)
Induction:
Naturally Aspirated (2.4L), Turbocharged (2.5L T5)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane recommended for T5)
Configuration:
Inline 5-Cylinder
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (some markets/models)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Geartronic Automatic (AW55-50SN)
Geartronic:
Driver-selectable manual shifting mode
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Volvo Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), e.g., JWS 3309 (Dexron III/Mercon compatible, but specific Volvo fluid recommended)
Passenger Volume:
93.5 cubic feet (approx.)
Trunk Volume:
14.5 cubic feet (approx.)
Curb Weight:
3400 - 3700 lbs (depending on configuration)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x108
Typical Tire Size:
215/55R16, 215/50R17, 235/45R17 (depending on trim/options)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5-Star
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard (TRACS)
Stability Control:
Optional (DSTC - Dynamic Stability and Traction Control)
Airbags Front:
Dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Standard front-seat mounted side airbags
Airbags Curtain:
Optional Inflatable Curtain (IC) airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pre-tensioners for all seating positions, WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) for front seats.
Audio System:
Standard Volvo audio system with CD player. Optional premium sound systems (e.g., Dynaudio) available.
Display:
Center console-mounted display for climate control, audio, and trip computer information.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking assist sensors were optional.
Aux Input:
Typically not standard; may require aftermarket adapter for auxiliary audio input.
Bluetooth:
Not typically available on this model year; Bluetooth hands-free systems were rare.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific conditions and oil type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For naturally aspirated 2.4L engines: Approximately every 105,000 miles or 7 years. For 2.5L Turbo (T5) engines: Timing belt is often a chain or has longer intervals, but consult manual/service records. **Critical component; failure can cause severe engine damage.**
Cabin Air Filter:
Check and replace annually or every 15,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Typically around 60,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4. Viscosity: 0W-30 or 5W-30 (check manual for exact recommendations, especially for turbocharged models).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.8 US quarts (5.5 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Volvo Long Life Coolant (G48/G12 equivalent, ethylene glycol-based, blue/green color).
Power Steering Fluid:
Volvo Power Steering Fluid (or Dexron III/Mercon compatible if specified).
Pcv System:
Clogged Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system can lead to oil leaks, rough idle, and sludge buildup. Regular inspection and cleaning/replacement are advised.
ABS Module:
ABS control modules can be prone to failure, leading to ABS and SRS warning lights. Repair or replacement is often necessary.
Sway Bar Links:
Worn front sway bar links are common and can cause clunking noises over bumps.
Ignition Coils:
Individual ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires and rough running.
Volvo Legacy:
Founded in 1927, Volvo is renowned for its pioneering efforts in automotive safety, including the invention of the three-point seat belt.
S60 Introduction:
The first generation Volvo S60 was introduced in late 2000 for the 2001 model year, replacing the S70.
2003 Model Year Updates:
The 2003 model year saw minor updates, including potential new exterior paint colors and interior trim options. The core platform and powertrains remained largely consistent with previous years.
Platform:
P2 platform, shared with other Volvo models like the S80, V70, XC70, and XC90.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing plant in Torslanda, Sweden. Also produced in Belgium and Canada.