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2013 Volvo S60 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2013 Volvo S60 Report

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The most significant ownership concern is excessive engine oil consumption, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure and costly repairs.
  • Verify that all 4 recalls have been addressed, particularly those concerning the SRS control module and door latches.
  • Expect below-average reliability; this model requires diligent pre-purchase inspection and ongoing maintenance.
  • The engine is the most frequent complaint area, accounting for over 34% of issues reported.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Volvo S60

The 2013 Volvo S60 offers a blend of Scandinavian design and robust safety, but its used market appeal is tempered by notable reliability concerns. While it boasts a 5-star NHTSA safety rating across the board and a capable All-Wheel Drive system, the high volume of engine-related complaints, particularly concerning oil consumption, demands serious consideration. With 105 complaints logged and 4 recalls issued, potential buyers must be aware of the risks, especially regarding powertrain longevity and potential repair costs.

Critical Failure Risk

Excessive oil consumption without warning lights leading to engine damage, including seized engines, bent valves, and cylinder block issues. This is a significant concern impacting overall reliability.

Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$8,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

105
Engine36
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
25
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.6/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Mechanically inclined buyers willing to perform frequent oil level checks and proactive maintenance.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal unexpected repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Volvo S60 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Volvo S60.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
21

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See the full 2013 Volvo S60 buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 36 reports

2. Airbags

Usage: 7 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Volvo S60 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Volvo S60 is 7.6/10. Reliability score is 7.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 105.

How practical is the 2013 Volvo S60 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Volvo S60?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Volvo S60 is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Volvo S60?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (Oil Consumption Related) (typical at 85,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,000 • Max: $8,000+).

What engine is in the 2013 Volvo S60?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.0.

What transmission does the 2013 Volvo S60 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Volvo S60, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Volvo S60?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Volvo S60?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2013 Volvo S60?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Volvo S60, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Volvo S60 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Volvo S60, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Volvo S60?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2013 Volvo S60?▾

Top complaint category: engine (36 reports, 34.3% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Volvo S60?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Volvo S60?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Audi A4 and 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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