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2018 Volvo S60 Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2018 Volvo S60 Report

Overall Score

7.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Achieves a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, indicating excellent crash protection.
  • The 2.0L, 4-cylinder engine with AWD provides a balanced blend of performance and efficiency, rated at 22 MPG combined.
  • An 'Average' reliability verdict suggests potential for issues, particularly with the brake booster and engine control module (ECM).
  • A single recall concerning the front seat belt anchor cable requires confirmation of completion.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Volvo S60

The 2018 Volvo S60 presents a compelling option for used car buyers seeking Scandinavian design and robust safety. It earned top marks in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a perfect 5-star overall rating. Under the hood, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive delivers adequate performance with a combined EPA rating of 22 MPG. However, its 'Average' reliability verdict, influenced by a notable TSB count and specific component failures like brake boosters and ECMs, means a thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial.

Critical Failure Risk

Premature failure of the brake booster can lead to a significantly harder brake pedal and reduced braking effectiveness. This issue was reported at a very low mileage (10,500 miles) in NHTSA complaints.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

5
Service Brakes1
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
22
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.9/ 10

Practicality

4.6/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and small boot.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing safety and a premium cabin experience on a used car budget.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair risks.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Volvo S60 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Volvo S60.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
22

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Most Common Issues

1. Braking System

Most reported

Usage: 1 reports

2. Visibility

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

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

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 (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Volvo S60 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Volvo S60 is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 5.

How practical is the 2018 Volvo S60 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.6/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and small boot. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 339 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Volvo S60?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Volvo S60 is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 4.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Volvo S60?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Booster (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Volvo S60?▾

Base MSRP is $44,350.

What engine is in the 2018 Volvo S60?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2018 Volvo S60 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Volvo S60, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2018 S60 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Volvo S60?▾

EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Volvo S60?▾

12 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Volvo S60?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Volvo S60, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Volvo S60?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Volvo S60, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Volvo S60 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Volvo S60, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Volvo S60?▾

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

What are the most common service brakes problems on the 2018 Volvo S60?▾

Top complaint category: service brakes (1 reports, 20% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Volvo S60?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Volvo S60?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Audi A4 and 2018 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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