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2013 Volvo XC70 Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2013 Volvo XC70 Report

Overall Score

6.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2013 Volvo XC70 has a 'Below Average' reliability rating, largely due to concerns with front seat belt anchor cable fatigue.
  • Inspect the windshield seals for leaks, as this is the most common complaint, impacting visibility.
  • The airbag system has had critical failures reported, including non-deployment and inadvertent deployment.
  • Confirm that all 4 recalls, particularly those concerning seat belts and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), have been properly addressed.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Volvo XC70

The 2013 Volvo XC70 is a capable all-wheel-drive wagon that blends practicality with a premium feel. It offers a comfortable and secure driving experience, powered by a 3.0L 6-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined. However, its 'Below Average' reliability verdict and a notable number of recalls and complaints warrant careful consideration for used car buyers. Potential repair costs associated with its 4 recalls and 162 TSBs should be factored into ownership.

Critical Failure Risk

The windshield seals on the P3 platform, including the 2013 XC70, are prone to degradation. This can lead to water ingress into the cabin, affecting electronics and causing mold growth. Visibility can also be compromised by water pooling or fogging.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

7
Visibility/Wiper3
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
20
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
23
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.0/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing all-wheel-drive capability and a comfortable, wagon-like utility.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers seeking minimal repair costs and maximum long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Volvo XC70 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Volvo XC70.

  • 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
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
20

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

Most Common Issues

1. Visibility

Most reported

Usage: 3 reports

2. Steering

Usage: 1 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 - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 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 XC70 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Volvo XC70 is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 7.

How practical is the 2013 Volvo XC70 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Volvo XC70?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Volvo XC70 is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Volvo XC70?▾

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 - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Windshield Seals (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $800).

What engine is in the 2013 Volvo XC70?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.0.

What transmission does the 2013 Volvo XC70 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Volvo XC70, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Volvo XC70?▾

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Volvo XC70?▾

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

What body style is the 2013 Volvo XC70?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Volvo XC70, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Volvo XC70 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Volvo XC70, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2013 Volvo XC70?▾

Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (3 reports, 42.9% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Volvo XC70?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Volvo XC70?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Audi A4 allroad and 2013 Subaru Outback.

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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