Driving a 2013 Volvo S60 T5 offers a blend of Scandinavian luxury, athletic handling, and turbocharged performance that few competitors in the mid-size sedan segment could match. This specific model year represents the peak of the second-generation S60's lifecycle, featuring the advanced 2.5-liter inline-five engine that Volvo had refined over many years. While the vehicle is engineered to a high standard, ownership over the last decade has revealed specific 2013 Volvo S60 T5 problems that potential buyers should evaluate carefully before committing to purchase.
Overview of the 2013 Model Year
The 2013 model year sits comfortably in the middle of the second-generation S60's production run, which spanned from 2007 to 2016. By this point, Volvo had addressed many of the initial teething issues found in the first generation, resulting in a more mature and reliable platform. The T5 variant, in particular, was praised for its responsive 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering a spirited driving experience without sacrificing the brand's signature comfort. Understanding the common 2013 Volvo S60 T5 issues requires looking at the specific components that were known to wear out or fail under certain conditions.
Engine and Transmission Concerns
While the Volvo 2.5T engine is robust, specific 2013 Volvo S60 T5 problems are centered around the timing belt tensioner and the auxiliary belt idler pulley. The timing belt system on these engines is a critical component, and a failure can lead to severe internal engine damage, often requiring a complete valve job or engine replacement. Owners have reported instances where the tensioner failed prematurely, leading to noise or, in worst-case scenarios, belt slippage. Additionally, the auxiliary belt that drives the power steering pump and alternator can wear out, leading to a high-pitched squealing noise that indicates imminent failure.
Timing belt tensioner wear leading to noise or failure.
Premature wear of the auxiliary belt idler pulley.
Potential for catastrophic engine damage if the timing belt fails.
Electrical and Infotainment System Glitches
As with many vehicles from the early 2010s, the 2013 Volvo S60 is susceptible to specific electrical gremlins that manifest over time. One of the more common complaints involves the infotainment system, where the radio head unit begins to experience screen freezes or complete system lockups. This often requires a trip to the dealer for a software update or, in some cases, a complete replacement of the unit. Furthermore, owners have noted issues with window regulators and power seat adjustments, where one or more windows or seats stop responding due to a faulty control module or wiring harness corrosion.
Interior Trim and Material Wear
Despite its premium positioning, the interior of the 2013 S60 T5 suffers from a specific design flaw related to the center console trim. Several owners have reported that the matte black plastic cover on the shifter assembly begins to fade or develop a cloudy, hazy appearance over time, even with minimal sun exposure. This is largely considered a cosmetic issue, but it can significantly detract from the overall perceived quality of the cabin. In addition, the leather upholstery, while luxurious, requires regular conditioning to prevent cracking and drying, which can become an ongoing maintenance task rather than a one-time fix.
