2016 Volvo S60 Safety Report
2016 Volvo S60 boasts 5-star safety ratings but faces multiple recalls and engine-related complaints.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Volvo S60
Reliability Score
The 2016 Volvo S60 receives a reliability score of 70 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2016 Volvo S60
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Volvo S60:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil Consumption/Stalling Reports of significant oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs, and engines stalling unexpectedly, sometimes at highway speeds, potentially due to piston ring defects or other engine failures like alternator seizure. |
High | Occasional | 80000-90000 miles |
| Door Latch Failure A component within the door latches may break, making doors difficult to latch or causing them to open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing injury risk. Subject of recall 19V849000. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Seat Belt Component Issues Multiple recalls (20V378000, 16V798000) address issues with front seat belt buckles separating or other seat belt component failures, increasing injury risk in a crash. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Wiper Motor Failure Windscreen wiper motors failing during inclement weather, leading to impossible visibility and creating a serious safety hazard. |
High | Rare | 20000-30000 miles |
| Electrical System/Starting Issues Recall 15V589000 addresses an issue where the vehicle may unexpectedly be unable to start in traffic, increasing crash risk. Also, reports of audio module failure draining the battery. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Spontaneous Glass Breakage (Sunroof/Windshield) Reports of sunroofs spontaneously exploding outward on highways and windshields developing stress fractures without impact. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Volvo S60:
Frequent complaints about oil consumption, engine stalling, alternator seizure, and issues related to spark plugs causing engine damage.
Issues include wiper motor failure and spontaneous cracking of windshields or sunroofs.
Complaints related to structural integrity, including spontaneous glass breakage and potentially wheel cracking.
Multiple recalls and complaints regarding seat belt components, including buckle separation and general seat belt issues.
Door latch failures leading to doors opening unexpectedly, subject to a recall.
Problems with the electrical system, including starting issues (recall related) and audio module failures that can drain the battery.
One report of sudden loss of braking power with an air leaking sound from the pedal.
Reports of alloy wheels cracking after hitting potholes.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Volvo S60
Is the 2016 Volvo S60 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Volvo S60 is exceptionally safe in crash protection, earning a perfect 5-star rating in all categories (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover). However, it has 4 recalls addressing critical safety components like seat belts, door latches, and electrical systems, indicating some manufacturing weaknesses that required corrective action. There are also 26 owner complaints, with 1 crash reported, but no injuries or fatalities.
What are common problems with the 2016 Volvo S60?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Volvo S60 are related to the ENGINE (5 complaints), including oil consumption and stalling. Other common problems involve VISIBILITY/WIPER components (3 complaints) like wiper motor failures and glass breakage, and STRUCTURE (3 complaints). There are also multiple recalls concerning SEAT BELTS and LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (door latches).
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Volvo S60?
Yes, the 2016 Volvo S60 has 4 recalls. These include two separate recalls for SEAT BELTS (front seat belt separation and general front seat belt issues), one for LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS (door latch component failure), and one for the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS (unexpected vehicle inability to start).
How does the 2016 Volvo S60 perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Volvo S60 performs exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a perfect 5-star rating in every category: Overall Rating, Frontal Crash, Side Crash, and Rollover. This indicates a very high level of occupant protection in the event of a collision.
Should I be concerned about engine issues in the 2016 Volvo S60?
Engine issues are a notable concern, with 5 complaints related to the ENGINE component. These include reports of excessive oil consumption, alternator seizure, and unexpected stalling. While not a recall, these issues suggest potential reliability concerns that prospective buyers should investigate.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2016 Volvo S60 boasts excellent crash test ratings, be aware of multiple recalls and recurring engine and door latch issues; ensure all recalls are addressed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the engine and electrical system.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Volvo S60
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Volvo S60. The data includes 26 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Volvo S60 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.