2015 Volvo S80 Safety Report

The 2015 Volvo S80 presents a mixed safety picture based on the limited NHTSA data available. With only 7 total complaints, it suggests a relatively low incidence of reported issues for its model year. However, the complaints include 1 crash, 1 injury, and 0 fatalities, indicating that when issues do occur, they can have serious consequences. A significant concern is the lack of NHTSA crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover are all N/A), which makes it impossible to assess its performance in standardized crash scenarios. Common complaint patterns include issues with the ENGINE (2 complaints), POWER TRAIN (2 complaints), and specific components like AIR BAGS (1 complaint) and LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (1 complaint). One concerning complaint details an airbag failure to deploy in a crash, and another describes a front driver door latch failing while driving, a known issue in other Volvo models that was not recalled for the S80. The recall history for the 2015 S80 includes two significant campaigns. One recall (NHTSA ID: 15V-643) addresses SEAT BELTS:FRONT, affecting a broad range of Volvo models from 2007-2016, where an unsecured occupant has an increased risk of injury in a crash. The second recall (NHTSA ID: 14V-094) pertains to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, specifically the Central Electronic Module (CEM) in certain 2014 S60, S80, XC60, and XC70 vehicles, which could lead to malfunctioning headlamps and/or turn signals, increasing crash risk. While the number of complaints is low, the nature of some issues, such as engine surging, excessive oil consumption, and a door latch failure, coupled with the airbag non-deployment in a crash, highlights potential areas of concern that buyers should be aware of. Overall, the 2015 Volvo S80's safety profile is difficult to fully ascertain due to the absence of NHTSA crash test ratings. The low complaint volume is positive, but the presence of serious individual complaints, including a crash with airbag non-deployment and a door latch failure, along with two safety recalls, suggests that while generally robust, specific critical failures can occur. The recalls address fundamental safety systems like seat belts and electrical components affecting visibility, which are crucial for overall vehicle safety. Prospective buyers should investigate if these recalls have been addressed and be vigilant about the reported mechanical issues.

Our recommendation: Given the lack of crash test ratings and the presence of critical safety recalls and serious individual complaints (e.g., airbag failure, door latch failure), thoroughly inspect any potential purchase and ensure all recalls have been addressed by a certified Volvo dealer.