S60 D5 Auto advice

Author
Discussion

Commuter1001

Original Poster:

7 posts

73 months

Monday 5th February 2018
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Volvo crew,

I have been talked into buying an S60 D5 but have almost given up after a couple of weeks of researching/hunting. It has to be an Auto and have full leather (so far, so good).

I'm not keen on the estate look so think it's got to be S60 or S80.

First I was told to only look for a later Euro 3 model (more reliable engine, less to go wrong).

However, more recently I have been reading that you should avoid getting the Euro 3 Auto as it isn't reliable enough and won't last.

What are people's experience of Euro 4 Autos?
D5 Auto reliability in general?
Is there anything to be aware of if looking for S80 or are the engines/model years the same for both?

AndyTurbo

14 posts

97 months

Monday 3rd December 2018
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The later model Geartronics use the Aisin Warner TF-80SC transmissions. Not terrible, not the best. I should know I have an '06 S60 D5 with this gearbox.

The main problem with it is that Volvo marketed it a maintenance free gearbox, i.e. the fluid never needs to be changed. This is a marketing ploy to bring the cost of servicing down on paper. My advice would be to get a manual if you can. If you need an auto, get the fluid changed as soon as possible. Just remember that these boxes don't use regular ATF but instead use JWS 3309. At £10 a litre it isn't cheap, and you'll need a lot to do a full flush as there's no way to drain all of it at once. I'd recommend 10 litres at least. You'll also need Vida Dice (Volvo's diagnostic software) to reset the gearbox ECU once this has been done or just get the entire job done by a Volvo specialist.

Mine's currently at 135,000 and still going strong other that the occasional flare between 2nd and 3rd. Most problems with this particular gearbox are caused by the valve body getting worn which can be replaced but isn't a cheap job. However this car has done me so well I plan to do it if push comes to shove.

Edited by AndyTurbo on Monday 3rd December 03:17