Scandinavian four-season convertible with real comfort
A Swedish grand tourer available as a coupe and soft-top convertible (Mk1, 1997-2005) or a retractable hardtop convertible (Mk2, 2006-2013). It attracted buyers who wanted four-season open-top motoring with Volvo safety credentials and Scandinavian comfort. It carved out a niche between the BMW 3 Series Convertible and Saab 9-3 Convertible as a relaxed cruiser rather than a sports car.
We track 5 known issues across the Volvo C70 range, with 4 classified as significant. Knowing which variants and configurations to approach with caution can save you from expensive surprises after purchase.
Found a Volvo C70? Enter the reg to see which of our 5 known issues apply to that exact car, plus full MOT history and mileage checks.
C70-I (1996–2005) — Engine options included the 2.0T, 2.3T5, 2.4. We track 4 known issues on this generation, with 3 classified as significant. The most significant concern is Suspension component excessive wear (£150–£400 to address).
C70-II (2006–2013) — Petrol options included the 2.4i, T5, T5, with D4, D3, D5, D5 on the diesel side. We track 5 known issues on this generation, with 4 classified as significant. The most significant concern is Suspension component excessive wear (£150–£400 to address).
MOT data shows C70 models fail at 14.9x the fleet average for excessive wear in suspension pins, bushings, and joints. The convertible body lacks the structural rigidity of a fixed roof, transferring more stress to suspension components. This accelerated wear affects control arm bushings, anti-roll bar links, and suspension joints across both generations. Early wear can appear from just 20,000 miles on some variants.
Worn suspension components compromise handling and safety. Vehicle may fail MOT test. Continued driving with worn suspension can cause accelerated tyre wear and unpredictable handling characteristics, particularly under braking or cornering.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
C70 petrol models show MOT failure rates of 16.0x the fleet average for power steering fluid leaks and system malfunctions. The hydraulic power steering system develops leaks from the pump, high-pressure lines, and rack seals. The convertible's additional weight compared to equivalent saloons places higher loads on the steering system, accelerating component wear. Failure typically manifests as fluid leaks, pump noise, or complete loss of power assistance.
Complete power steering failure makes the car very difficult to steer, particularly at low speeds and when parking. Continued operation with low fluid can destroy the expensive steering rack. Power steering pump replacement costs are significant on convertible models.
During the test drive, check the steering for excessive play, vibration or pulling to one side. Listen for groaning or whining when turning the wheel at low speed. Power steering fluid level and condition should be checked on hydraulic systems.
MOT data shows C70 models fail at 12.1x the fleet average for flexible brake hose damage and deterioration. The convertible structure and longer wheelbase place different stresses on brake hoses compared to standard Volvo saloons. Rubber brake hoses deteriorate internally and externally, with age-related cracking and internal delamination causing brake performance issues or complete failure. This affects all generations and is a safety-critical item.
Failed brake hoses can cause complete brake failure or dangerous brake performance reduction. This is a safety-critical component - any deterioration requires immediate attention. MOT failure is certain and the vehicle is unsafe to drive with damaged brake hoses.
Check brake disc condition for lipping or scoring. Test braking at moderate speed for pulling to one side or vibration through the steering wheel. Review MOT advisories for brake-related items.
Second generation C70 diesel models suffer from DPF blockage issues, with MOT data showing The DPF system requires regular high-speed driving to burn off accumulated soot. Convertibles are often used for shorter urban journeys which prevent proper DPF regeneration. Blocked DPF causes excessive exhaust smoke, reduced power, and MOT emissions failures. The problem is particularly acute on D3 and D5 engines from 2006-2013.
Severely blocked DPF requires expensive replacement or professional cleaning. Continued driving with blocked DPF can damage the turbocharger and engine. MOT failure is certain once smoke opacity exceeds limits. DPF replacement costs can exceed the vehicle's value on older models.
Ask about the car's typical usage — short urban journeys prevent DPF regeneration. Check for DPF warning lights and ask about any previous regeneration issues. A forced regeneration at a garage costs far less than a DPF replacement.
The C70 suffers from premature deterioration of rubber dust covers protecting suspension joints and steering components. MOT data shows failure rates up to 20.7x the national average, particularly affecting ball joint covers and suspension arm bushings. The convertible body structure places different loads on suspension components compared to saloon variants, accelerating wear of protective covers. Once covers fail, dirt and moisture enter the joints causing accelerated wear and potential safety issues.
Failed dust covers allow contamination of expensive suspension joints. Left untreated, ball joints and steering components will wear rapidly requiring replacement. MOT failure is certain once covers are significantly deteriorated.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
For the full breakdown of all 5 tracked issues with repair costs, see the Volvo C70 common problems page.
Based on 51k real DVSA MOT tests, the Volvo C70 fails more often than average on several items. The biggest outlier is coil springs broken at 155x the fleet average, followed by steering rack wear (73x).
When viewing a specific car, check its MOT history for recurring advisories in these categories. See the full Volvo C70 MOT failure breakdown for data at every mileage point.
Routine servicing (oil and filter change every 10k miles) typically costs £80–£120 at an independent garage.
The bigger-ticket items to budget for include timing belt and tensioner (£400–£600).
See the full Volvo C70 service schedule for every interval and cost breakdown.
The Volvo C70 is a solid choice on the used market, though not without its quirks. The issues we track are well-understood and largely avoidable if you know what to look for. A thorough inspection and complete service history go a long way. For the Mk2 retractable hardtop, the 2010-2013 facelift models are the most refined with the fewest roof mechanism complaints. For Mk1 grand touring, the 2003-2005 2.4 manual in GT spec is the driver's choice. Avoid 2006-2007 early Mk2 production which suffered the most hardtop and water leak issues.
Before committing, check the car's full MOT history, verify the service record is complete, and if possible arrange a specialist inspection. Enter any registration into our free report to see the complete picture.
Get Car Wise maintains a database of known mechanical issues for every popular car on UK roads, tracking the faults that owners, specialists and DVSA data reveal.
When you run a report on a specific Volvo C70, we cross-reference the exact variant, engine and age against our database of 5 known issues. Combined with full MOT history analysis, mileage verification and DVLA data, you get a complete picture before viewing.
Enter the registration for MOT history, mileage verification, known faults for that exact variant, and a Get Car Wise Score.
This guide was compiled from independent expert reviews, DVSA MOT data, specialist workshops and our own database of 5 known Volvo C70 issues. We are not affiliated with any source listed.