The 2002 Volvo S60 is a compact executive sedan that debuted in 2000 as part of Volvo's second generation of front-wheel-drive cars, replacing the S70. It spanned model years from 2000 to 2009. Key trims included the base S60, the sportier S60 T5, and the luxurious S60 2.4T. Its popularity stems from its distinctive Scandinavian design, strong emphasis on safety, and a blend of comfortable ride quality with engaging driving dynamics, particularly in the T5 variant. Pricing when new ranged from approximately $27,000 to $35,000.
The Good
The 2002 Volvo S60 offers a compelling mix of robust safety, a comfortable and well-appointed interior, and distinctive styling. Its turbocharged engine options provide satisfying performance, while its solid build quality appeals to practicality, and its refined ride caters to comfort. This combination delivers strong value for both the discerning driver and the safety-conscious family.
The Bad
When considering a 2002 Volvo S60, potential buyers should be aware of common issues such as electronic module failures (especially the CEM), radiator leaks, and premature wear of suspension components. Turbocharger issues on T5 models and HVAC system problems can also arise. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these potential weaknesses.
2002 Volvo S60: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Inline-5 Cylinder (Naturally Aspirated)
- 2.4L Inline-5 Cylinder Turbocharged
- 2.3L Inline-5 Cylinder Turbocharged (T5 Model)
- Horsepower:
- Naturally Aspirated: Approximately 168-170 hp
- 2.4T: Approximately 197 hp
- T5: Approximately 247 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated, Varies by engine and transmission):
- City: 16-19 MPG
- Highway: 23-27 MPG
- 0-60 Times (Approximate):
- Naturally Aspirated: 8-9 seconds
- 2.4T: 7-8 seconds
- T5: 6-7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not typically applicable or advertised for this sedan model.
- Key Trim-Level Features:
- S60 (Base): Standard safety features, power accessories, air conditioning, cruise control, CD player, comfortable cloth upholstery, 16-inch alloy wheels.
- S60 2.4T: Adds a more powerful turbocharged engine, leather upholstery, power-adjustable driver's seat, upgraded audio system, fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, and often a sunroof.
- S60 T5: Features the most potent turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, unique interior and exterior styling cues (e.g., sport seats, body kit), premium audio system, xenon headlights, and larger alloy wheels. Optional features across trims could include premium sound systems, navigation, heated seats, and a sunroof.
2002 Volvo S60 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2002 |
| Make | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | All-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Sweden |
| Manufacturing City | BORN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3146 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 56.20 inches |
| Overall Length | 180.20 inches |
| Overall Width | 71.00 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 107.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.4-L L-5 DOHC 20V Turbo |
| Engine Size | 2.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $33,375 |
| Invoice Price | $31,372 |
| Delivery Charges | $625 |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2002 Volvo S60 Have?
The 2002 Volvo S60, while generally well-regarded for its safety and comfort, does have a few frequently reported issues that owners and prospective buyers should be aware of. One of the most common concerns revolves around the car's electronics, particularly the Central Electronic Module (CEM). Failures in the CEM can lead to a wide range of electrical gremlins, from non-functional lights and power windows to issues with the engine management system. Water intrusion into the CEM module, often due to clogged drains in the windshield cowl area, is a frequent culprit.
Another area to watch for is the cooling system. Radiator leaks, often starting from the plastic end tanks, are relatively common, leading to coolant loss and potential overheating if not addressed promptly. The automatic transmission, while generally robust, can sometimes experience issues with shifting quality or premature wear, especially if it hasn't been serviced regularly. On T5 models, the turbocharger, while providing exhilarating performance, can be a source of expensive repairs if not properly maintained, with potential for oil leaks or bearing failure over time.
Suspension components, such as control arm bushings and ball joints, can also wear out, leading to clunking noises and degraded handling. The HVAC system, including the blower motor and climate control module, has also been reported to have issues. While there haven't been widespread recalls specifically targeting major mechanical failures for the 2002 model year, it's always wise to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any safety-related recalls that may have been issued.
In terms of long-term reliability, Volvos of this era are known for their durable engines and solid chassis. However, the prevalence of electronic issues means that preventative maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a Volvo specialist are highly recommended to avoid costly surprises. While some owners have reported hundreds of thousands of miles with proper care, neglecting common issues can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan and increase ownership costs.
Another area to watch for is the cooling system. Radiator leaks, often starting from the plastic end tanks, are relatively common, leading to coolant loss and potential overheating if not addressed promptly. The automatic transmission, while generally robust, can sometimes experience issues with shifting quality or premature wear, especially if it hasn't been serviced regularly. On T5 models, the turbocharger, while providing exhilarating performance, can be a source of expensive repairs if not properly maintained, with potential for oil leaks or bearing failure over time.
Suspension components, such as control arm bushings and ball joints, can also wear out, leading to clunking noises and degraded handling. The HVAC system, including the blower motor and climate control module, has also been reported to have issues. While there haven't been widespread recalls specifically targeting major mechanical failures for the 2002 model year, it's always wise to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any safety-related recalls that may have been issued.
In terms of long-term reliability, Volvos of this era are known for their durable engines and solid chassis. However, the prevalence of electronic issues means that preventative maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a Volvo specialist are highly recommended to avoid costly surprises. While some owners have reported hundreds of thousands of miles with proper care, neglecting common issues can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan and increase ownership costs.
How long will the 2002 Volvo S60 last?
With diligent maintenance, the 2002 Volvo S60 can achieve an impressive average mileage of 200,000 to 250,000 miles, with many owners reporting exceeding 300,000 miles. The inline-5 engines are known for their robustness and longevity. However, this durability is contingent upon consistent adherence to maintenance schedules, especially oil changes and timing belt replacements. Weaknesses that can impact long-term service life include potential electronic module failures (CEM) and cooling system leaks, which, if left unaddressed, can lead to more significant and costly problems. Regular checks for these common issues and prompt repairs are key to maximizing the S60's lifespan and ensuring it remains a reliable vehicle for many years and miles.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2002 Volvo S60 was considered a strong contender in its segment for safety and featured a respectable, albeit somewhat dated by modern standards, array of technology and comfort features.
Safety Features: Volvo's commitment to safety is evident. Standard safety equipment included advanced multi-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags, and full-length inflatable curtain airbags. Anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP, also known as DSTC - Dynamic Stability and Traction Control), and traction control were also standard. The S60's robust construction and safety cage design contributed to excellent crash test ratings for its era. It achieved good ratings in NHTSA frontal and side-impact crash tests, and performed well in IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) tests, often earning "Good" ratings, particularly in frontal offset impacts.
Technology and Entertainment: Base models typically came equipped with a CD player and an AM/FM radio, with basic climate controls. Higher trims, like the 2.4T and T5, often included upgraded premium audio systems, sometimes with a subwoofer. Optional features could include a power-operated sunroof, cruise control, and keyless entry. While navigation systems were not standard, they were available as an option on some higher-spec models. The user interface for the infotainment system was functional but reflected the technology of the early 2000s, with physical buttons and a relatively simple display.
Driver Assistance Features: Driver assistance features were limited in the 2002 model year. Beyond the standard electronic stability and traction control, advanced aids like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, or blind-spot monitoring were not available. The focus was primarily on passive safety (airbags, structure) and active safety systems that prevented accidents (ABS, ESP).
Safety Features: Volvo's commitment to safety is evident. Standard safety equipment included advanced multi-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags, and full-length inflatable curtain airbags. Anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP, also known as DSTC - Dynamic Stability and Traction Control), and traction control were also standard. The S60's robust construction and safety cage design contributed to excellent crash test ratings for its era. It achieved good ratings in NHTSA frontal and side-impact crash tests, and performed well in IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) tests, often earning "Good" ratings, particularly in frontal offset impacts.
Technology and Entertainment: Base models typically came equipped with a CD player and an AM/FM radio, with basic climate controls. Higher trims, like the 2.4T and T5, often included upgraded premium audio systems, sometimes with a subwoofer. Optional features could include a power-operated sunroof, cruise control, and keyless entry. While navigation systems were not standard, they were available as an option on some higher-spec models. The user interface for the infotainment system was functional but reflected the technology of the early 2000s, with physical buttons and a relatively simple display.
Driver Assistance Features: Driver assistance features were limited in the 2002 model year. Beyond the standard electronic stability and traction control, advanced aids like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, or blind-spot monitoring were not available. The focus was primarily on passive safety (airbags, structure) and active safety systems that prevented accidents (ABS, ESP).
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2002 Volvo S60 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2002 Volvo S60 ranged from approximately $27,000 for the base model to over $35,000 for the sportier T5 trim. Like most vehicles, the S60 experienced significant depreciation in its initial years. Currently, used market prices for a 2002 Volvo S60 typically range from $2,000 to $6,000, heavily dependent on mileage, condition, trim level, and maintenance history. Models in excellent condition with lower mileage and comprehensive service records can command prices at the higher end of this spectrum. Factors affecting resale value include the prevalence of known issues (like CEM failures), the general reputation of Volvos for reliability in later years, and the demand for Scandinavian luxury sedans in the used market. Well-maintained T5 models often hold their value slightly better due to their performance appeal.
2002 Volvo S60 Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2002 Volvo S60 can be moderately economical, but certain aspects can increase costs. Insurance rates are generally reasonable, reflecting its safety features and market segment. Fuel economy is average for its class, with turbocharged models consuming more. Maintenance costs can be moderate; while basic services are standard, repairs to complex electronics (like the CEM) or turbocharger components on T5 models can be expensive. Finding qualified Volvo mechanics is advisable. Overall, if well-maintained and common issues are addressed proactively, it's not excessively costly, but neglected repairs can quickly make it an expensive car to own.
2002 Volvo S60 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline (Required)
Fuel Capacity
18.50 gallons
City Mileage
19 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
26 miles/gallon
2002 Volvo S60 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2002 Volvo S60 Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2007-04-05
Recall no.
07v152000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Vehicles Originally Sold IN or Currently Registered IN THE States OF Arizona and Nevada, DUE TO THE Combination OF Fuel Quality and Climate Conditions, THE Fuel Pump May, IN Certain Cases, Experience A Reduced Functionality. THE Most Common Symptoms Would BE Fuel Odor.
Consequence
Fuel Leakage IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 10, 2007. Owners MAY Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes
Volvo Recall NO. R176.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Vehicle Speed Control
Recall date
2006-11-15
Recall no.
06v441000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, A Combination OF Throttle Positioning Sensor Irregularities, A Dirty Throttle Housing, And/Or Inefficient Software Calibration MAY Cause A Warning Lamp TO Light and THE Subsequent Onset OF Limp Home Modes.
Consequence
This Resulted IN A High Number OF Vehicles Going Into THE Limp Home Mode Without Need.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install THE Current Software Upgrade Onto THE Involved Vehicles. THE Recall Began ON December 29, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes
Volvo Recall NO. R155. Customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date
2007-03-29
Recall no.
07e023000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Cardone Master Cylinders With Part Numbers 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987mza, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, and 11-3156, and With Date Codes Lower Than Dca7078 Sold AS Replacement Equipment FOR USE ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Seal ON Master Cylinder CAN Fail and Leak Brake Fluid.
Consequence
Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Result IN Poor Braking Performance, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Cardone Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase ANY Defective Master Cylinders. THE Recall Began During April 2007. Owners CAN Contact Cardone AT 1-800-777-4780.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Cardone Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed Above.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2003-08-01
Recall no.
03v284000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Passenger Cars Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 225, "child Restraint Anchorage Systems." THE Second Isofix Guide WAS NOT Installed IN These Vehicles And, IN Certain Cases, THE Owner's Manual Isofix Information IS Incorrect.
Consequence
This Does NOT Meet THE Requirements OF THE Standard.
Remedy
Owners Will Receive A Letter/Package Consisting OF THE Second Isofix Guide With Installation Instructions, and IN Certain Cases, THE Corrected Owner's Manual MAY BE Provided. IF THE Owner Wants TO Take Their Vehicle TO A Volvo Dealer FOR Installation OF THE Guide, IT Will BE Performed AT NO Charge TO THE Owner. Owner Notification Began ON December 19, 2003. Owners Should Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes
Volvo Recall NO. 124.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2003-08-21
Recall no.
03v305000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Passenger Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." THE Tire Pressure Label IS Incorrect. These Vehicles DID NOT Have THE "max Load Vehicle Capacity Weight" Information ON THE Label.
Consequence
This Does NOT Meet THE Requirements OF THE Standard.
Remedy
Owners Will BE Provided With A Corrected Label. IF THE Owner SO Desires, A Dealer CAN Install THE Label FOR Them. Owner Notification Began ON December 8, 2003. Owners Should Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes
Volvo Recall NO. 123.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Equipment:electrical:navigational System(Global Positioning System)
Recall date
2010-11-08
Recall no.
10v566000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volvo IS Recalling Certain Vehicles Equipped With Garmin 760 Portable Global Positioning System (Gps) Units Because THE Batteries ON Those Units MAY Overheat.
Consequence
AN Overheated Battery Could Lead TO A Fire.
Remedy
Volvo Advises Owners TO Please Stop Using THE Garmin Portable GPS Device Immediately, and Visit THE Garmin Website TO Determine IF Their Unit IS Affected. THE Unit's Battery Will BE Replaced With A NEW Battery and A Spacer Will BE Inserted ON Top OF THE Battery Next TO THE Pcb. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON November 18, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Garmin AT 866-957-1981 or Visit Garmin's Website AT Www.garmin.com/Nuvibatterypcbrecall.
Notes
Volvo Safety Recall NO. R231.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2009-12-18
Recall no.
09v483000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volvo IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001-2005 S80, Model Year 2001-2004 V70, S60, Xc70 and Model Year 2003-2005 Xc90 Vehicles Sold IN or Registered IN THE States OF Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia and THE U.s. Territories. When Exposed TO Certain Environmental Conditions (Hot Climate and Temperature Cycling) Over Time and IN Combination With Varying Fuel Quality, THE Fuel Pump CAN Develop Cracks IN THE Fuel Pump Flange.
Consequence
IF THE Condition Occurs Vehicle Owners MAY Notice Fuel Smell And/Or Fuel Leak Which, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Fuel Pump Installed IN THE Vehicle, and IF Necessary Replace THE Fuel Pump With A Part OF A Modified Design. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON January 15, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes
Volvo Safety Recall NO. R220.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2020-11-04
Recall no.
20v681000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo Car) IS Recalling Certain 2001-2003 S80 and S60 Vehicles Sold or Ever Registered IN Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands. THE Driver Side Frontal AIR BAG Inflator MAY Rupture, Sending Metal Fragments Into THE Passage Compartment, When THE Driver Side AIR BAG IS Deployed.
Consequence
Metal Fragments CAN Strike Vehicle Occupants Increasing THE Risk OF Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Volvo Car Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver Side AIR BAG Module, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began April 20, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Volvo Car Customer Service AT 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's Number FOR This Recall IS R10058.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2021-09-30
Recall no.
21v766000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volvo Car Usa, LLC (Volvo Car) IS Recalling Certain 2001-2006 S80 and 2001-2009 S60 Vehicles. THE Driver's AIR BAG Inflator MAY Explode During Deployment, DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence
AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's AIR Bag, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed November 29, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Volvo Car Customer Service AT 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's Number FOR This Recall IS R10125.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2002 Volvo S60 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
96 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2002 Volvo S60 Insurance
Insurance for a 2002 Volvo S60 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2002 Volvo S60 Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2002 Volvo S60 competed in the compact executive sedan segment against strong rivals like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, as well as domestic options such as the Acura TL and Lexus IS 300.
Performance: While the base S60 offered adequate performance, its naturally aspirated engines lagged behind the more potent offerings from BMW and Audi, especially in terms of acceleration and handling dynamics. The S60 T5, with its powerful turbo-five engine, could rival some of the sportier trims of its German competitors, delivering exhilarating acceleration. However, the BMW 3 Series generally offered a more engaging driving experience and superior handling across its range.
Features: In terms of features, the S60 held its own, particularly in safety. Volvo's legendary safety suite was a significant draw. It offered comfortable interiors and good build quality, comparable to the Lexus and Acura. However, the infotainment technology and interior styling of the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series often felt more modern and refined for the era.
Reliability: This is where the S60 presents a mixed bag compared to some rivals. While the core mechanical components are generally robust, the S60 is more prone to electrical issues (CEM module failures) than its Japanese counterparts like the Lexus IS 300 or Acura TL. The German rivals also have their own reliability quirks, with BMW and Mercedes often being more expensive to repair when problems do arise. The S60 generally sits in a middle ground, not as notoriously unreliable as some European luxury cars at higher mileage, but not as bulletproof as the best Japanese options.
Price: The S60 offered strong value when new, often undercutting comparable German sedans. In the used market, the 2002 S60 is significantly more affordable than similarly aged BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz C-Class models, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking safety and Scandinavian style.
Alternatives:
Performance: While the base S60 offered adequate performance, its naturally aspirated engines lagged behind the more potent offerings from BMW and Audi, especially in terms of acceleration and handling dynamics. The S60 T5, with its powerful turbo-five engine, could rival some of the sportier trims of its German competitors, delivering exhilarating acceleration. However, the BMW 3 Series generally offered a more engaging driving experience and superior handling across its range.
Features: In terms of features, the S60 held its own, particularly in safety. Volvo's legendary safety suite was a significant draw. It offered comfortable interiors and good build quality, comparable to the Lexus and Acura. However, the infotainment technology and interior styling of the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series often felt more modern and refined for the era.
Reliability: This is where the S60 presents a mixed bag compared to some rivals. While the core mechanical components are generally robust, the S60 is more prone to electrical issues (CEM module failures) than its Japanese counterparts like the Lexus IS 300 or Acura TL. The German rivals also have their own reliability quirks, with BMW and Mercedes often being more expensive to repair when problems do arise. The S60 generally sits in a middle ground, not as notoriously unreliable as some European luxury cars at higher mileage, but not as bulletproof as the best Japanese options.
Price: The S60 offered strong value when new, often undercutting comparable German sedans. In the used market, the 2002 S60 is significantly more affordable than similarly aged BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz C-Class models, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking safety and Scandinavian style.
Alternatives:
- Similar: Acura TL, Lexus IS 300 - offer comparable reliability and luxury features, often with more refined interiors and less electrical complexity.
- Better (for driving dynamics): BMW 3 Series (E46 generation) - superior handling and performance, though often more expensive to maintain and purchase.
- Better (for outright reliability): Lexus ES 300/330 - offers a more comfortable, less sporty ride but is known for exceptional long-term reliability and lower maintenance costs.
Final Verdict: Is the 2002 Volvo S60 a Good Sedan?
The 2002 Volvo S60 is ideal for buyers prioritizing safety, comfort, and distinctive Scandinavian design without the premium price tag of some European rivals. It's an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals or families seeking a dependable sedan. It's definitely worth considering on the used market, particularly if you're looking for value and a solid, safe vehicle. The S60 T5 is recommended for those who desire more spirited performance. Buying conditions to consider: prioritize well-maintained examples with documented service history, especially addressing potential electrical and cooling system issues. A pre-purchase inspection by a Volvo specialist is highly advised to identify any lurking problems, making it a smart buy under the right circumstances.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.