AWD*V70XC
06-11-2005, 02:40 AM
This is a piece that was written by an Aussie car mag, it gives an insight into how, what, why and future developments over the years of a XC70. Please bear in mind that all currenices are AUD and not USD.
BACKGROUND
Volvo cleverly shadowed Subaru's Outback treatment of the Liberty wagon and delivered a slightly larger, upmarket alternative based on its V70 AWD range which in turn evolved from the 850 range. The first version launched in February 1998 was based on the last of the older style V70 wagons with 25 mm extra ride height, grey bumpers and an all wheel drive system. The engine was the light boost turbo five cylinder in twin cam, four valves per cylinder specification with a choice of a five speed manual or four speed auto. Because its profile and ride height didn't qualify as a 4WD under Australian import rules, it was very expensive after it attracted full passenger car duty when similar Subaru models were exempted. New price was close to $80,000 and for that, buyers took home a slightly wider body and extra luggage space over a Subaru Outback but it wasn't twice as good.
The Volvo AWD system rarely engaged in this model as it could only ever send a proportion of drive to the rear wheels and only then, if the front wheels slipped. The aggressive traction control system would usually cut in to prevent the front wheels from slipping long before the all wheel drive system could engage. If you were a keen driver wanting all wheel drive handling on loose surfaces, you virtually had to turn the traction control off which left some drivers wondering why they spent the money and carried the extra weight.
The model was heavily revised in September 2000 when it was called simply the Cross Country. The new body style brought a big boost in width and height but stayed within a similar length. Because its ride height and body profile now met Australian 4WD tariff criteria, the price reflected the big cut in duty and started at just over $60,000 with the luxury SE (Special Equipment) model starting at around $70,000.
There was a modest increase in power and torque and the body gained extra unpainted plastic cladding which made it perfect in the bump and grind of city parking. The AWD system which added 102 kg to the weight still had a 95/5 bias front/rear. This ensures that it drives like a front drive model even on loose surfaces and only switches to 50/50 front/rear after the front wheels slip. Instead of the previous limited slip rear differential, the rear axle uses the ABS braking as a form of slip control. If used regularly, this makes the big brake bills that come with this model even more frequent.
There is widespread agreement that Volvo got the styling right on this new model after returning the ledges to the top of the doors that distinguished earlier Volvos. Its upright side and rear window angles maximized space while providing plenty of shade for passengers and good vision for the driver. It is a design that shouldn't date in a hurry.
In February 2003, the model received minor revisions and was renamed the XC70 to align it with the XC90. Where the Volvo XC70 has been compared to a cross-trainer shoe derived from the V70 wagon range, the XC90 is a purpose built cross-over vehicle that shares its platform with the US Ford Freestyle.
http://carpoint.ninemsn.com.au/carcontent/s.gifKey 1998-2004 Cross Country/XC70 Changes
Feb 1998: Fully-equipped V70 Cross Country version of existing V70 AWD released with 142kW and 270Nm
Sep 2000: New stand-alone Cross-Country model released but still closely related to other V70 models with 147kW and 285Nm. Special Equipment (SE) pack added alloys, cross bars, leather, heated front seats, electric driver's seat adjustment, cabin air filter. A 'Plus Pack' added leather and alloys to the base model for a bargain $2000
Apr 2001: Plus Pack now standard on base model. Manual available only on special order
Jan 2002: Improved software for initial launch and ABS
Feb 2003:Revised engine delivers 154kW/320Nm. New AWD system and triple split centre row seat. Renamed XC70 and continues with revisions today
http://carpoint.ninemsn.com.au/carcontent/s.gifKey Cross Country/XC70 Check Points
Running Gear Unusual in-line transverse all-alloy engine with 5 cylinders, 20 valves and belt drive for twin camshafts is long lived but not if routine coolant and timing belt changes are ignored. Typical Euro thermostat requires replacement every five years or so.
Although extra ride height lifts engine out of the way, the sump can still be vulnerable so think about fitting the factory sump guard if you are leaving the bitumen.
Oil must be changed no later than every 7500 km with quality synthetic-base oil to minimise carbon build-up which can chop out rear main seal, camshaft top seal, valve stem seals and O-ring in turbo oil return line. Leaking turbo oil return lines appear to be a routine repair. Engines serviced according to long intervals under city driving are coming in with serious oil burning problems. Sludged sumps full of scale can block the oil pick-up. Specialists are suspecting blocked engine oil lines including return lines in the pistons are adding to oil consumption. Before replacing valve stem seals or undertaking an engine rebuild, consider a controlled oil flush program by an expert.
The auto is known to thump, bump and flare when it shouldn't. Initial culprit appeared to be the programming that automatically engaged neutral when stationary then picked up false neutrals while moving. Revised programming eliminated this feature which fixed some transmissions. Other culprit is the valve body which can cost almost as much to replace as a changeover transmission Allow up to $4,000 if an auto transmission is misbehaving.
Some air-conditioner condenser fans melted under hot climate conditions and should have been replaced under recall. Check that this has occurred. Air-conditioning evaporators and cabin fans are still prone to failure when gunk and fallout rots out their base. It should be replaced with a full evaporator kit that includes a filter to prevent build-up of contaminants.
Oil filter is prone to leaking as its O-ring becomes heat hardened. Check all engine seals for leakage. Plastic radiator header tank also relies on rubber O-ring to seal which can fail with heat hardening. Check all coolant system hoses and fittings for tell tale leaks. The all alloy engine can go downhill quickly if coolant is frequently topped up with water because of a leak in the system.
Brakes and Suspension
Suspected outside interference may be causing ABS computers to fail which also takes out the traction control but they can be repaired.
Raised suspension can work hard over rough roads so check all dampers and bushes. Drop links and bushes for front and rear anti-roll bars are a routine failure item and chop out earlier than expected. Make sure that suitable cross-country tyres of equivalent standard to the originals are fitted. Check that vital suspension parts and cross members have not been bashed to the point where they create alignment and suspension geometry problems as Volvo made a point of saying it was never intended for offroad work.
Steering rack oil leaks from pinion seal and boots show up on high mileage cars. CV joints last providing boots are not split.
Quality local brake pads can reduce copious brake dust and frequent rotor replacement over originals. Original rotors are prone to shudder. Easy rotor replacement should only be an hour-long job for experts.
Front wheel bearings can require replacement. Some driveshafts were missing bolts but should be rectified by now. Check for excessive driveshaft clunks when shifting from reverse to drive or vice versa.
Body
Main weakness in the very first models is front door stays and their A-pillar mounts which crack and break for fiddly repairs. Driver's seat window channel can break for internal door rattle and wagon's internal liftback trim can fall off and require upgrading.
Check operation of all electric windows. Fancy cup holder may be broken. Leather trim on earlier cars is old enough to require major rejuvenating if a quality leather conditioner has not been applied regularly.
Most Volvo wagons are used as family carry-alls so they cop more internal wear than normal. In some wealthier families, it is the family hack and treated accordingly. Check that all accessories work and trim is not broken or marked as it is not uncommon for bored kids to damage fittings while waiting for parents.
Bottomline
A Volvo Cross-Country/XC70 is possibly the safest, most versatile and the most comfortable all wheel drive multi-passenger family wagon available without the bulk and running costs of a full sized SUV or the looks of a people mover. Its affordable used prices are offset by higher repair bills than expected even for a Volvo.
BACKGROUND
Volvo cleverly shadowed Subaru's Outback treatment of the Liberty wagon and delivered a slightly larger, upmarket alternative based on its V70 AWD range which in turn evolved from the 850 range. The first version launched in February 1998 was based on the last of the older style V70 wagons with 25 mm extra ride height, grey bumpers and an all wheel drive system. The engine was the light boost turbo five cylinder in twin cam, four valves per cylinder specification with a choice of a five speed manual or four speed auto. Because its profile and ride height didn't qualify as a 4WD under Australian import rules, it was very expensive after it attracted full passenger car duty when similar Subaru models were exempted. New price was close to $80,000 and for that, buyers took home a slightly wider body and extra luggage space over a Subaru Outback but it wasn't twice as good.
The Volvo AWD system rarely engaged in this model as it could only ever send a proportion of drive to the rear wheels and only then, if the front wheels slipped. The aggressive traction control system would usually cut in to prevent the front wheels from slipping long before the all wheel drive system could engage. If you were a keen driver wanting all wheel drive handling on loose surfaces, you virtually had to turn the traction control off which left some drivers wondering why they spent the money and carried the extra weight.
The model was heavily revised in September 2000 when it was called simply the Cross Country. The new body style brought a big boost in width and height but stayed within a similar length. Because its ride height and body profile now met Australian 4WD tariff criteria, the price reflected the big cut in duty and started at just over $60,000 with the luxury SE (Special Equipment) model starting at around $70,000.
There was a modest increase in power and torque and the body gained extra unpainted plastic cladding which made it perfect in the bump and grind of city parking. The AWD system which added 102 kg to the weight still had a 95/5 bias front/rear. This ensures that it drives like a front drive model even on loose surfaces and only switches to 50/50 front/rear after the front wheels slip. Instead of the previous limited slip rear differential, the rear axle uses the ABS braking as a form of slip control. If used regularly, this makes the big brake bills that come with this model even more frequent.
There is widespread agreement that Volvo got the styling right on this new model after returning the ledges to the top of the doors that distinguished earlier Volvos. Its upright side and rear window angles maximized space while providing plenty of shade for passengers and good vision for the driver. It is a design that shouldn't date in a hurry.
In February 2003, the model received minor revisions and was renamed the XC70 to align it with the XC90. Where the Volvo XC70 has been compared to a cross-trainer shoe derived from the V70 wagon range, the XC90 is a purpose built cross-over vehicle that shares its platform with the US Ford Freestyle.
http://carpoint.ninemsn.com.au/carcontent/s.gifKey 1998-2004 Cross Country/XC70 Changes
Feb 1998: Fully-equipped V70 Cross Country version of existing V70 AWD released with 142kW and 270Nm
Sep 2000: New stand-alone Cross-Country model released but still closely related to other V70 models with 147kW and 285Nm. Special Equipment (SE) pack added alloys, cross bars, leather, heated front seats, electric driver's seat adjustment, cabin air filter. A 'Plus Pack' added leather and alloys to the base model for a bargain $2000
Apr 2001: Plus Pack now standard on base model. Manual available only on special order
Jan 2002: Improved software for initial launch and ABS
Feb 2003:Revised engine delivers 154kW/320Nm. New AWD system and triple split centre row seat. Renamed XC70 and continues with revisions today
http://carpoint.ninemsn.com.au/carcontent/s.gifKey Cross Country/XC70 Check Points
Running Gear Unusual in-line transverse all-alloy engine with 5 cylinders, 20 valves and belt drive for twin camshafts is long lived but not if routine coolant and timing belt changes are ignored. Typical Euro thermostat requires replacement every five years or so.
Although extra ride height lifts engine out of the way, the sump can still be vulnerable so think about fitting the factory sump guard if you are leaving the bitumen.
Oil must be changed no later than every 7500 km with quality synthetic-base oil to minimise carbon build-up which can chop out rear main seal, camshaft top seal, valve stem seals and O-ring in turbo oil return line. Leaking turbo oil return lines appear to be a routine repair. Engines serviced according to long intervals under city driving are coming in with serious oil burning problems. Sludged sumps full of scale can block the oil pick-up. Specialists are suspecting blocked engine oil lines including return lines in the pistons are adding to oil consumption. Before replacing valve stem seals or undertaking an engine rebuild, consider a controlled oil flush program by an expert.
The auto is known to thump, bump and flare when it shouldn't. Initial culprit appeared to be the programming that automatically engaged neutral when stationary then picked up false neutrals while moving. Revised programming eliminated this feature which fixed some transmissions. Other culprit is the valve body which can cost almost as much to replace as a changeover transmission Allow up to $4,000 if an auto transmission is misbehaving.
Some air-conditioner condenser fans melted under hot climate conditions and should have been replaced under recall. Check that this has occurred. Air-conditioning evaporators and cabin fans are still prone to failure when gunk and fallout rots out their base. It should be replaced with a full evaporator kit that includes a filter to prevent build-up of contaminants.
Oil filter is prone to leaking as its O-ring becomes heat hardened. Check all engine seals for leakage. Plastic radiator header tank also relies on rubber O-ring to seal which can fail with heat hardening. Check all coolant system hoses and fittings for tell tale leaks. The all alloy engine can go downhill quickly if coolant is frequently topped up with water because of a leak in the system.
Brakes and Suspension
Suspected outside interference may be causing ABS computers to fail which also takes out the traction control but they can be repaired.
Raised suspension can work hard over rough roads so check all dampers and bushes. Drop links and bushes for front and rear anti-roll bars are a routine failure item and chop out earlier than expected. Make sure that suitable cross-country tyres of equivalent standard to the originals are fitted. Check that vital suspension parts and cross members have not been bashed to the point where they create alignment and suspension geometry problems as Volvo made a point of saying it was never intended for offroad work.
Steering rack oil leaks from pinion seal and boots show up on high mileage cars. CV joints last providing boots are not split.
Quality local brake pads can reduce copious brake dust and frequent rotor replacement over originals. Original rotors are prone to shudder. Easy rotor replacement should only be an hour-long job for experts.
Front wheel bearings can require replacement. Some driveshafts were missing bolts but should be rectified by now. Check for excessive driveshaft clunks when shifting from reverse to drive or vice versa.
Body
Main weakness in the very first models is front door stays and their A-pillar mounts which crack and break for fiddly repairs. Driver's seat window channel can break for internal door rattle and wagon's internal liftback trim can fall off and require upgrading.
Check operation of all electric windows. Fancy cup holder may be broken. Leather trim on earlier cars is old enough to require major rejuvenating if a quality leather conditioner has not been applied regularly.
Most Volvo wagons are used as family carry-alls so they cop more internal wear than normal. In some wealthier families, it is the family hack and treated accordingly. Check that all accessories work and trim is not broken or marked as it is not uncommon for bored kids to damage fittings while waiting for parents.
Bottomline
A Volvo Cross-Country/XC70 is possibly the safest, most versatile and the most comfortable all wheel drive multi-passenger family wagon available without the bulk and running costs of a full sized SUV or the looks of a people mover. Its affordable used prices are offset by higher repair bills than expected even for a Volvo.