Volvo Repair: 2001 Volvo S80 Transmission, volvo s80, 2001 volvo s80

Question
Hi James,  I have 65,000 miles on my 2001 Volvo S80 and the transmission went out...won't change from 2nd to 3rd.  The dealer tells me there is an "internal" problem and I need a new transmission.  I keep hearing rumors from people about Volvos and their transmission problems (especially 2001 S80's) but can't find any hard evidence.  Are you familiar with this problem?  I searched the previous questions but could have overlooked it. Thanks!


Answer
Well yes those transmissions are prone to failure.  The reason is......... It is manufactured by GENERAL MOTORS.  That's right. Chevrolet is the provider of the transmission for that car.  That is also why the 6 cylinder engines were discontinued on the newer S80's.  They always fail one of two ways.  

1. Incorrect gear ratio (slipping clutches/bands - worn out internally)
2. Hydraulic solenoid jammed.  This can be fixed by replacing the valvebody.  Less expensive but this repair is always kinda iffy.  It is like putting a band aid on it.  Won't last forever.

You're not gonna see much on paper describing the problems because they're kinda embaressed I think about the whole problem.  They signed a contract with GM for years worth of terribly transmissions.  The new S80's will be much better with a new design transmission.  Just be thankful you have a 2001 and not a 1999.

James