I've had this 2004 S60 2.5T since 2006 when it had 30k miles on it. I now have about 88k on it.

For the first year and a half I never had a problem with the bulbs going out. In the past year and a half I've replaced the tail lamps 4-5 times (usually on the drivers side, but a couple times on the passangers side) I've also replaced the headlamps 3-4 times in the past 18 months. (I just replaced them yesterday and before that it was December 08.)

I've told the dealer that I believe there is an electrical system problem. The service manager told me that these cars "go through bulbs" because of the daytime running lights. I've owned 6 other cars with DRL's and the bulbs always lasted more than 4 months! The dealer told me it would cost $150 to test the system unless a problem was found and then it might be under my warranty.

What do you guys think? I've tried OEM bulbs, Osram, Silver Star's, etc. Nothing seems to last! Why did I go 18 months with no issues and now over the last 18 months it's been so bad? Any ideas?

Thanks!

Daniel

 

I would hook a voltmeter to the battery and see how many volts the alternator is putting out when it's running. 13.6 is ideal. If it spikes over 15 or more, then the alt may be overcharging.

 

I have no idea why they do this, but I've had an '02, '03, and '04 S60 and they all fly through bulbs. I've got some unknown electrical prob in the '03 which may be related to the bulb but outside of that it just seems like they burn em out quick.

 

Headlights; see TSB 3370014. Volvo refers to part # 27285 that connects between the headlight wiring harness.

Rear bulbs. My experience has been you need to change out the bulbs in pairs with correct wattage and same brand. Make sure bulb contacts are clean.

Add these electrical problems to Volvo's poor post warranty accountability and you can see why volvo sales suck. After two Volvo's and terrible post warranty support, and no support from Turner Volvo Sacramento... Volvo made it easy, my next car will be Japanese!

Chuck
sacramento