Recall Alert: 11,993 Volvo Vehicles

Volvo has issued a recall for 11,993 vehicles due to a problem with the software of the electrical system, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The recall includes the 2008-2010 S80, 2009-2010 XC70 and the new 2010 XC60.

In these models the software in the central electronic module may not send signals to the fuel pump electronic module under certain conditions. This missing signal can interfere with the start of the fuel pump. The driver might be able to start the vehicle or even drive a short distance, but then the engine may stall, which could lead to an accident.

Dealers will fix the problem by downloading new software to the vehicles’ central electronic module for free. Owners may contact Volvo at 800-458-1552 or NHTSA at 888-327-4236.

Recall Alert: 17,614 Volvo Vehicles

Volvo has issued a recall for 17,614 vehicles, including the 2008-09 versions of the S80, V70 and XC70, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The recall is due to a software programming error in the fan control module for the engine cooling fan that may cause it to stop working. This can reduce air-conditioner performance and possibly even cause the engine to fail in a worst-case scenario, increasing the risk of an accident.

Dealers will replace the fan control module with a new one for free. Owners may contact Volvo at 800-458-1552 or the NHTSA vehicle safety hotline at 888-327-4236.

Recall Alert: 12,000 Volvo Sedans, Wagons

Volvo has issued a recall for 12,303 vehicles, including the S80, V70 and XC70 from the 2007 and 2008 model years, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

A glitch in the diagnostic software in the central electronic module could cause the windshield wipers to malfunction and either not turn on when activated or turn on when the driver hasn’t touched the switch. Faulty windshield wipers could lead to a loss of visibility in bad weather and increase the risk of an accident.

Dealers will inspect the module and upgrade the software free of charge. Owners can contact the Volvo customer center at 800-458-1552 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236.

Volvo S80 Refreshed for 2010

 
The S80 isn’t exactly an old vehicle — it was launched in 2007 — but Volvo has refreshed it for 2010. Given the age of Volvo’s flagship sedan, the changes aren’t dramatic. Like many cars, the S80 has seen sales fall lately.

Exterior changes include a larger, prominent “Volvo” badge on the front grille; in the rear, the “Volvo” decal is now spaced out and larger. Other tasteful enhancements include a bright chrome strip lining the front lower intake, side sills and below the taillamps.

On the inside, Volvo has added some metallic trim to the center stack to make it look more like the new XC60. There’s also a restyled instrument cluster and a brand-new four-spoke steering wheel. The automaker says the new steering wheel will find its way onto other Volvos down the line.

There are no mechanical changes to the S80. It can be equipped with an inline-six-cylinder engine, a turbocharged inline-six or a V-8. All-wheel drive is available on the turbo and V-8 models.

The 2010 S80 will be unveiled at the Geneva auto show in March, and will go on sale in the U.S. shortly thereafter. Pricing will be announced closer to launch. Check out some photos below.