The third generation Volvo V70—a mid-size, 5-door station wagon—was made available to the public in 2007, following closely on the heels of the tremendously successful generation. While few internal changes occurred between the two models, the third generation does boast an increase in legroom and cargo space due to an enlarged tailgate. Some owners find that they are experiencing problems with their power windows.
Malfunctioning power windows are undeniably frustrating. V70 owners who have experienced window problems often experience them as intermittent events (i.e. the windows work some of the time, but not others). It also doesn’t seem to matter whether or not the windows are going up or coming down: they’ll work for a few moments, and then they just cut out. Others experience a complete window failure, preventing them from opening or closing the glass completely.
The first sort of problem is very likely electrical. If the window works sometimes but not others, then there’s a good chance that there’s an issue with the wire harness (a part that collects all of the different electrical wires supplying juice to the windows), or that there’s a faulty ground wire somewhere. There’s also a chance that a fuse is on the way out or needs its electrical connections cleaned. If, on the other hand, the window has ceased working completely, along with the electrical problems you might also be looking at a problem with the window regulator, the various cables that pull the window into place, or a jammed window.
Taking apart the door panel to diagnose an issue presents a definite challenge, and it is much better to allow a trained professional to do the task. Rather than driving down to a dealership, consider taking a trip to a nearby import repair specialist where you will receive unparalleled service for a fraction of the dealership’s cost.
Search for a local, independent Volvo repair shop with Volvo mechanics that have dealer-level expertise at a fraction of the expense.