Sveriges Volvoforum

Here's Johnny! skrev:As I understand it, Volvo programmed the transmission to soften shifts for more luxurious experience. This, coupled with a heavy car and powerful engine, causes excessive slippage on the clutches. The clutches eventually disintegrate, the particles pollute the oil, and the valve body gets clogged, at which point a transmission rebuild is the only remedy. Also, the particles can abrade the heat exchanger and cause the coolant/transmission fluid to intermix.

Volvo's fix was a reprogramming of the transmission which causes noticeable throttle lift during moderate and heavy load shifting. It's not ideal but I'll take it if my tranny lasts longer. I understand it's an effective fix and I recommend that you check that you have this fix applied.

The tranny (a GM unit) gets a bad rap but Volvo has the ultimate responsibility for a questionable selection, poor integration, and a cheapass remedy (performance degrading software vs. a true fix of the mechanical issue including fitting heavier duty clutches).