Guide to the Engine Timing Belt for the 2011-2016 Volvo S60
Keep your Volvo's engine safe by understanding when and why to replace this critical part before it fails.
- The 2011-2016 Volvo S60 has an interference engine; a failed timing belt will cause catastrophic engine damage.
- Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys as a complete kit every 80,000-100,000 miles or 10 years, whichever comes first.
- Always replace the water pump at the same time as the timing belt to prevent future failure.
- Use high-quality OEM supplier brands like Continental or Gates for maximum reliability.
Symptoms of a Failing Timing Belt
A timing belt can fail without any warning, but sometimes there are signs of a problem. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should have your vehicle inspected immediately.
🎬 Watch: Learn how to identify common signs of timing belt failure.- Ticking or Squealing Noises: A worn-out belt or a failing tensioner pulley can create a ticking or high-pitched squealing sound coming from the front of the engine.
- Engine Misfires or Rough Idling: If the belt has stretched or slipped, it can throw off the engine's timing, leading to misfires, rough running, and a check engine light.
- Difficulty Starting: A slipped or broken belt will prevent the engine from starting correctly, or at all. The starter may sound like it's spinning faster than usual.
- Oil Leaks: Oil leaking from the front crankshaft seal can drip onto the belt, causing the rubber to degrade and fail prematurely.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Timing Belt Kit
When replacing a part as critical as the timing belt, quality is essential. You do not need to buy the part from a Volvo dealer to get excellent quality. Many aftermarket brands are the original equipment manufacturers (OEM) for Volvo, offering the same parts without the dealer markup. For this job, always purchase a complete kit that includes the belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys.
Pro Tip: Replace the Water Pump and Serpentine Belt
Experienced mechanics universally recommend replacing the water pump at the same time as the timing belt. The timing belt drives the water pump, and the labor to access it is the same. If the old water pump fails later, it can destroy your new timing belt, leading to engine damage. Additionally, a failing serpentine (accessory) belt can shred and get tangled in the timing belt assembly, causing it to break. It is wise to replace the serpentine belt and its tensioner during the timing belt service.
Brand Quality Tiers for Your S60
Tier 1: OEM-Quality Suppliers
These brands are widely trusted and often supply the parts to Volvo directly. You can be confident in their durability and fit.
- Continental (ContiTech): Often cited as the original manufacturer for Volvo timing belts, a Continental kit is a top-tier choice.
- Gates: A highly reputable brand that supplies belts to many automakers. Gates PowerGrip kits are a safe and reliable option for your S60.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket
These brands offer a good balance of quality and value, though many Volvo specialists prefer Tier 1 brands for this specific job.
- Dayco: Dayco is a known OEM supplier for some manufacturers and their kits are a solid choice. However, some forum users have reported mixed experiences with their tensioners and pulleys compared to Tier 1 brands.
- ACDelco: While a well-known brand, their kits may source components from various global locations, and the quality of the bearings and hardware may not be as consistent as OEM suppliers.
Tier 3: Budget Brands
For a component as critical as the timing belt, where failure leads to engine destruction, using budget-level or unknown brands is not recommended.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
As of early 2026, there are no specific NHTSA recalls for the timing belt on the 2011-2016 Volvo S60. However, there was a recall for some 2011 diesel models concerning the auxiliary (serpentine) belt tensioner, which could fail and potentially interfere with the timing belt. There are numerous owner reports of the serpentine belt or its tensioner failing, leading to the debris destroying the timing belt and causing catastrophic engine failure. This highlights the importance of inspecting and replacing the serpentine belt system during a timing belt service.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Timing Belt (Belt Only) | $45 - $80 |
| Timing Belt Kit (Belt, Tensioner, Idlers) | $120 - $180 |
| Timing Belt Kit with Water Pump | $150 - $300+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When should I replace my 2011-2016 S60's timing belt?
Volvo's official interval is often around 10 years or 100,000 to 120,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, due to the risk of age-related degradation of the rubber, many specialists and owners recommend a more conservative interval of 80,000-100,000 miles or 10 years. Age is as important as mileage.
Is this a difficult job to do myself?
Yes, this is a complex and precise job. It requires special tools to lock the engine timing, and a mistake can lead to immediate and severe engine damage. For most owners, this job is best left to a professional mechanic with experience working on Volvo engines.
🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing the timing belt and water pump.What is the difference between a timing belt and a serpentine belt?
The timing belt is toothed and is located behind a plastic cover; it synchronizes the engine's internal components. The serpentine belt (or accessory belt) is visible on the outside of the engine and powers accessories like the alternator and A/C compressor. On the S60, failure of the serpentine belt can destroy the timing belt.
What happens if I don't replace the timing belt?
If the timing belt breaks or slips while the engine is running, the pistons will collide with the valves, causing bent valves, damaged pistons, and potentially destroying the cylinder head. This is known as catastrophic engine failure and typically costs thousands of dollars to repair, often requiring a complete engine replacement.
🎬 Watch: See the internal damage caused by a broken timing belt.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 31339840 32213096
This is a rubber composite belt with teeth that engage with the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets. The system includes a spring-loaded or hydraulic tensioner and one or more idler pulleys to maintain tension and guide the belt.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Volvo S60: