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Model reliability

Volvo Xc60 reliability

The Volvo Xc60 fails its MOT about as often as most cars 6 to 10 years old: 21.6% of 56,517 tests failed in 2023, against 24.4% on average.

Up to 5 years old
11% failed their MOT
Better than most
From 17,548 MOT tests of Volvo Xc60s this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 2× as oftenMechanical brake components3.9% vs 1.8%
Advised 48% more oftenMechanical brake components17.9% vs 12.1%
Advised 49% more oftenTyre condition12.5% vs 8.4%Fix about £90
6 to 10 years old
21.6% failed their MOT
About average
From 56,517 MOT tests of Volvo Xc60s this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 2× as oftenSprings4.9% vs 2.4%Fix about £150
Fails 82% more oftenSteering linkage components2% vs 1.1%
Fails 2× as oftenDirection indicators1.5% vs 0.7%
Advised 2× as oftenRegistration plate lamp(s)4.1% vs 2.1%Fix about £30
Over 10 years old
30.1% failed their MOT
Better than most
From 17,365 MOT tests of Volvo Xc60s this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 2× as oftenSprings8% vs 4.1%Fix about £150
Safety recalls

53 DVSA recalls for the Volvo Xc60

Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.

R/2025/21123 Jun 2025Built 2019–2025BCM2 SW – Safety Notice

Affected vehicles may experience a temporary loss of braking functionality after coasting downhill with ‘B’ mode selected or when using One Pedal Drive. This could potentially lead to a collision.

Fix: Install modified software via an Over the Air (OTA) update.

Recalled models: XC60 · 2,254 vehicles

R/2025/11724 Mar 2025Built 2019–2021SPA1 Cell Modules

On affected vehicles the High Voltage (HV) Battery may have a manufacturing defect which could cause the battery cells to overheat when the HV Battery is fully charged. In a worst-case scenario there is a risk of fire when the vehicle is parked up with a fully charged HV Battery.

Fix: Check and replace the HV Battery if necessary and install modified software.

Recalled models: XC60 · 780 vehicles

R/2024/4465 Nov 2024Built 2019–2020BCM2 – Push Road

The rod connecting the brake pedal to the brake booster may not have been assembled correctly. The final torque might not be according to manufacturing specification due to deviations in the equipment. If the rod does disconnect the mechanical connection between brake pedal and brake booster cannot be guaranteed. In the worst-case scenario if the rod disconnects the brake pedal function cannot be guaranteed

Fix: A Volvo retailer will check and if necessary tighten the rod to correct specification.

Recalled models: XC60 · 970 vehicles

R/2024/12411 Mar 2024Built 2022–2023Seat and Seat Belt Torque

The screw joints for the seats and seat-belts may not have been torqued to the correct specification which means in the event of an impact insufficient protection will be available.

Fix: The solution is to check and adjust the torque.

Recalled models: XC60

R/2023/02524 Jan 2023Built 2022–2023There may be a potential software error in the brake control module.

There may be a potential software error in the brake control module.

Fix: Update the brake control module software.

Recalled models: XC60 · 10,197 vehicles

R/2022/31327 Oct 2022Built 2021–2022A software error may prevent the engine control module from starting the engine

The Engine Control Module (ECM) may prevent the combustion engine from starting.�

Fix: Download updated software.

Recalled models: XC60 · 4,755 vehicles

R/2021/36018 Oct 2021Built 2019Thrust bearing in turbo charger might not be robust enough

The thrust bearing in the turbo charger may not be robust enough.

Fix: Replace turbocharger with a modified version which has an improved thrust bearing.

Recalled models: XC60 · 2,083 vehicles

R/2021/33118 Sept 2021Built 2019–2021Potentially insufficient or missing welding connection in the hydraulic unit of the brake system

There may be an insufficient or missing welding connection in the Hydraulic Unit of the Brake System.

Fix: Replace the Hydraulic Unit.

Recalled models: XC60 · 28 vehicles

R/2021/2057 Jun 2021Built 2018–2020There is a risk that the 15amp fuse could blow which will prevent the low pressure fuel pump from operating

There is a risk that the 15amp fuse could blow which will prevent the low pressure fuel pump operating.

Fix: Replace the 15A fuse with a 20A fuse which can withstand this peak.

Recalled models: XC60 · 14,380 vehicles

R/2021/0017 Jan 2021Built 2020Vehicles may have the supplementary restraint system control unit incorrectly tightened to the car body

Vehicles may have the Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) control unit incorrectly tightened to the car body.

Fix: Inspect and tighten the SRS control unit.

Recalled models: XC60 · 704 vehicles

R/2020/24625 Aug 2020Built 2017–2020Front wiper arm securing nuts may be incorrectly tightened

Vehicles may have incorrectly tightened front wiper arm securing nuts

Fix: Check and tighten the nuts to an increased torque setting.

Recalled models: XC60 · 31,778 vehicles

R/2020/21016 Jul 2020Built 2013–2016There is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system which may result in insufficient cooling of engine components

There is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system which may result in insufficient cooling of engine components.

Fix: Add an extra degassing line (Bleeder Hose) between the cooling system radiator and the cooling system expansion tank which will evacuate the trapped air

Recalled models: XC60 · 76,945 vehicles

R/2020/2058 Jul 2020Built 2012–2016There is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system

There is a risk for trapped air to be in the cooling system which may result in insufficient cooling of engine components.

Fix: Add an extra degassing line (Bleeder Hose) between the cooling system radiator and the cooling system expansion tank which will evacuate the trapped air.

Recalled models: XC60 · 15,167 vehicles

R/2020/1921 Jul 2020Built 2008–2016Potential breakage/fatigue of a flexible steel cable supporting the front seatbelt anchor point

Potential breakage/fatigue of a flexible steel cable supporting the front seatbelt anchor point.

Fix: Replace the seat belt fastener with a new designed seat belt fastening.

Recalled models: XC60 · 170,160 vehicles

R/2020/07316 Mar 2020Built 2019–2020Software issue means that automatic emergency brake system may not engage

The Automatic Emergency Brake System a function of the IntelliSafe system may not always engage increasing the risk of a collision

Fix: Affected vehicles must have new software downloaded

Recalled models: XC60 · 56,385 vehicles

R/2019/45219 Dec 2019Built 2019Possible loss of power whilst driving

Possible loss of power whilst driving.

Fix: Vehicles must have updated software downloaded.

Recalled models: XC60 · 53 vehicles

R/2019/1807 Oct 2019Built 2012–2016The engine's plastic inlet manifold may melt and deform

The engines plastic inlet manifold may melt and deform

Fix: Update vehicles with improved soot reducing software cleaning of TMAP and EMAP. Fit additional hoses where necessary.

Recalled models: XC60

R/2019/02325 Jan 2019Built 2017–2018The tailgate lifting arms may freeze

Under certain conditions in cold climates the tailgate lifting arms may freeze and separate.

Fix: Replace both lifting arms on the tailgate.

Recalled models: XC60 · 13,273 vehicles

R/2018/3774 Jan 2019Built 2015–2016Small cracks on the inside of a rubber fuel hose

Small cracks on the inside of a rubber fuel hose.

Fix: Replacement of affected fuel hoses.

Recalled models: XC60 · 30,777 vehicles

R/2018/31412 Nov 2018Built 2017–2018Possible software issue in the vehicle connectivity module (vcm)

There may be a software issue in the Vehicle Connectivity Module.

Fix: Upgrade software in the Vehicle Connectivity Module.

Recalled models: XC60 · 7,322 vehicles

R/2017/0023 Jan 2017Built 2016One or more airbags may fail to deploy in the event of a collision

It has been identified by the manufacturer that the air-bag initiator does not meet specification. This can therefore result in the initiator not functioning correctly which can lead to none deployment of the air-bag. Should a collision occur then there is an increased risk of injury to the occupants of the vehicle.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to replace the air-bags with a new quality assured component.

Recalled models: XC60 · 1,415 vehicles

R/2016/2571 Nov 2016Built 2015–2016Seatbelt may separate from the buckle

It has been identified there is a possibility the front seatbelt buckle stud may not have been punched correctly during production. This may result in a separation between the buckle and seatbelt bracket if the vehicle is involved in a collision.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to inspect the seatbelt buckle and if required to replace the seatbelt buckle.

Recalled models: XC60 · 47 vehicles

R/2016/1171 Jun 2016Built 2016Driver's airbag module may not deploy as intended

Due to a potential manufacturing defect the gas generator in the driver�s airbag module may not deploy as intended. This may reduce the affectivities of the airbag.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the driver's air bag module.

Recalled models: XC60 · 123 vehicles

R/2016/02719 Feb 2016Built 2015–2016Stalling and loss of steering power assistance

Involved vehicles may have a software issue which could cause the engine to momentarily cut-out and restart while driving. This could also cause disturbances in some electrical systems such as shut down of the instrument cluster infotainment system and loss of power steering assistance.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and upgrade the software of the control units.

Recalled models: XC60 · 7,237 vehicles

R/2015/25318 Jan 2016Built 2014–2015Fuel guage may not show fuel level correctly

Fuel gauge may not show correct level

Fix: The remedy is not yet available for all models. Until a remedy is available the manufacturer advises to maintain fuel level above approx one third.

Recalled models: XC60 · 1,109 vehicles

R/2015/25421 Dec 2015Built 2014–2015Fuel guage may not show fuel level correctly

Fuel gauge may not show correct level

Fix: The remedy is not yet available for all models.. Until a remedy is available the manufacturer advises to maintain fuel level above approx one third.

Recalled models: XC60 · 2,743 vehicles

R/2015/24916 Dec 2015Built 2014–2015Fuel guage may not show fuel level correctly

Fuel gauge may not show correct level

Fix: Dependent on affected Model update software. Until updated the manufacturer advises to maintain fuel level above approx one third.

Recalled models: XC60 · 5,354 vehicles

R/2015/20527 Oct 2015Built 2015Engine may fail

Affected vehicles may have a crankshaft that has been insufficiently hardened which may fail and nay cause engine failure.

Fix: Check identity of crankshaft. If the relevant marking is not present then replace engine.

Recalled models: XC60 · 9 vehicles

R/2015/20423 Oct 2015Engine may fail

The crankshaft may not have been sufficiently hardened and may fail this in turn can lead to sudden and catastrophic engine failure. The failure may be preceded by loss of power and a knocking noise.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the engine.

Recalled models: XC60 · 5 vehicles

R/2015/04019 Feb 2015Built 2011–2015Parking brake may unintentionally release

Vehicles with manual gearboxes and start/stop functionality have Parking Brake Module (PBM) software that may allow the parking brake to unintentionally release. The unintended release of the parking brake can only occur when the engine is running and the gearstick moved so it will happen when the vehicle is attended.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to download upgraded Parking Brake Module (PBM) software.

Recalled models: XC60 · 2,146 vehicles

R/2013/14028 Nov 2013Loss of power steering assistance

The auxiliary drive belt tensioner can suffer from premature wear which may cause it to fail. This can lead to loss of steering power assistance and a slight possibility of loss of drive should the drive belt or tensioner invade the cambelt area.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the auxiliary drive belt and tensioner.

Recalled models: XC60 · 3,134 vehicles

R/2012/05624 Apr 2012Engine may fail

There could be a sudden and unexpected failure of the bottom end of the engine because of a non-conformity during production of the connecting rods.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the engine.

Recalled models: XC60 · 6 vehicles

R/2012/03213 Mar 2012Built 2012Fuel may leak

Some vehicles may have had excessive underbody protection applied which when drying. could have formed small stalactite shaped formations. These formations may have formed close to the underbody fuel lines and could damage them and cause a fuel leak. Due to the positioning of the fuel lines escaping fuel or fuel vapour could potentially lead to a fire.

Fix: Inspect all vehicles and cut any stalactite shaped formations off. If the fuel line is damaged it will be replaced. Only 1% of vehicles are expected to have any damage to the fuel line.

Recalled models: XC60 · 481 vehicles

R/2012/0287 Mar 2012Airbags may not deploy in a collision

It has been identified that the wiring harness for the SRS system may not have been correctly attached to the front seat frames. It is possible that continued adjustment of the seat position may cause the harness to become detached. If this should occur a warning light will illuminate on the instrument panel warning the driver of a fault with the SRS system. However in this condition the front and side airbags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a collision.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles for an inspection of the wiring harnesses and ensure that it is correctly routed and secured. If not then reroute and securing of the wiring harness.

Recalled models: XC60 · 9,330 vehicles

R/2011/17523 Dec 2011Built 2007–2009Engine may loose drive and power steering assistance.

The auxiliary drive belt tensioner may fail. This can lead to loss of steering power assistance and a slight possibility of loss of drive should the drive belt or tensioner invade the cambelt area.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the auxiliary drive belt and tensioner.

Recalled models: XC60 · 7,302 vehicles

R/2011/1353 Oct 2011Built 2009–2010Possibility of loss of drive

The auxiliary drive belt tensioner may fail. If the tensioner fails it would cause a loss of power steering assistance and possible loss of drive.

Fix: Replace the auxiliary drive belt tensioner.

Recalled models: XC60 · 9,936 vehicles

R/2011/00214 Jan 2011Engine may run on

It is possible in certain circumstances for the engine oil level to rise above the maximum level. This situation could lead to engine speed being maintained or possibly increased after the throttle pedal is released. In extreme cases the engine could continue to run after it has been switched off.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to adjust the engine oil level and carry out a software upgrade.

Recalled models: XC60 · 4,787 vehicles

R/2010/23322 Dec 2010Passenger seat may not be fitted correctly

It is possible that the driver's and passenger's front powered seats may not be fitted with the front stop lug. The lug restricts the movement of the seats and if not fitted it is possible to position the seats too far forward or backwards. This could increase the chances of injury should the vehicle be involved in an accident.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to inspect for fitment of the lugs and if found to be missing fit new lugs.

Recalled models: XC60 · 103 vehicles

R/2010/2243 Dec 2010Fire may occur

On certain five cylinder engines it is possible that the high pressure fuel pipes may not have been correctly installed and may leak. This should be identified by a smell of fuel from the engine bay. However it is possible that in extreme cases an engine bay fire could occur.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the high pressure pipes.

Recalled models: XC60 · 845 vehicles

R/2010/21526 Nov 2010Engine may cut out

When driving at low speeds a fault within the software calibration of the engine and transmission control modules may lead to a drop in the engine idle speed when braking or releasing the accelerator. In extreme cases this may result in the engine cutting out without warning.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to upgrade the engine/transmission software.

Recalled models: XC60 · 64 vehicles

R/2010/21124 Nov 2010Airbag curtain may not deploy correctly

The inflatable curtain may have been fitted incorrectly which could prevent it from deploying as intended.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check and where necessary adjust the curtain.

Recalled models: XC60 · 20 vehicles

R/2010/2015 Nov 2010Engine speed may increase without warning.

It is possible that the engine oil level may rise above its maximum level due to overfilling and/or dilution by fuel. This may result in the engine speed being maintained or possibly increased after the throttle pedal has been released. In extreme cases it is possible that the engine may continue to run after it has been switched off.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and carry out an Engine Control Module software upgrade and adjust the engine oil. The new ECM upgrade will improve adaption of different blends of fuel and include a dashboard text warning message if the oil level reaches too high a level.

Recalled models: XC60 · 4,430 vehicles

R/2010/16518 Oct 2010Airbag may not deploy as intended.

It is possible that an electrical short circuit within a connector could result in the illumination of the Airbag System Service Required message and Supplemental Restraint System warning lamp on the dashboard. Should this occur the driver's airbag would not deploy as intended if the vehicle is involved in a collision.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check and rework the connector.

Recalled models: XC60 · 6,844 vehicles

R/2010/09916 Jul 2010Engine may seize

On effected petrol and diesel engines a spring clamp on the radiator hose connecting it to the water inlet pipe may be insecure. If not rectified the engine may lose coolant overheat seize and suddenly slow the vehicle rapidly to a halt.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to have the radiator hose adequately secured.

Recalled models: XC60 · 326 vehicles

R/2010/07111 Jun 2010Gearbox may jam

A section of the gear shift mechanism may over time become loose and cause the mechanism to become jammed. If this was to occur it might not be possible to change gear or select neutral.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check that the ball joint for the gear selector is properly secured.

Recalled models: XC60 · 6,961 vehicles

R/2010/05826 May 2010Engine may loose drive and power steering assistance.

The auxiliary drive belt tensioner may fail. This can lead to loss of steering power assistance and a slight possibility of loss of drive should the drive belt or tensioner invade the cambelt area.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the auxiliary drive belt and tensioner.

Recalled models: XC60 · 4,673 vehicles

R/2010/05112 May 2010Engine speed may not decrease

The engine oil level may rise. This situation may lead to the engine speed being maintained or possibly increased after the throttle pedal is released. In an extreme situation the engine may continue to run after it has been switched off.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles and carry out a ECM software upgrade adjust engine oil level and install a decal to confirm oil level to the consumer.

Recalled models: XC60 · 20,204 vehicles

R/2010/0275 Mar 2010Power steering fluid may leak - risk of fire

It has been identified that a joint between the power steering high pressure lines and the steering gear may not have been assembled correctly. This may result in a power steering hydraulic fluid leak and a sudden loss of steering assistance. Due to the pressure within the hydraulic system hydraulic fluid may be sprayed onto the engine with the attendant risk of fire.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will check the subject joint and if necessary replace any cross threaded bolt. At the same time the joint will be modified.

Recalled models: XC60 · 3,898 vehicles

R/2009/14815 Dec 2009Fuel may leak

It has been identified that the fuel rail beneath the vehicle that protects the fuel line may not be properly attached thereby exposing the fuel lines to possible damage.

Fix: Recalled vehicle will have the security of the subject rail checked. It will be secured if this is seen to be necessary.

Recalled models: XC60 · 1,727 vehicles

R/2009/13323 Nov 2009Seat belt may detach

Under certain side impact scenarios the side panel on the driver's seat may contact the quick fix seatbelt release button and the belt may detach.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles to modify the side panel.

Recalled models: XC60 · 1 vehicles

R/2009/0882 Sept 2009Engine may stall

It has been identified thatthe fuel pump electronic module may not operate as intended. This can result in failure of the fuel pump to start. Should this occur the vehicle may suffer a non start rough running or in the worst case the engine may stall without prior warning. Investigation has shown that it may be possible to drive the vehicle for up to 100 m before the fault manifests itself.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the software within the central electronic module upgraded.

Recalled models: XC60 · 254 vehicles

R/2009/06317 Jun 2009Engine cooling fan may fail

It has been identified that due to a software issue with the engine cooling fan control module the air conditioning performance may be reduced and the engine coolant temperature may increase. This will result in warning messages being displayed. In extreme cases if the driver does not heed the warnings the engine may fail.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the cooling fan control module replaced.

Recalled models: XC60 · 4,006 vehicles

R/2009/0142 Feb 2009Towing eye may not be capable of being correctly fitted

It has been identified that the front bumper energy absorber may be partially covering the aperture through which the towing eye is fixed. Customers will discover that it is not possible to fit the towing eye following removal of the bumper towing eye cover.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have a section of the bumper energy absorbing material removed thus allowing full access to the towing eye aperture.

Recalled models: XC60 · 91 vehicles

DVSA vehicle safety recalls (Crown copyright, Open Government Licence).

Checking a Volvo Xc60 before you buy

Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.

Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests 2023 (Open Government Licence v3.0). Failure rates compare this model with all cars in the same age band. Fix prices are typical independent-garage estimates.
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