Volvo Wheb problems

Common Volvo Wheb problems

The Volvo XC90, a popular luxury crossover SUV, has experienced recurring reliability trouble spots despite its many virtues. Here are some of the most common problems reported by drivers and owners:

1. Loss of power steering: The XC60's power steering system has been a sore spot for owners, with complaints of whining noises, difficulty turning, and sudden loss of power assist. Many issues stem from a problem between the steering rack and the power-steering high-pressure line. While Volvo hasn't issued a recall yet, there are still a few steering gremlins they need to address, maybe with the next model refresh, if not sooner.
2. Engine performance issues: XC60 owners don't usually buy these SUVs for speed but expect solid reliability. However, many drivers say they experience stalling, hesitation, or rough idling issues that disrupt the driveability of the XC60. Sources say the 2010 model is the worst culprit for engine problems and carries the highest costs for fixes.
3. Tailgate problems: A huge inconvenience for an SUV owner is not being able to depend on your liftgate working when loaded down with gear. Many XC60 owners tell of broken tailgate motors resulting in lifting arm failure, stiff tailgates, or non-moving tailgates, particularly with models built between 2017 and 2019. By the start of 2019, more than 45,000 vehicles had been recalled because of a safety problem with the tailgate lifting arm separating from the car.
4. Brake issues: In March 2020, Volvo initiated a recall of nearly 750,000 vehicles worldwide due to concerns regarding faulty autonomous emergency braking (AEB). The issue, identified by the Danish motoring body FDM during a road test in late 2019, impacted 736,430 cars globally, including 56,368 in the UK. During testing, the emergency brake on a Volvo XC60 consistently failed to engage when approaching a special test pillow designed to activate it. The affected vehicles remain safe despite this issue, as the regular braking system functions properly. However, verifying whether the recall has been addressed for any car you’re considering for purchase is essential.
5. Excess oil consumption: Volvo engines have a reputation for durability, not gulping down oil between changes. However, some XC60 owners are surprised that their vehicle needs extra oil more frequently, at relatively low mileage. While not alarming, this excess oil burn requires more vigilant checking and top-offs than you might expect.
6. Engine fire risk: Volvo is recalling around 70,000 vehicles in the UK with 2.0-litre diesel engines due to the risk of engine fires. As of now, there is yet to be a solution available. Owners should be vigilant for any unusual odours inside the vehicle, the illumination of the engine warning light, or any hesitation in engine acceleration.
7. Vibrations while driving: Some owners report vibrations when travelling at 40 to 60 MPH, with a common cause being a loose foam insert inside the tyre. Vibrations can stem from other issues, too, with common culprits including imbalanced tyres, worn-out suspension components, or misaligned wheels. Brake problems like warped discs or worn brake pads can also cause vibrations.
8. Seatbelt safety concerns: In 2021, Volvo issued a global recall affecting about 2.2 million cars due to potential safety concerns with the seatbelts. This recall involved replacing the seatbelt pre-tensioners with fixed anchorage points, which some experts argued removed a critical safety feature.

The Volvo XC60 is a popular luxury crossover SUV that Volvo has produced since 2008. Now in its second generation since a redesign in 2017, the XC60 carries on Volvo’s reputation for safety and Scandinavian styling. The current XC60 features Volvo’s signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights and an elegant, modern interior highlighted by a large touchscreen interface. Underneath, it packs turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine options, delivering responsive acceleration and smooth handling. The XC60 offers customers their choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive paired with automatic transmissions for confident driving. It also features advanced driver assistance tech, premium audio, and updated connectivity features. Even basic XC60 models boast leather seating, panoramic moonroofs, four-zone climate control, and hands-free tailgates.

What is the most common problem with Volvos?

Troubleshooting Cooling Fan Issues:

Engine overheating remains one of the most common problems with Volvo cars. But as mentioned previously, this doesn't have to be a costly repair. Typically this comes down to preventative maintenance.

Are Volvos a reliable vehicle?

The experts at RepairPal give the Volvo brand a rating of Above Average for reliability! What's more, only 9% of Volvo repairs are considered severe vs. 12% across all makes and models. That means Volvo vehicles are less prone to need serious service and are more reliable than most vehicles on the road!

Why does Volvo have a bad reputation?

One of the reasons that they are considered unreliable is actually related to the average cost of repairs. When car repair costs are higher the dependability of the vehicle is reduced accordingly. Cars that require fewer repairs, and cost less per garage visit, are the ones considered far more reliable by drivers.

Are Volvos expensive to fix?

A Volvo car might be more expensive to maintain than a non-luxury vehicle. Yet compared to other luxury brands, Volvo service and maintenance costs are on the lower end of the spectrum.