Volvo Xc40 problems
The Volvo XC40 is a subcompact luxury crossover SUV (C-segment) manufactured by Volvo Cars. It was unveiled on 21 September 2017 as the smallest SUV model from Volvo, below the XC60. Orders started in September 2017, and manufacturing began in November 2017.
Aside with conventional petrol and diesel engines, a plug-in hybrid model was introduced in 2019, and a battery electric vehicle model was released in 2020. Both the plug-in hybrid and the battery electric versions were marketed as the XC40 Recharge. In 2024, Volvo renamed the battery electric XC40 to the Volvo EX40, aligning it with newer battery electric models such as the EX30 and the EX90.
A coupe version of the battery electric model with a sloping rear roof was released in 2021 as the C40 Recharge. It was renamed to the Volvo EC40 since 2024.
The XC40 was given the European Car of the Year Award at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. and the car was named Car of the Year Japan for 2018/2019.
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Volvo Xc40 model years
Common Volvo Xc40 problems
The Volvo XC40, a subcompact luxury crossover SUV, has been praised for its design and features since its introduction in 2017. However, like any vehicle, it has faced certain common issues that have been reported by owners.
One of the most frequently reported problems is related to the handbrake, which sometimes fails to hold the car, particularly when parked. This issue can be intermittent and may not pose a significant safety risk, but it can be frustrating for owners.
Another common problem is related to the indicator system, where the left indicator may display a fault message. This issue has been addressed by reloading software, but it has been reported to reoccur after a few weeks.
Some owners have also reported a drone noise on braking, which has been attributed to the B3 mild hybrid system. While this noise has been reported to decrease over time, it can still be an annoyance for some drivers.
The 360 reverse camera has also been a source of frustration for some XC40 owners. In some cases, the camera has displayed a dark screen on reverse, requiring a loan car while the issue was being addressed. While Volvo has provided an OTA update to resolve this issue, it has not been successful in all cases, leading to ongoing complaints.
In addition to these specific issues, there have been reports of minor electronic glitches, particularly with the infotainment system and electronic driver aids. These faults, while not affecting the vehicle's drivability, have caused inconvenience for some owners.
The Volvo XC40 has also faced reliability concerns, with the brand consistently ranking low in J.D. Power's list for long-term reliability. The XC40's two bigger brothers, the XC60 and XC90, are also known for their unreliability, which may be a cause for concern for potential buyers.
Overall, while the Volvo XC40 has been praised for its design and features, it has faced certain common issues that have been reported by owners. These issues range from minor electronic glitches to more significant problems with the handbrake and indicator system. Additionally, concerns about long-term reliability may be a factor for potential buyers to consider.
Is the Volvo XC40 a reliable car?
The 2024 Volvo XC40 has a predicted reliability score of 72 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What is the best year for the XC40?
There are many top-notch years available for the Volvo XC40. We recommend 2020, 2021, 2022, or 2023 used versions for maximum time on the road and minimal time in the repair shop.
What is the most common problem with the 2024 Volvo XC40?
A common problem with the 2024 Volvo XC40 is the handbrake not securely holding the car and the collision avoidance system malfunctioning.
Is XC40 a good buy?
Why should I buy a Volvo XC40? The XC40 is a brilliant family SUV that offers a great mix of performance, practicality, comfort and interior quality. In short, it's definitely worth putting on your shortlist. Which is the best engine for the Volvo XC40?
Latest 5 recalls Volvo Xc40
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 12 recalls for different components of the Volvo Xc40.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volvo Xc40 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-01-10
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2024 XC40 vehicles. A diagnostic error in the Central Electronic Module (CEM) software may cause the left rear turn signal indicator to not function.
- Consequence: A nonfunctioning exterior turn signal may not notify other drivers of a turning vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: The CEM software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 16, 2024. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10256.
- Model: Volvo Xc40 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-03-22
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 S60, V60CC, XC60, XC90, XC40, and C40 vehicles. A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) may be falsely detected for the emergency call system (e-call) and display "e-Call Service Required" in the driver information module (DIM).
- Consequence: The false warning message could prevent the detection of an actual e-call system failure, which could delay an emergency response during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the telematics and connectivity antenna module (TCAM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10225.
- Model: Volvo Xc40 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-01-19
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 S60, V60, V60CC, V90CC, XC60, XC90, XC40, and C40 vehicles. A diagnostic error in the Brake Control Module 2 (BCM2) may cause a loss of Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and traction control.
- Consequence: A reduction in brake support functions can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Volvo will release an over-the-air (OTA) BCM2 software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 15, 2023. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10217.
- Model: Volvo Xc40 2021
- Report Received Date: 2021-11-12
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2021 XC40 BEV vehicles. A bolt that secures the cross-member bracket for the electrical motor in the engine compartment may be loose or missing.
- Consequence: A loose or missing bolt may decrease the structural protection of the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the cross-member bracket and install new bracket bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 16, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R10128.
- Model: Volvo Xc40 2021
- Report Received Date: 2021-09-01
- Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
- Summary: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 XC40, XC 40 Recharge, V60CC, V90, V90CC, XC90, and 2021-2022 V60, XC60, S60 vehicles. The seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 13, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10111.
Latest negative Volvo Xc40 car reviews
Latest positive Volvo Xc40 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2020
There's so much to love about this car, and I'd like to share a few of my favorite features that you might not have noticed. Firstly, the storage options are fantastic - there's even a hidden tray under the driver's seat that locks closed to keep your valuables safe. Plus, the passenger seat has a perfectly sized shelf for the owner's manual, freeing up the glove box for anything you want to keep cool. Secondly, the headlights are a real standout feature, turning with the steering wheel to illuminate curves and with an auto on/off feature for the high beams. Living on rural roads, I find this feature particularly useful. Thirdly, the paddle shifters are a great way to save wear on the brakes, and the car will automatically revert to the correct gear when the RPMs become unstable. Finally, the gas cap is a thing of the past - just open the door, fill up, and close it when you're done. Overall, this car is packed with thoughtful features that make it a joy to drive.No need to fumble with a dirty gas cap. The rearview mirror is often overlooked, but I find the design quite appealing. Can you call a rearview mirror sexy? Well, I just did. The resolution on the cameras, especially on the huge display screen, is crisp and beautiful. The 360-degree camera, which uses four cameras around the car to provide an aerial view of the surroundings, is a really cool feature. There's no excuse for parking badly in this car. I'll stop there, but I could go on.
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Vehicle year: 2020
The engine and transmission deliver an extremely powerful performance, while the handling is reasonable. The ride is excellent for its size and the seats are comfortable for a 2-hour trip. We did not have the opportunity to take longer jaunts. The car has great mileage, but it requires premium gas. It's worth noting that there is no 87 octane gasoline in Europe, and although the computer will allow the engine to work with low-quality gas, it will not be as efficient or powerful as with the recommended gas. One area that could be improved is the outward visibility, as the car seems to have blind spots.
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Vehicle year: 2024
I have a Momentum T5 AWD. In response to the earlier review, I don't think the XC40 can be compared to a Mazda or BMW X1. If you're looking for performance, the T5 (248 hp) is the way to go. With premium gas, I can go from 0-60 in 5 seconds. The interior has a very Scandinavian feel to it, with clean lines and a solid, utilitarian design. While the heating can be a bit noisy and the transmission a bit hesitant, the safety features have saved me from close calls with pedestrians and cyclists on busy city streets. It's not perfect, but it's pretty close.
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Vehicle year: 2023
This little car has an amazing amount of safety technology for the price. Some things do require an extra package, but many other cars in this price range don’t even have similar options. The engine has a wow factor too; it will push you into the seat a bit. The upgraded stereo is also worth doing if you can. Update: I'm still loving it!
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Vehicle year: 2019
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Are you having problems with your Volvo Xc40?
Angelo Robel 2025-01-03
Vehicle year: 2019
I've had the car for just two months and unfortunately, it has already been to the dealer twice, despite having less than 1000 miles on it. I must say that my experience with Volvo's roadside assistance has been the worst I have ever encountered. It seems like this car was not ready for production and delivery, and it appears to not have been inspected. Needless to say, I am extremely disappointed.
Douglas Harvey 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 2022
I've owned this car for two years now and unfortunately, it has been in the shop at least eight times. Recently, we had to rent a car for two weeks to keep our vacation reservations due to a 'propulsion system failure' that limited the car's speed to only 22 miles per hour. Despite our disappointment, we have not received any satisfactory response from Volvo. They simply told us that the car is now working, without addressing the root of the problem. Even after towing the car to the dealership, no one took the time to inspect it. As a result, we feel completely let down. This was our third Volvo purchase, but we will not be making another one in the future.
Louisa Kemmer 2024-11-24
Vehicle year: 2022
Drives well with nice performance, but unfortunately, it falls short of the luxury offered by competing brands. The navigation system could use some improvement, and the voice control feature often fails to recognize commands. Additionally, adjusting the AC fan can be a bit cumbersome, requiring multiple clicks and resulting in inconsistent fan strength. Despite these minor issues, the car has some great features and drives smoothly. However, these small inconveniences are starting to add up, and I am not sure if I will keep it after the lease.
Jordon Blick 2024-11-23
Vehicle year: 2024
The infotainment system, navigation, and weather app have room for improvement. Safety features could also benefit from further development. The petrol version's fuel economy is not as efficient as expected. Comfort and visibility are average. Overall, there is potential for improvement in various areas. However, I will be returning to BMW once my lease is up.
Pedro Bogisich 2024-11-14
Vehicle year: 2024
Other than the touchscreen feature, the car has been pretty good and I like it. My wife likes it too. However, I do prefer having a knob that I can quickly and safely manipulate without having to be distracted from watching the road. It would make driving a lot easier and safer.