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: 2021
We've had our fair share of cars, including a Jeep Grand Cherokee, VW GTI and Sportwagen, BMW 3 series and more, but the Volvo XC40 takes the cake. When it was time to replace our 11-year-old Jeep, we were considering the XC90, but felt a little guilty about it since we live in the city and didn't really need all that space 99% of the time. The XC60 was nice, but we really clicked with the XC40 because it doesn't feel any less nice than the 60, just more compact. It doesn't have as many features, but it has everything we need. Driving the XC40 is a dream - it's sporty like a GTI but a lot less bumpy, which is great for the beat-up roads in Brooklyn. The Polestar adds a little more sportiness without sacrificing anything, and the additional torque in the mid-range is a nice touch. We love it even more than the 3 series, and my wife and I are constantly arguing over who gets to drive it. Safety is a top priority for Volvo, and the XC40 is no exception. The safety features are incredible, and it gives us peace of mind when driving in the city with bikers, pedestrians, cabs, and more. The infotainment system is relatively easy to use after a few days, despite the tablet-like setup. The only thing we wish it had were a few more physical buttons for the climate control. Overall, we highly recommend the Volvo XC40!After going through the initial learning curve, you'll realize that you have the ability to customize a lot and we absolutely love it. We rated it 4 stars because of the initial learning curve, but it's not far off from being great. The first thing you'll notice is that Volvo put thought into everything from the materials to storage and designs. It feels like a much more expensive car. The panoramic moonroof, the materials, seat cushion extensions, 8-way front seats (both!), and lighting options are just scratching the surface. We also love that the car knows when it's me or my wife and remembers our preferences for the seat, mirrors, and more with the two keys we use. The front seats are great, and the seat cushion extension is perfect for my 6'2
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Vehicle year: 2020
I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your XC40 2020! It sounds like it has some great features, such as good power and torque, and a comfortable interior with plenty of headroom. It's also great to hear that it handles well in winter conditions with the Gislaved NORD*FROST tires. Overall, it seems like a practical and reliable car for both short and long trips, especially for two people with dogs or kids in the back. Thanks for sharing your experience!
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Vehicle year: 2019
The XC40 met all of your requirements! It's a subcompact size (perfect for downsizing from a regular SUV), has an uncluttered roomy interior, a streamlined touch screen, cool driver assist features, and a phone charger/USB connection. While there is a learning curve, you won't be overwhelmed with the touch screen device or the tech features. This is a fun car to drive, with easy handling and maneuverability. You've been getting 27 MPG with Economy Drive mode. Keep enjoying your ride!
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Vehicle year: 2024
I completely agree with another reviewer that the HVAC is very quiet and effective. It's super easy to change the temperature or other options with just a couple of taps. In the R Design, the materials are excellent and it feels minimalist yet high quality. I love all the thoughtful storage compartments and the built-in trash can. It's really fun to drive, and in the normal comfort mode, I get slightly better than advertised mileage. I have experienced a small issue where occasionally the car doesn’t recognize the remote, but pushing the lock or unlock button resolves it. I have an appointment next week to take it in for investigation. I also wish it had wireless CarPlay, but I found a great adapter and it works flawlessly.
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Vehicle year: 2021
We purchased our 2019 Volvo XC40 through Volvo's overseas delivery program, which we highly recommend exploring. During our 3000-mile trip in Sweden and Norway, the car functioned perfectly with no problems. The car is very responsive and reasonably quiet, and the interior appointments are luxurious. We especially appreciated the little touches, such as the bag hook on the glove box, the many cubbies, the drawer under the driver's seat, and the trash basket in the center armrest. While the storage behind the back seat is smaller than in our previous Subaru, it is still very adequate and the configuration in our model is perfect. Volvo's site has several configuration options that you should check out. We achieved over 30 miles to the gallon (US) of gas, which was great. The seats are very comfortable both front and back, and the computer is similar to the one in Tesla in terms of the screen and computer-like operation style. Once we adjusted, we became more comfortable with it. The car has numerous safety features, including parking assist, highway driving assistant, and a 360-degree camera, which are all excellent. Overall, we are extremely pleased with the car, and it is certainly a major upgrade from our Subaru, which we also enjoyed.
Are you having problems with your Volvo Xc40?
Matteo Jast 2025-03-29
Vehicle year: 2022
I really enjoyed my previous Volvos, but unfortunately my latest xc40 had some issues with the anti-collision feature that caused some scary moments. Despite multiple visits to the dealer, the issue persisted and Volvo customer service was not able to provide a satisfactory solution. It was a disappointing experience, especially since safety is a top priority for me and my family. As a result, I decided to switch to a different luxury brand. However, I still appreciate the attention to detail and reliability that Volvo is known for.
Dudley Grimes 2025-03-25
Vehicle year: 2021
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.
Branson Farrell 2025-03-21
Vehicle year: 2021
Hi there! I recently purchased a Volvo XC40 T5 R-Design and unfortunately, I've had a bit of trouble with my windshield. In just six weeks, I've had three pebbles/stones hit my windshield, even though I was only traveling at 35 mph on paved roads. I never drive on gravel roads, so I was quite surprised. The second incident occurred while I was waiting for over 30 days for a windshield replacement. The first two hits caused cracks across the entire windshield, and now I have a third smaller one on the replacement. I did some research and found other owners online with similar problems. I reached out to Volvo USA to see if there was something wrong with either the production of the glass, installation, or the aerodynamics of the vehicle. Unfortunately, I was disappointed that the dealership was hands off and shocked to receive push back from Volvo USA. They claimed it was normal wear and tear and there was nothing they could do for me. The cost to replace the windshield is $1770 because cameras and sensors also have to be replaced and calibrated. I am waiting to hear how much the insurance company will pay for this claim. I won't hold my breath that I will receive much of the $675 in labor fees. I think it would be great if Volvo offered a one year glass protection plan where they do repairs for free. This would enable them to evaluate the issue and show that they stand behind their product. Unfortunately, they have treated me like a crazy person attempting to get something for nothing, which is not the case at all. It's been an expensive seven months of Volvo new car ownership, especially with the $375 repair fee for the wheels. I plan to sell and cut my losses, but I hope that Volvo can improve their customer service in the future.
Crawford Roob 2025-03-19
Vehicle year: 2019
This is my first Volvo and I was so excited for it to arrive after ordering it earlier this year. It's a beautiful car, sporty, and technology-rich. However, I have had some issues with it in the few short months I've owned it. Within a week, I received a notification that the airbag system had failed. Although they replaced the sensor, the same problem came back two weeks later. They had my car for almost a month trying to fix it. Now, a month later, the same sensor has failed, I get notifications about the brake system failing, one tire pressure sensor is faulty, and various interior panels keep popping off. I am currently working with Volvo to get them to buy my car back as part of Michigan's lemon law. It's disappointing, but I am hopeful that we can come to a resolution. Despite these issues, I still appreciate the beauty and technology of the car.
Leopoldo Connelly 2025-03-14
Vehicle year: 2024
I really like the XC40 but gas mileage is subpar. I'm averaging about 13 mpg city and 23 mpg highway for a combined average of about 20 mpg on each tank of gas. However, the car has some great technology and features, and it's comfortable to sit in and fun to drive.