2020 Volvo Xc40 problems

volvo logo

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.

2020 Volvo Xc40

Social links

Common 2020 Volvo Xc40 problems

The 2020 Volvo XC40 has been praised for its safety features and overall reliability

. However, some common problems have been reported by owners, which are detailed below.

  1. Brake problems: The XC40 has been recalled twice due to brake issues. Some drivers have reported that the brakes do not work properly or at all. A few owners complained that the XC40 needed three brake pad replacements by the time vehicles have driven about 30000 miles. Even after that, the vehicles' excessive warping required another brake pad replacement for every wheel .
  2. Power loss: High-voltage disconnect causes power loss. This can cause the engine to suddenly stop or not start. Possible solutions include checking the battery and the electrical system for any faults. If the power loss occurs while driving, try to pull over safely and restart the engine .
  3. Water leaks: Water leaks cause accelerator problems. Water can get into the gas pedal and cause it to stick or malfunction. Possible solutions include checking the floor mats and carpets for any signs of water damage. If the accelerator gets stuck, try to lift it with your foot or turn off the cruise control .
  4. Driving assistance issues: Pilot assist turns off without warning. This can create a safety hazard, especially at high speeds. Possible solutions include checking the windshield and the camera for any dirt or obstructions. If the pilot assist turns off, take over the steering and braking manually .
  5. GPS problem: GPS location is not sent in case of a crash. This can make it harder for emergency services or tow trucks to find you. Possible solutions include checking the settings and the network connection of your Volvo On Call app. If you are involved in a crash, try to call 911 or use the SOS button in your car. Contact the dealer or Volvo customer service for assistance .
  6. Seatbelt malfunction: Several 2020 XC40 owners expressed dissatisfaction over the driver's side seatbelt's malfunction and crash mode. The front passenger was thus nearly suffocated by the seatbelt as it tightened. The owners expressed their worry about the issue and said it might result in a serious collision .

In addition to these specific issues, some owners have reported problems with the wireless charging pad, tailgate release and rear camera, tailgate drain hole rusting, fragile key fob, sport key sustainability, app subscription expiration, lava orange getting dirty, exterior chrome worse for wear, cargo cover cords, and suspension clunking noises

. These issues, while not as widespread as the ones mentioned above, can still affect the overall ownership experience.

It is important to note that not all 2020 Volvo XC40 owners have experienced these problems, and many have reported having positive experiences with the vehicle. However, being aware of these common issues can help potential buyers make informed decisions and take necessary precautions when purchasing or maintaining their XC40s.

2020 Volvo Xc40 engine

Is the 2020 Volvo XC40 reliable?

The 2020 Volvo XC40 has a predicted reliability score of 71 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 are the most common problems with Volvo XC40?

What are the most common problems with a used Volvo XC40 estate?

  • Software issue. A problem was found with the vehicle connectivity module (VCM) that sends location information to the emergency services after a collision. ...
  • Rear seatbacks. ...
  • Brake booster.

How many miles will Volvo XC40 last?

200,000 miles

How many miles does a 2024 Volvo XC40 last? A Volvo XC40 compact SUV can last up to 200,000 miles or even more when it is treated to routine maintenance and preventive service over its lifetime.

Is the Volvo XC40 expensive to repair?

The average annual repair cost for a Volvo is $769, which means it has above average ownership costs.

Is the 2020 Volvo XC40 reliable?

The 2020 Volvo XC40 has a predicted reliability score of 71 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 are the most common problems with Volvo XC40?

What are the most common problems with a used Volvo XC40 estate?

  • Software issue. A problem was found with the vehicle connectivity module (VCM) that sends location information to the emergency services after a collision. ...
  • Rear seatbacks. ...
  • Brake booster.

Is the Volvo XC40 expensive to repair?

The average annual repair cost for a Volvo is $769, which means it has above average ownership costs.

How many miles will Volvo XC40 last?

200,000 miles

How many miles does a 2024 Volvo XC40 last? A Volvo XC40 compact SUV can last up to 200,000 miles or even more when it is treated to routine maintenance and preventive service over its lifetime.

2020 Volvo Xc40 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Volvo Xc40.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2020 Volvo Xc40 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2020 Volvo Xc40.

2020-03-12
  • Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA LLC
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
  • Summary: Volvo Cars USA LLC (Volvo Cars) is recalling certain 2019-2020 S60, V60, V60 Cross Country, S90L, V90, V90 Cross Country, XC40, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. Due to a software/hardware incompatibility, the Automatic Emergency Brake (AEB) system may not detect obstacles and engage as intended.
  • Consequence: If the automatic emergency braking system does not engage as intended, it can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will update the Active Safety Domain Master (ASDM) software, free of charge. The recall began April 9, 2020. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R29998.

Negative 2020 Volvo Xc40 car reviews

  1. Julius Langworth 2024-11-08

    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.

  2. Arturo Klocko 2024-09-21

    The engine occasionally stops when waiting at traffic lights, despite not being in eco mode. This occurs about 1 in 20 times and can be resolved by restarting the engine. On a couple of occasions, the electronic brake did not release when attempting to reverse off the driveway, but eventually released with a loud noise. The need to hold down the boot open switch on the key for a period of time can be frustrating, especially when compared to my previous car, the Discovery Sport. When reversing up my sloped driveway with a full load, I noticed some difficulty with the clutch, but it did not burn out. Additionally, it is important to be gentle when driving off from a stationary position to avoid spinning the front wheels. Overall, I am satisfied with the VC40, but I do miss the 4x4 capability of the Discovery Sport. However, the Discovery Sport was not suitable for my short journeys across town due to filter problems.

  3. Felix Crona 2024-04-28

    Well made, drives well, and is very peppy with great steering. It's also easy to park, making it a great city car. However, I did find that the seats in the Inscription model were only comfortable for less than an hour. Additionally, there was a noticeable vibration between 78-85 km per hour.

  4. Toy O'Reilly 2024-02-21

    The car is quite heavy and can feel like driving a tank, which may not be enjoyable for some. It does use a fair amount of gas and unfortunately, the Apple Play feature stopped working after only a month. It may not be worth spending extra money on navigation as it requires a postal address for most locations. The air-conditioning can be a bit too warm, even for those who tend to run cold, but the interior is comfortable. Overall, I have some concerns about the chassis and other features, and I am considering switching to a Mazda CX-5. I wonder if that would be a better fit for me.

  5. Brandt Hodkiewicz 2024-02-07

    Although I am not fond of writing negative reviews, I must express my disappointment with this car. I regret not keeping my Honda CRV Touring instead. The heating and cooling controls are confusing, despite reading the owner's manual to set my preferences. Additionally, the car uses premium gas, which I was not aware of prior to leasing, and it has a smaller capacity than my CRV. Furthermore, I will never again get a car without a retractable trunk cover. The hardcover in my Volvo is impractical and uncomfortable to touch. However, the car is visually appealing, has a good sound system, and drives well. Nonetheless, I preferred driving my CRV. I am taking the car in next week to repair a recall issue and to check for a potential leak near the front of the car. It is unfortunate as I have driven the car for less than 8,000 miles.

Positive 2020 Volvo Xc40 car reviews

  1. Don Bashirian 2025-01-08

    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.

  2. Landen Ratke 2025-01-07

    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.

  3. Jaydon Howe 2024-11-01

    Great quality and solid SUV. Quick, comfortable and solid vehicle. Very attractive exterior and interior.

  4. Mathias Cronin 2024-10-26

    My wife traded in her 2015 Porsche Macan S for this 2019 Volvo XC40 and I have to admit, I wasn't thrilled at first. However, after taking it on a road trip from Atlanta to Key West, I was pleasantly surprised. Despite the rain on our first day, the XC40 performed wonderfully and the color combination of Amazon Blue and white top looked even better in the Florida sunshine. The car turned heads everywhere we went and even I couldn't resist calling it my wife's 'Pretty Girl'. What really impressed me was the 'Auto-pilot' feature, which allowed me to drive straight from Naples to Atlanta without feeling fatigued. The XC40's tracking was incredible and it kept me safe on the road. Overall, I highly recommend giving this car a try and experiencing its many features for yourself.

  5. Derek Volkman 2024-10-24

    I have owned Volvos for years, from a wagon, a soft top convertible, a hard top convertible, 2 XC90s, and now the Inscription XC40. All I can say is that they are perfect. They are beautiful, reliable, and modern - just perfect!

Leave your review of 2020 Volvo Xc40

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2020 Volvo Xc40 problems:

Buying a Xc40 2020 - Volvo XC40 Forums
Buying a Xc40 2020 - Volvo XC40 Forums
https://www.xc40forums.co.uk/viewtopic.php?t=3652

Hi, first time of buying a volvo, I have been doing some research about common faults and I've read the following common faults on the 2020 - 21 models.

2020 Volvo XC40 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2020 Volvo XC40 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/volvo/xc40/2020/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2020 Volvo XC40? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

Volvo reliability on an XC40 : r/Volvo
Volvo reliability on an XC40 : r/Volvo
https://www.reddit.com/r/Volvo/comments/12nswkk/volvo_reliability_on_an_xc40/

Apr 16, 2023 ... Generally very reliable. You do hear the odd story of what seems to be an 'unlucky' owner, but I'm a main dealer Tech and we see very few issues ...

I hate this car | Volvo XC40 Forum
I hate this car | Volvo XC40 Forum
https://www.xc40forum.com/threads/i-hate-this-car.2508/

Oct 7, 2020 ... I have had my XC 40 since December, 2019. There have been recalls and problems but my general impression is a poorly made car when I had ...

2020 Volvo XC40 Reliability - Consumer Reports
2020 Volvo XC40 Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volvo/xc40/2020/reliability/

Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Electrical Accessories · In-car Electronics · Engine Major · Drive System · Brakes · Steering And Suspension · Climate System.

Other years of Volvo Xc40

volvo xc40 2021 photo
Xc40 2021
Volvo

0

3

14

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc40 2022 photo
Xc40 2022
Volvo

0

1

17

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc40 2023 photo
Xc40 2023
Volvo

0

2

15

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc40 2024 photo
Xc40 2024
Volvo

0

1

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc40 2019 photo
Xc40 2019
Volvo

0

4

21

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc40 2020 photo
Xc40 2020
Volvo

0

1

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2020 Volvo Xc40?

Add car complaint
2020 Volvo Xc40 photo