Volvo XC90 Complaints

1,540 consumer complaints on file.

#11774410October 29, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, STRUCTURE:BODY, SEATS
The rear passenger-side door latch on my 2021 Volvo XC90 failed, and the door will not open from inside or outside. This prevents an occupant from exiting through that door, including in an emergency or after a crash. The failure occurred on XXX at approximately 45,000 miles while the vehicle was in normal use. I have small children and they are now not able to get out of the car so this is a major safety issue. There was no crash or injury. Borton Volvo ([XXX]) diagnosed a failed door latch assembly and quoted $1,106 to replace it. Volvo declined goodwill coverage. Owner reports indicate door latch failures are common on 2016+ XC90 models INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11774445October 29, 2026
TIRES
As I was driving, I heard a loud pop and my right rear tire started deflating. I had not run over anything obvious in the road and the tire’s appearance led me to believe that the treads had separated. I called the Volvo dealership to get their opinion on the photo and the tire rep never returned my call. Because of the unusual tire blow, I felt it was safest to get all 4 tires replaced and the Costco tire rep thought that the blowout was unusual, too. I drove all four tires to Principle Volvo for their tire rep to inspect and their conclusion was “outside influences” caused the blow, the conclusion to which I disagree. The mileage on the tires was about 25,300 and the treads were still in good shape so I think the tires should have held up much better.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11773457October 25, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving my 2018 Volvo XC90 at approximately 50 miles per hour, the right rear door suddenly swung open even though it appeared fully closed. My [XXX] old child was seated in the back seat next to the door when this occurred. There was no warning, no impact, and no indication the door was improperly closed. My left rear door does the same thing. Yes, Volvo is aware. I called the dealership in Tacoma, WA they told me there is no recall the upgraded latch kit is $238.00 PER door not including labor. This is a manufacturing defect that has affected thousands of people. I can't use my back doors... MY CHILD ALMOST DIED Make Volvo fix this and pay for it. It's a XXX lot cheaper than their buyers suing them due to deaths. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11773420October 24, 2026
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I own a 2022 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 plug-in hybrid. An authorized Volvo dealer diagnosed an internal fault in high-voltage battery Cell Module E. According to the technician's written report, diagnostic code BECM-P0BBE62 was present. The technician ran the Cell Module component test through Volvo's VIDA diagnostic system, which returned a “fault found” status for Cell Module E. The technician recommended replacing the faulty module. The replacement part is on back order, and I have been advised that obtaining battery modules into the United States is a known supply bottleneck that could delay repairs for several months. Volvo has confirmed that the repair is covered under warranty, but the vehicle remains unrepaired while I wait for the part. Of particular concern, the technician documented that the vehicle would not start when they attempted to move it into a parking space. The technician noted that this failure may or may not occur again. This creates uncertainty about the vehicle's ability to start and operate reliably. The vehicle previously displayed a “Propulsion System Service Required” warning. Although the vehicle had reportedly behaved normally during earlier driving, the subsequent diagnostic findings and failure to start raise concerns about the reliability and safe operation of the high-voltage propulsion system. I am concerned about: The high-voltage battery cell module failure and the possibility of a recurrence or additional battery faults. The vehicle's documented failure to start. The potentially prolonged period during which the vehicle cannot be repaired because the replacement module is unavailable. Whether similar failures and parts delays are affecting other Volvo plug-in hybrid vehicles. I request that NHTSA review this report alongside similar complaints to determine whether there is a broader safety-related defect or pattern involving high-voltage battery cell modules in affected Volvo plug-in hybrid vehicles, and whether further
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11773207October 23, 2026
ENGINE
On 9/18/2026 at about 3:15 PM, the low coolant warning came on while I was driving in front of my child's school. Less than a minute later I pulled into the school pickup line, stopped, and turned the vehicle off. There was no smoke when I turned it off. After the engine was off, smoke began coming from the engine compartment, and within minutes the engine compartment was on fire. The fire occurred in a school pickup line surrounded by parents and children. An independent witness saw that the vehicle was off before any smoke appeared. The fire department and police responded. The engine compartment was destroyed and the vehicle is a total loss. Warning before failure: low coolant message, less than a minute before the vehicle was stopped. This vehicle has the B4204T27 (T6) engine. Volvo recalled 2016 XC90s with this engine (Recall 19V-308) because a cracked engine-side coolant bleeder hose could leak coolant onto the catalytic converter heat shield and cause a fire while the vehicle was stationary, with a low coolant warning as the sign. This 2017 was not included in that recall, but it gave the same warning and caught fire the same way while stationary. The vehicle was inspected by Volvo Car USA in October 2026. I have not received the inspection report. The failed component is UNKNOWN because the engine compartment was incinerated. I was exposed to smoke during the fire and am seeking medical evaluation.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11773120October 22, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
While driving 45-50 miles per hour on a large main street in orange county with a car 6-7 car lengths ahead and the Volvo XC90 automatically forced the vehicle to stop on a dime for no apparent reason. Everyone in the car was thrown forward into the locking seatbelts. Thankfully no one was injured.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11772220October 19, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, VISIBILITY/WIPER, BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
My 2022 Volvo XC90 (VIN: [XXX]) has a recurring failure of the center touchscreen display, which controls the climate system. Almost daily, the display shuts off while I’m driving and does not reboot. When it fails, I cannot use the heat, the windshield defroster, or the defogger. As cold weather sets in, this is a serious visibility and safety hazard. On XXX, at approximately 35,400 miles, I took the vehicle to the authorized Volvo dealership in [XXX] (repair order #XXX). I paid approximately $366 for a software reset. The repair did not fix the problem. Since then, the system crashes right after startup. It also intermittently plays loud white noise through the speakers, at random times and without warning while I’m driving. The sudden loud noise startles and distracts the driver. The dealer’s technician said he would submit a report to Volvo engineering. I have also opened a case with Volvo Car USA Customer Care. As of XXX, the vehicle has not been repaired, and the failures continue regularly. I have heard nothing back from Customer Care or the dealership despite repeated attempts to contact them respectively. Summary of hazards: Loss of windshield defrost and defog, which reduces visibility. Loss of cabin heat in winter conditions. Sudden loud audio noise that distracts the driver. A control screen that cannot be relied on while driving. I am asking NHTSA to review this as a potential safety defect affecting the center display and climate control on this model. Thank you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11771735October 16, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The check engine light on our Volvo XC90 Plug-in Hybrid came on stating "Hybrid System Failure Service Required". The vehicle would no longer accept a charge. A service appointment was made and the technician found that there was a fault with cell module A. A case was started but we were told the part was on backorder.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11771252October 14, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My 2020 Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid is covered by Recall 25V-179 (Volvo R10312) for high-voltage battery cell modules that may short circuit and catch fire when fully charged and parked. On June 3, 2025, Volvo Cars Arrowhead performed the recall inspection and software update (Invoice 239958) and recorded “battery cell check ok no faults.” The vehicle was returned to us as remedied. On December 17, 2025, the same dealer serviced the vehicle (Invoice 244765) without flagging any open recall issue. On May 4, 2026, the high-voltage battery cell module failed and the system indicated "hybrid system failure." It was towed to the dealer, which diagnosed a failed cell module. Before it was towed, we drove and charged the vehicle at our home for about a week, with our children in the house. That is the exact scenario the recall warns about. The vehicle has been at the dealer for more than five months waiting for a replacement module, with no expected delivery date. On October 14, 2026, the dealer told us in writing that Volvo Cars USA had approved a software update as the “permanent fix,” that the failed cell module will remain in the vehicle, and that the vehicle can be used as designed. They are returning it to us on October 16, 2026. The remedy Volvo filed with NHTSA for this recall says dealers will inspect and replace the high-voltage battery module as necessary, AND update the software to monitor the battery. Our module has been confirmed as failed, yet Volvo is leaving it in place and relying on software alone. The earlier inspection-and-software remedy on this same vehicle did not prevent the failure. I am asking NHTSA to review: Whether leaving a confirmed-failed cell module in place, with only a software update, is an authorized remedy under 25V-179. Whether the June 2025 inspection method reliably identifies defective modules. Whether other owners are being given the same software-only “remedy” because of a parts shortage.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11770384October 11, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The chrome trim on the center console, immediately to the right of the gear selector, deteriorates and peels away, leaving razor-sharp edges capable of cutting skin. This appears to be a widespread issue, with numerous owner reports and photographs online dating back to the 2016 Volvo XC90. The same defect is present on my 2021 model, suggesting Volvo has continued using a component prone to this failure for multiple model years. The location is particularly concerning because drivers frequently place their hands near this trim when operating the gear selector and using the center console. Owners have reported cuts and bleeding from the sharp edges, creating a potential risk of sudden driver distraction. This is a recurring safety concern involving a factory-installed component, not simply a cosmetic defect, and warrants investigation by NHTSA.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11770326October 10, 2026
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, STEERING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
WHAT COMPONENT OR SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONED, AND IS IT AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION? The Pilot Assist / Adaptive Cruise Control system becomes physically stuck, causing sudden unintended acceleration. Additionally, the central vehicle electrical system/wiring harness is experiencing a verified spontaneous failure. The vehicle is currently located in Hendersonville, North Carolina, and is fully available for federal inspection upon request. HOW WAS YOUR SAFETY OR THE SAFETY OF OTHERS PUT AT RISK? My life and the safety of everyone on the road was placed in immediate, catastrophic danger. On multiple occasions, the vehicle took total control away from me, overrode my inputs, and independently accelerated to 100 miles per hour on the highway. This maximum-throttle acceleration severely compromised my ability to slow down, brake, or control the vehicle. As a professional therapist and professor, surviving these multiple near-death events has caused me severe psychological trauma and a profound fear of driving. HAS THE PROBLEM BEEN REPRODUCED OR CONFIRMED BY A DEALER? Yes, a dealer has officially replicated and confirmed part of the underlying electrical failure. The vehicle was held at the dealership service department for an extended diagnostic stay from October 6th until yesterday. While they did not replicate the 100 mph acceleration during their brief initial rounds, a Volvo service mechanic took the vehicle home overnight and successfully reproduced and witnessed the unprompted electrical failure (the cabin lights turning on completely by themselves). HAS THE VEHICLE BEEN INSPECTED BY THE MANUFACTURER, POLICE, OR INSURANCE? The authorized Volvo dealership service department has extensively inspected the vehicle. However, despite a mechanic witnessing the spontaneous electrical glitch, the service center said they could not pinpoint the exact source of the failure using standard diagnostic tools and returned the car to me.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11770220October 9, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My 2020 Volvo XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid is subject to Volvo safety recall R10312 (NHTSA 25V-179) for a potential internal short circuit in the LG high-voltage battery module that can cause a thermal event and fire. On June 11, 2026, AutoNation Volvo Cars San Jose inspected my vehicle (82,680 miles) and determined that the high-voltage battery module must be replaced. As of October 2026, approximately four months later, the replacement battery has still not arrived due to a parts backlog, and the dealer cannot provide a completion date. Volvo's recall remedy cannot be completed because replacement battery modules are unavailable. I am driving a vehicle with a known fire-risk battery defect with no timeline for the remedy. I request that NHTSA investigate the adequacy and timeliness of Volvo's recall remedy, including parts availability and interim measures (such as loaner vehicles) for affected owners.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11769444October 6, 2026
STEERING
Volvo electric power steering system failure.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11769047October 5, 2026
SEAT BELTS
This is 2021 volvo xc90 purchased new in 2021. A few weeks ago, my wife asked me to look at the middle row seatbelt as it wouldnt buckle. I could see that it was broken. I checked the seatbelt next to it and same thing. Plastic buckle broken in same place. I took it to the dealer where we get serviced and they told me it would cost $900. I told them this should not be my expense as this is a manufacture defect. Car was bought new 5 years ago. I brought the car home and then checked all seatbelts. 4 out 6 (have a third row) all have the same issue! I created a case with Volvo corporate. I was offered a 20% discount on parts only. I told them this was unacceptable and they then closed the case as they said i declined their assistance. Dealer told me it would cost about $1500 to repair all 4.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11768341October 1, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES
On Wednesday 9/23, I was driving on a residential road and came to a stop sign. When I tried to stop at the intersection my brake pedal seized up and the car would not stop. The check engine light came on. I had to shift the car into park in order to stop the vehicle. I towed it to the dealer and found out today that the brake booster failed.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11767568September 28, 2026
SEAT BELTS
The contact owns a 2023 Volvo XC90. The contact stated that while his son was attempting to latch the seat belt, the seat belt failed to retract. The failure had occurred several times. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V827000 (SEAT BELTS); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 28,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11767107September 26, 2026
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN
Coming from a cold start in hybrid or pure mode the ERAD disengages causing the vehicle to slow down, hesitate and buck until the gas engine can engage to recover acceleration.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11766832September 25, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My 2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge (plug-in hybrid) has been at Volvo Cars Dublin, Dublin CA since June 15, 2026 for a failed high-voltage battery cell module requiring replacement. The replacement part is on national backorder with no estimated availability. The vehicle has been out of service for over 100 days and remains undrivable. A failed high-voltage battery cell module in a plug-in hybrid is a safety concern, and the indefinite nationwide backorder suggests this defect and parts shortage may affect other owners. Volvo corporate (case 07207782) has provided no repair date.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11766833September 25, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My 2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge (plug-in hybrid) has been at Volvo Cars Dublin, Dublin CA since June 15, 2026 for a failed high-voltage battery cell module requiring replacement. The replacement part is on national backorder with no estimated availability. The vehicle has been out of service for over 100 days and remains undrivable. A failed high-voltage battery cell module in a plug-in hybrid is a safety concern, and the indefinite nationwide backorder suggests this defect and parts shortage may affect other owners. Volvo corporate (case 07207782) has provided no repair date.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11766534September 23, 2026
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Vehicle has exhibited lagging and stalling while driving in "Pure" (electric-only) mode since approximately April 2026, at approximately 85,000 miles, accompanied by an illuminated check engine light. This has occurred repeatedly at red lights, intersections, stop signs, and in stop-and-go traffic, creating a risk of sudden loss of propulsion in live traffic situations, including at intersections where an unexpected stall could result in a collision. The dealership (Volvo Cars of Fort Washington) has diagnosed this as originating from multiple hybrid drivetrain components over several repair visits: the High Voltage Coolant Heater (replaced per a referenced Volvo Technical Service Bulletin), the Inverter Electric Rear Axle Drive Module (IEM) — diagnostic data showed one internal transistor (phase W) reaching 135°C, a severe outlier compared to the other two phases reading approximately 25°C — the A/C refrigerant shutoff valve, and most recently the Electronic Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) transmission, where diagnostic monitoring showed the ERAD clutch slipping during test drives. Volvo's own internal case management system has classified this case as a "Repeat Repair." Despite multiple repair attempts, the underlying drivability defect (lagging/stalling) has recurred each time, including almost immediately after the vehicle was returned following the initial repair, with minimal intervening use. This pattern indicates a persistent, unresolved defect in the vehicle's hybrid drive system that presents a safety risk due to unpredictable loss of power while driving.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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