Top fixes

Top Volvo XC60 fixes every owner should know

Cheap, practical fixes for the Volvo XC60 faults you actually meet, with rough costs and what a garage will charge.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 118,527 recorded MOT tests, 16.8% failed.

Volvo XC60
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

TL;DR

Volvo XC60 owners should be aware of common faults such as electrical issues, suspension wear, DPF problems, brake wear, and climate control issues. Addressing these faults early can save money and improve vehicle performance. Many repairs can be done DIY, while some may require professional assistance.

Electrical System Issues

Many Volvo XC60s, particularly those from 2010 to 2014, experience electrical faults. Symptoms include dashboard warning lights and malfunctioning features. The fix often involves checking fuses and wiring connections. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further complications.

DIY or Garage: This can be a DIY fix if you are comfortable with basic electrical work.

Suspension Wear

Suspension components, especially bushes and shock absorbers, can wear out over time, particularly in models from 2015 to 2018. Signs include a bumpy ride and uneven tyre wear. Replacing these parts is essential for safety and comfort. Timely replacement can enhance driving experience.

DIY or Garage: This is a more complex job, better suited for a garage.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Problems

The DPF can become clogged, especially in diesel models from 2011 to 2017. This can lead to reduced performance and increased emissions. A common fix is a forced regeneration or replacement of the filter. Regular maintenance can help avoid severe issues.

DIY or Garage: If you have access to a diagnostic tool, you may attempt a forced regeneration yourself.

Brake Issues

Brake wear is common in all XC60 models. Typical symptoms include squeaking sounds and reduced braking efficiency. Regular checks and replacing worn pads and discs is crucial. Maintaining brakes ensures safety and optimal vehicle performance.

DIY or Garage: This is a manageable DIY task if you have the right tools.

Climate Control Problems

Issues with the climate control system can arise in models from 2012 to 2019. Symptoms include insufficient heating or cooling. Often, this is due to a low refrigerant level or a faulty compressor. Addressing these problems can improve comfort during drives.

DIY or Garage: Checking refrigerant levels can be a DIY task, but compressor replacement is best left to professionals.

Volvo XC60 recall record

53 recalls have been issued for the Volvo XC60, between 2009 and 2025.

  1. BCM2 SW – Safety Notice

    R/2025/211

    Issued 23 June 2025

    Affected vehicles may experience a temporary loss of braking functionality after coasting downhill with ‘B’ mode selected or when using One Pedal Drive. This could potentially lead to a collision.

    Remedy:Install modified software via an Over the Air (OTA) update.

    Affects cars built Jul 2019 to Jun 2025

  2. SPA1 Cell Modules

    R/2025/117

    Issued 24 March 2025

    On affected vehicles the High Voltage (HV) Battery may have a manufacturing defect which could cause the battery cells to overheat when the HV Battery is fully charged. In a worst-case scenario there is a risk of fire when the vehicle is parked up with a fully charged HV Battery.

    Remedy:Check and replace the HV Battery if necessary and install modified software.

    Affects cars built Sept 2019 to Nov 2021

  3. BCM2 – Push Road

    R/2024/446

    Issued 5 November 2024

    The rod connecting the brake pedal to the brake booster may not have been assembled correctly. The final torque might not be according to manufacturing specification due to deviations in the equipment. If the rod does disconnect the mechanical connection between brake pedal and brake booster cannot be guaranteed. In the worst-case scenario if the rod disconnects the brake pedal function cannot be guaranteed

    Remedy:A Volvo retailer will check and if necessary tighten the rod to correct specification.

    Affects cars built May 2019 to Feb 2020

  4. Seat and Seat Belt Torque

    R/2024/124

    Issued 11 March 2024

    The screw joints for the seats and seat-belts may not have been torqued to the correct specification which means in the event of an impact insufficient protection will be available.

    Remedy:The solution is to check and adjust the torque.

    Affects cars built Aug 2022 to Jul 2023

49 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Volvo XC60 MOT record

From 118,527 recorded MOT tests, 16.8% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20235114.3%26,322 mi
20227,0337.5%28,896 mi
20219,7088.4%38,076 mi
20207,7938.8%43,816 mi
201911,17210.4%51,876 mi
201810,70110.8%62,011 mi
201714,63816.8%72,127 mi
201614,61319.8%82,253 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements31.8%
  2. A tyre seriously damaged18.6%
  3. a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm18.4%
  4. A spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened17.5%
  5. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn13.6%

Figures cover every Volvo XC60 tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Volvo XC60 official figures

Median across 45 variants on sale, diesel electric, electricity / petrol, petrol electric.

Combined economy
35.7 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
179 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate
Electric range
48 miles
Manufacturer WLTP figure

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are common faults in the Volvo XC60?

Common faults include issues with the electrical system, suspension wear, and DPF problems.

Can I fix these issues myself?

Many of these fixes can be done as DIY, but some may require professional help.

Is it worth fixing these faults?

Yes, addressing these faults can prolong the vehicle's life and improve reliability.

Sources