Volvo XC40 Problems / Reliability Guide

The Volvo XC40 has garnered attention for its stylish design, safety features, and premium feel. However, potential buyers and current owners often inquire about its reliability. This guide delves into the XC40's reliability, highlighting common problems, recall information, and owner experiences.

• Is the Volvo XC40 Reliable?

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Software Update/Recall

• Vehicle Connectivity Module (VCM) Recall

• Left Indicator Issue Recall

• Infotainment System Glitches

• Is the Volvo XC40 Worth it?

Is the Volvo XC40 Reliable?

The Volvo XC40 holds a good reputation for reliability, though some issues have been reported. In the 2024 What Car? Reliability Survey, the plug-in hybrid versions of the XC40 ranked 7th out of 48 cars in the family SUV class, while petrol variants came in 24th. Volvo as a whole placed 13th out of 34.

Very few owners experienced significant mechanical issues, minor electrical faults were more common, especially with the infotainment and driver aid systems.

Volvo XC40 Recalls

Between 2018 and 2024 there were a total of 13 recalls issued for the XC40 in the UK. Most of these only affected a small number of cars, but you should make sure your car, or any prospective purchase, has these recalls fixed.

To check any car for recalls, use the government website here. Recalls should be fixed by a main dealer, at no cost to the owner.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Software Update/Recall

The AEB system engages the brakes if one of its many sensors detect an imminent collision with another car, pedestrian or object.

However, some XC40 models built after January 21, 2019, experienced issues with the AEB system not activating as intended. A simple software update resolves this problem, which is done at the dealer.

Vehicle Connectivity Module (VCM) Recall

The VCM is an automated system that alerts emergency services of your location in the event of an accident. The issue affected over 7,000 cars.

On some XC40s manufactured between January 1 and October 30, 2018, a software issue affecting the VCM could prevent location information from being sent to emergency services.

Left Indicator Issue Recall

A software issue affecting a large number of cars - 18,755 to be exact - can cause the left rear indicator to not work properly. A short-term remedy is to cancel and reapply the indicator, but this can be difficult to do whilst navigating a busy roundabout!

Thankfully t,he fix is pretty simple, a software update that should completely resolve the issue.

Infotainment System Glitches

Some users have experienced freezing or unresponsive infotainment screens. This can be particularly frustrating as many of the car's vital controls are accessed through this screen.

A short-term solution is to restart the system by holding down the power button. However, quite a few owners have stated that this fix becomes less and less effective, needing to restart multiple times to get back functionality.

It seems a dealer-applied software update can help the problem, as is the way with many modern car issues.

Is the Volvo XC40 Worth It?

Despite some reported issues, the Volvo XC40 remains a strong contender in the premium compact SUV segment. Its high safety ratings, comfortable interior, and brand reputation contribute to its appeal.

However, potential buyers should be aware of the reported problems and ensure that any used vehicle has received all necessary updates and recalls.

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Author - Joseph Law

Joseph has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.