Last updated: 2026-04-20
2020 Volvo S60 Reliability Report
The 2020 Volvo S60 scores 72/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 9 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
3
Complaints
9
Complaint Rate
5.7per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$750
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,550–$2,750
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- SERVICE BRAKES (3)
- STEERING (2)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2020 is year 2 of the Third generation (2018).
- Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
- 3rd generation S60 (US).
What this means for buyers
Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.
If you're comparing prices, check 2019 (redesign year) vs 2020+ pricing and recalls.
2019: Third generation (2018) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2020: This Model Year
2020 is year 2 of the Third generation (2018).
Should You Buy the 2020 Volvo S60?
At 72/100, the 2020 Volvo S60 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2020 is year 2 of the Third generation (2018).
Owners log 9 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to service brakes (3). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2022 Volvo S60, which scored 2 points lower. See also the 2019 Volvo S60 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Low major repair risk (8%)
- +Below-average complaint rate for Sedan
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −SERVICE BRAKES: Several issues with the service brakes of the 2020 Volvo S60 (3 complaints)
- −STEERING issues reported (2 complaints)
Compare 2020 Volvo S60 With
2020 Audi A4
Reliability: 65/100
2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Reliability: 43/100
2020 BMW 3-Series
Reliability: 64/100
2020 Acura TLX
Reliability: 71/100
2020 Lexus IS
Reliability: 83/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 3 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- SERVICE BRAKES (3)
- STEERING (2)
Recall Overview
3
recalls on record
A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2020 Volvo S60. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
5.7
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 17.3
Safety Incidents
1
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Volvo S60 Recall Details
3 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Volvo S60. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
AIR BAGS
Volvo Car USA, LLC. (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2019-2024 S60 vehicles. The passenger air bag may not be secured properly, which can cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
Consequence
An air bag that does not deploy properly in a crash increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and tighten the bolts securing the passenger air bag, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 5, 2024. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10254.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2019-2020 V90, XC60, S60, V60, V60CC, S90, V90CC, S90L, and XC90 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump can blow a fuse and fail.
Consequence
Failure of the low-pressure fuel pump can cause a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 2, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10100.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
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.
Buying a used 2020 Volvo S60? Check its history first
Every 2020 Volvo S60 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2020 Volvo S60 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.9%
Safety Technologies
Volvo S60Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$750
vs $739 avg for luxury midsize cars
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.5
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
8%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
25–27 MPG
Running cost: $3,300–$3,500/yr
Fuel + repair
21–23 city / 32–34 hwy MPG
Plug-in Hybrid
30 MPG
Running cost: $3,050/yr
Fuel + repair
28 city / 33 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2020 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S60 FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 23 | 34 | 27 | $2,550 |
| S60 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 21 | 32 | 25 | $2,750 |
Plug-in Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S60 AWD PHEV 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 28 | 33 | 30 | $2,300 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Volvo S60.
Inspect rear brake pads and rotors for excessive wear
Check for persistent steering wheel vibrations at highway speeds
Test collision avoidance system for false activations
Verify all electrical controls on the steering wheel function properly
Check for any unresolved recalls related to brakes or electrical systems
2020 Volvo S60 Common Problems by Component
9 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaintsOwners report several issues with the service brakes of the 2020 Volvo S60. One frequent complaint involves the vehicle's crash detection system, which automatically engages the brakes unexpectedly, even at highway speeds, creating a dangerous situation. Another issue described is rapid rear brake wear, with one owner noting a significant reduction in brake pad thickness over 7,000 miles, despite primarily highway driving. Additionally, some owners experience recurring low brake fluid warnings at very low mileage, with one instance occurring at less than 87 miles and again at under 191 miles. These issues suggest potential safety implications, such as unexpected braking and possible brake system malfunctions, which prospective buyers should consider.
STEERING
2 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Volvo S60 frequently report persistent steering wheel vibrations occurring at highway speeds, specifically between 65-75 MPH. These vibrations are described as ongoing despite multiple interventions, including replacing front and rear rotors, tire rotations, alignments, balancing, and even replacing tires. The issue appears to persist from the time of purchase, with one owner noting the problem since acquiring the vehicle in April 2021. Another owner references a technical journal that acknowledges "speed dependent vibrations," which suggests a broader recognition of the issue. Although no crashes or loss of control are reported, the unresolved vibrations may be a concern for potential buyers considering this model.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Volvo S60 report issues primarily related to the electrical system, with specific problems involving the failure of the turn indicator system and steering wheel controls, including windshield wipers. One owner describes being advised not to drive the vehicle and having it towed for service, where the dealer identified a potential software or electrical fault requiring replacement of the stalks and buttons. Another owner reports multiple sensor failures and a lack of satisfactory resolution from the manufacturer, alongside other issues like malfunctioning brakes, though these are not directly linked to the electrical system. These problems are reported to occur within the first year of ownership, and while no crashes or fires are mentioned, the described brake malfunction could imply a potential safety risk. Buyers considering a used 2020 S60 should be aware of these reported electrical issues and the potential for associated repair needs.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintSafety-relatedThe contact owns a 2020 Volvo S60. The contact stated that while at a stop light, the vehicle erroneously drove forward and crashed into a second vehicle. The contact indicate that during the crash the collision avoidance feature did not activate. No injuries were reported. A police report was taken at the scene and the vehicle was towed away. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the incident. The failure mileage was 16,000.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaint2020 VOLVO S60. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DISSATISFACTION WITH TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM. *LD *JS
When Do 2020 Volvo S60 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Volvo S60 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Volvo S60 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Volvo S60 year is 2025 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (72/100) and 2020 (72/100).
2025
2024
2020
(Current Model)
Volvo S60 Years to Avoid
No Volvo S60 years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Volvo S60 maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Volvo S60 Reliability Score Trend
Volvo S60 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 72/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 76/100 | Good |
Volvo S60 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 Volvo S60 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Volvo S60?
How many recalls does the 2020 Volvo S60 have?
Is the 2020 Volvo S60 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2020 Volvo S60 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Volvo S60.
No spam. Only data updates for this model.
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