Last updated: 2026-04-20

2019 Volvo XC40
RELIABILITY SCORE: 60/100 (GOOD)

2019 Volvo XC40 Reliability Report

The 2019 Volvo XC40 scores 60/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 29 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

4

Complaints

29

Complaint Rate

N/A

Est. Repair Cost

N/A

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,200–$2,650

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint SeverityN/A

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs60/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact60/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue DiversityN/A

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • SERVICE BRAKES (4)
  • AIR BAGS (4)
  • ENGINE (2)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 2)

2019 is year 2 of the First generation (XC40; 2018-present).

  • Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
  • A refresh arrives in 2023.
  • 1st generation XC40 (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 2018 (redesign year) vs 2019+ pricing and recalls.

2018: First generation (XC40; 2018-present) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2019: This Model Year

2019 is year 2 of the First generation (XC40; 2018-present).

2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2019 Volvo XC40?

At 60/100, the 2019 Volvo XC40 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is year 2 of the First generation (XC40; 2018-present).

Owners log 29 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 unknown or other (5). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2020 Volvo XC40, which scored 11 points higher.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +Low complaint frequency
  • +Not a first-year model
  • +Only 29 complaints reported

Cons

  • Moderate recall count
  • UNKNOWN OR OTHER: Two main issues with the 2019 Volvo XC40 related to the vehicle's electronic... (5 complaints)
  • SERVICE BRAKES issues reported (4 complaints)
  • Safety recall: park-it advisory issued

Compare 2019 Volvo XC40 With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 4 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

4

recalls on record

Park It

A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2019 Volvo XC40. 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

29

complaints
LowAvgHigh
Very Low

Safety Incidents

4

Crashes

0

Fires

3

Injuries

0

Deaths

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2019 Volvo XC40 Recall Details

4 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Volvo XC40. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

20V1440002020-03-12

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.

18V8000002018-11-13

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Volvo XC90, S90, V60, V60 Cross Country, V90, XC40, XC60, and V90 Cross Country vehicles. The software installed in the Vehicle Connectivity Module (VCM) may have an error causing the Telematics and Driver Support Systems to function improperly. As a result, the GPS will not provide location information to emergency personnel in the event of an emergency.

Consequence

If the GPS location is not provided to emergency personnel it can inhibit emergency response in the event of a crash or injury.

Remedy

Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will correct the software, free of charge. The recall began December 26, 2018. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R39917.

18V5540002018-08-22Park It

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2019 Volvo XC40 vehicles. The brake pedals may not have been correctly riveted, allowing the pedal to move out of position, possibly reducing braking performance.

Consequence

Reduced braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Volvo has notified owners advising them to stop driving their vehicle. Cars will be inspected on-site or towed to dealers and the brake pedals will be replaced as necessary, free of charge. Volvo began contacting their owners on August 23, 2018. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R59899.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2019 Volvo XC40? Check its history first

Every 2019 Volvo XC40 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2019 Volvo XC40 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Pelvis/Torso/Shoulder (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Volvo XC40Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

2019 Volvo XC40 Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated Cost
Engine Oil Light Diagnosis$198 – $291
Brake Master Cylinder Replacement$1,392 – $1,544
Cabin Air Filter Replacement$113 – $142
Oil Pressure Sensor Replacement$175 – $224
Timing Belt Replacement$829 – $1,132
Radiator Hose Replacement$117 – $145
Control Arm Replacement$761 – $904
Transfer Case Output Shaft Oil Seal Replacement$411 – $596
Wheel Hub Assembly Replacement$650 – $750
MAP Sensor Replacement$197 – $226

Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

26–27 MPG

Fuel cost: $2,200–$2,650/yr

Fuel only

23 city / 31–33 hwy MPG

Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
XC40 FWD 2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)233327$2,200
XC40 AWD 2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)233126$2,650

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Volvo XC40.

  • Inspect brake discs for warping and shuddering during a test drive

  • Test airbag system functionality and check for warning lights

  • Verify forward collision avoidance system operates correctly

  • Check gear shifter knob for secure attachment

  • Test IntelliSafe system for unintended braking or lane drift

  • Ensure fuel door opens reliably with the key fob

2019 Volvo XC40 Common Problems by Component

29 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

5
4
4
6
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5)SERVICE BRAKES (4)AIR BAGS (4)ENGINE (2)POWER TRAIN (2)SEAT BELTS (2)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)Other (6)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

5 complaints

Owners report two main issues with the 2019 Volvo XC40 related to the vehicle's electronic systems. The center console display is described as glitching and blacking out while driving, requiring a vehicle restart to resume operation, and the necessary software update to fix this issue is only available through a dealer at a cost. Additionally, multiple owners describe the Pilot Assist system disengaging unexpectedly without warning, particularly when lane markings are not visible or the camera system is affected by sunlight, with some noting the lack of adequate alerts when this occurs. These issues are mentioned in vehicles with low mileage, sometimes under 3,000 miles, and pose potential safety implications due to sudden loss of navigation and driving assistance features.

5 complaints total

SERVICE BRAKES

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Volvo XC40 report issues with the service brakes, with complaints highlighting unresponsive brake pedals and warped brake discs. One owner describes a brake pedal that becomes hard to push, failing to stop the vehicle and nearly resulting in collisions, attributed to a faulty brake vacuum pump. Another owner reports warped brake discs at approximately 16,000 miles, causing shuddering when braking, which required disc resurfacing to resolve. Safety implications are evident in a crash incident where the backup braking system failed, leading to a collision with a parked vehicle; this issue was later addressed by a recall. These complaints indicate potential brake system reliability concerns, especially for used car buyers considering this model.

4 complaints total1 crash

AIR BAGS

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Volvo XC40 report several issues with the airbag system. Complaints frequently mention problems with airbag deployment, including one incident where airbags deployed during a low-speed crash into a garage, resulting in a significant injury due to the knee airbag. Another owner describes an airbag warning light activation when using an orthopedic back support, which does not occur without the support. A third complaint highlights a failure of the airbag system at approximately 2,400 miles, with the owner expressing fear of driving the vehicle. These reports suggest potential safety implications, particularly concerning airbag deployment and sensor sensitivity, with mileage issues appearing as early as 2,400 miles and as late as 26,000 miles.

4 complaints total1 crash1 injury
ENGINE (2 complaints)

ENGINE

2 complaints

Owners report recurring issues with the check engine emissions light in the 2019 Volvo XC40, requiring multiple service visits. Complaints frequently mention that the light returns despite part replacements and software updates, with one owner noting the issue began in summer 2018 and recurred in summer 2019. Another owner describes a diagnostic code failure related to the evaporative emissions system at under 20,000 miles, suggesting a potential pattern of similar issues discussed in online forums. No safety implications such as crashes or loss of control are reported in these complaints. Potential buyers should be aware of these emissions-related concerns, particularly in vehicles with low mileage.

2 complaints total
POWER TRAIN (2 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Volvo XC40 report issues with the gear shifter knob detaching, which is described as being inadequately secured with glue rather than properly welded. This problem occurs around the 42,000-mile mark and results in the vehicle failing to shift into gear. Additionally, there is a report of the vehicle entering 'Safety Mode' and shutting down after minor front-end damage from a collision with a deer, which temporarily prevented the vehicle from being moved to a safe location. These incidents suggest potential safety implications, particularly in the case involving a crash where the vehicle was immobilized on a rural interstate.

2 complaints total1 crash
SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Volvo XC40 report issues with the seat belt system, with two distinct problems noted. In one case, a crash occurred where the seat belt failed to engage during sudden unintended acceleration, resulting in an injury despite the driver's attempt to brace themselves. Another report describes the front seat belts activating without apparent cause while the vehicle was stationary at a traffic light, leading to a passenger's neck being bruised. These incidents highlight potential safety implications, including the risk of injury during unexpected seat belt engagement or failure to engage in critical situations. No specific mileage or timeline patterns emerge from these complaints.

2 complaints total1 crash1 injury
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Volvo XC40 report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, particularly the automatic emergency braking feature. Complaints frequently mention unintended activation of the braking system, especially when encountering road conditions like accumulated water, which leads to vehicle swerving and loss of control, resulting in minor to significant body damage. Additionally, some owners describe the forward collision avoidance system failing to operate correctly, with symptoms including unexpected acceleration, illuminated warning indicators, and independent steering wheel movement. These issues are reported at low mileages, around 2,000 miles, and may persist despite software updates. Such problems have led to accidents and highlight potential safety implications for prospective buyers.

2 complaints total
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners report issues with the 2019 Volvo XC40's IntelliSafe system, specifically involving the automatic braking feature activating without cause. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle suddenly applying brakes at various speeds, even when no obstacles are present, which has occurred multiple times, sometimes nearly causing rear-end collisions. Additionally, one owner describes the seat belt tightening excessively during a false rear collision alert, leading to physical injury. Another owner reports problems with the Pilot Assist feature, where the vehicle drifts into opposite lanes or changes lanes erroneously. These issues are noted at low mileage, around 1,450 miles, and present potential safety implications such as unintended braking and loss of lane control.

2 complaints total1 injury
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint
2026-02-24

The contact owns a 2019 Volvo XC40. The contact stated while at a stop sign or a stop light, the engine revved loudly, and the vehicle suddenly lunged forward out of control. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 7,600.

STRUCTURE (1 complaints)

STRUCTURE

1 complaint
2025-03-25

Under Engine Cover came loose and fall during highway driving. It tuned out that 5 bolts that suppose to secure that cover were missing (per repair shop) . Fallen cover broke on few pieces and those pieces could impact breaking and vehicle instability causing incident with injuries and fatalities.

When Do 2019 Volvo XC40 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

16,000–30,000 milesBrake disc warping
2,000–26,000 milesAirbag system failures
2,000–2,400 milesForward collision avoidance issues

Best & Worst Volvo XC40 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Volvo XC40 Years to Buy

The best Volvo XC40 year is 2020 with a reliability score of 71/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (64/100) and 2019 (60/100).

Volvo XC40 Years to Avoid

The worst Volvo XC40 year is 2021 with a score of 46/100, primarily due to electrical system (9) issues. Also avoid 2023 (48/100).

Volvo XC40 Reliability Score Trend

Volvo XC40 reliability has declined in recent years, with newer models averaging 53/100 compared to 66/100 for older years.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Volvo XC40 reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201960/100Good
202071/100Good
202146/100Mixed
202348/100Mixed
202464/100Good

Volvo XC40 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202653/100 (predicted)Predicted00
202464/100+16Good314
202348/100+2Mixed435
202146/100-25Mixed340
202071/100+11Good110
2019(selected)60/100Good429

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2019 Volvo XC40 reliable?
The 2019 Volvo XC40 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 60/100. It is reasonably reliable with 4 recalls and 29 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Volvo XC40?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2019 Volvo XC40 include: UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (4 complaints), AIR BAGS (4 complaints), ENGINE (2 complaints), POWER TRAIN (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2019 Volvo XC40 have?
The 2019 Volvo XC40 has 4 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2019 Volvo XC40 expensive to maintain?
The 2019 Volvo XC40 should have average maintenance costs for its class. With a reliability score of 60/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2019 Volvo XC40 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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.

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