Last updated: 2026-10-10
2023 Volvo XC40 Reliability Report
The 2023 Volvo XC40 has a mixed reliability record, well below other 2023 SUVs, with rearview camera dropouts and four federal recalls.
Recalls
4
Complaints
35
Complaint Rate
116666.7per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
N/A
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,550–$2,650
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
Weaker than most XC40 years, with four recalls, early rearview camera failures, and unintended acceleration crashes, while the 2024 shows fewer complaints and recalls.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (7)
- SERVICE BRAKES (4)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 received a 2023 facelift update for the First generation (XC40; 2018-present).
- Changes: Aesthetic updates to bring design in line with C40 Recharge; New headlights; Updates to bumpers; Android Automotive integration for mild hybrid models; New ADAS sensor platform.
- Year 6 in this generation (2018–2024).
- 1st generation XC40 (US).
What this means for buyers
Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.
2018: First generation (XC40; 2018-present) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2023: This Model Year (Refresh)
2023 received a 2023 facelift update for the First generation (XC40; 2018-present).
Should You Buy the 2023 Volvo XC40?
Think twice before buying this one. Reliability is mixed, and the 2023 XC40 sits well below other 2023 SUVs. It is also among the weaker of the six scored XC40 years. The 2024 rates better, with 14 owner complaints and 3 recalls against 35 complaints and 4 recalls here. Crash-test protection is not the issue, since the federal rating is 5 of 5 stars.
The rearview camera is the most common complaint. In reverse, the screen reads "Camera temporarily not available," goes black, or flickers. Owners report this at 1,000 to 5,000 miles, and dealer software updates have not stopped it for several of them. More serious reports involve unintended acceleration that braking could not stop, with two crashes and three injuries. Other owners describe brakes that fail to stop the car or a pedal that stiffens, and one describes a full electrical shutdown while driving. Federal recall records list four recalls: two for back over prevention, one electrical, and one for hydraulic service brakes.
Ask for proof that all four recalls were completed. Request service records for any camera or software repairs, and test the camera in reverse on the drive. Compare a 2024 before you decide.
Compared to the 2024 Volvo XC40, which scored 16 points higher. See also the 2021 Volvo XC40 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
- +Well-established generation
- +Only 35 complaints reported
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Moderate recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Backup camera dropouts lead this category (8 complaints)
Compare 2023 Volvo XC40 With
2023 BMW X1
Reliability: 64/100
2023 Audi Q3
Reliability: 74/100
2023 Lexus NX
Reliability: 77/100
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC
Reliability: 67/100
2023 Cadillac XT4
Reliability: 75/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (7)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2023 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
116666.7
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 11.3
Safety Incidents
4
Crashes
0
Fires
5
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 Volvo XC40 Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Volvo XC40. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2024 C40BEV, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40, and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview camera image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 24, 2026. Owners may contact Volvo Car’s customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10333. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning February 16, 2026. This recall replaces previous NHTSA recall number 25V282. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 25V282 will need to have the new remedy performed.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, C40, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40 and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview camera image that does not display reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2025. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10320.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 S60, V60CC, XC60, XC90, XC40, and C40 vehicles. A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) may be falsely detected for the emergency call system (e-call) and display "e-Call Service Required" in the driver information module (DIM).
Consequence
The false warning message could prevent the detection of an actual e-call system failure, which could delay an emergency response during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will update the telematics and connectivity antenna module (TCAM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10225.
4 recalls and a score of 48 — check any 2023 Volvo XC40 before buying
With a below-average reliability score, a VIN check is especially important. Uncover hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that data alone can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2023 Volvo XC40 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.4%
Safety Technologies
Volvo XC40Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based 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.
2023 Volvo XC40 Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated 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
Hybrid
26–27 MPG
Fuel cost: $2,550–$2,650/yr
Fuel only
23–24 city / 30–32 hwy MPG
Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2023 EPA label cycle.
Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XC40 B4 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 24 | 32 | 27 | $2,550 |
| XC40 B5 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 23 | 30 | 26 | $2,650 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Volvo XC40.
Shift into reverse repeatedly and confirm the rear camera appears every time with no unavailable message.
Ask for service records showing rear camera software updates and any repeat visits for the same camera fault.
Drive in traffic and watch for automatic emergency braking when nothing is ahead.
Check the center screen for grayed-out buttons or messages saying climate control or airbags are unavailable.
Creep into a parking space with your foot firmly on the brake and confirm the car never lurches forward.
Close the trunk lid against a soft object and confirm it reverses immediately instead of pressing down.
Open every rear door from both the inside and outside handles.
On electric versions, inspect the supplied charger where the handle meets the cable for separation or exposed wires.
2023 Volvo XC40 Common Problems by Component
35 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
8 complaintsSafety-relatedBackup camera dropouts lead this category. In reverse, the screen shows "camera temporarily unavailable" or flickers to black, and dealers reportedly call it common but cannot fix it. Other reports describe a center screen that needs regular resets and shows climate and airbags as unavailable, a full electrical shutdown while driving that disabled even the hazard lights, and a "Do Not Drive - Stop Immediately" warning that a new battery did not cure. False emergency braking and an SOS button placing unwanted calls also appear. One crash followed sudden acceleration while braking to park. One report says the supplied charger handle separates from its cable and exposes the wires.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
7 complaintsReversing triggers the failure: the rearview camera shows "Camera temporarily not available," goes black, or flickers, so the view behind is partly or fully blocked. Failures show up early, with reported mileages between 1,000 and 5,000. Dealer software updates and owner resets have not stopped it for several owners. Some say the problem started or came back right after an update. One report adds that automatic braking engaged both forward and in reverse with nothing nearby, and the infotainment system froze and needed manual resets.
SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaintsSafety-relatedBrakes fail to stop the vehicle, or the pedal stiffens under the driver's foot. In one report the ESC, ABS, and brake warning lights came on together. Another describes the vehicle lurching and accelerating at parking speed while the driver held the brake firmly. One owner says the brake system was replaced twice and still froze or lost pressure intermittently. That vehicle later had transmission trouble, slipping into what felt like neutral at 30 to 40 mph. Reports include collisions with barriers and one injury.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 complaintsUnexpected movement is the main theme here. Reports describe the vehicle taking off in reverse in one-pedal mode just after a software update downloaded, and lunging forward over a pothole while coming to a stop. Another complaint says the rear camera still shows "Camera Temporarily Unavailable" after a software update. One owner also had two tires go flat with no warning, and the navigation system then sent roadside assistance the wrong location.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsThe wheel pulls or locks without driver input. One report describes a click in the wheel at highway speeds above 60 mph that nudges the vehicle right and takes a sharp correction to release. Another describes the vehicle veering left with driver assist active, then steering and brakes not responding during the correction, so it left the road. No warning lights came on in that case. Both carry a real loss-of-control risk at speed.
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)
STRUCTURE
2 complaintsA closing trunk lid can come down on a person and keep pressing instead of reversing when it meets resistance. One owner was injured this way while loading groceries and says the dealer first blamed the owner. A separate report describes a rear passenger door that would not open from either the inside or outside handle, which could trap someone in the back seat.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsSafety-relatedUnintended acceleration that braking cannot stop is the pattern. Both reports in this category ended in crashes, with three people injured in total. In one, the vehicle was on cruise control and kept gaining speed after the driver braked, leaving the road until the airbags deployed. In the other, it was sitting at a light with Auto Hold on when it surged forward into a stopped truck. Neither driver could regain control of the speed before impact.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
2 complaintsBlank or unresponsive camera screens appear when shifting into reverse, leaving the driver no view behind. Software updates have not fixed it, and one owner says the latest update made it worse. Another vehicle keeps failing on the current version, 3.7, right after a dealer visit. None of the complaints here involve the wipers or glass. Every report concerns the backup camera.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2023 Volvo XC40 equipped with Pirelli Tires, Tire Line: Scorpion Zero, Tire Size: 235/45/R20, DOT Number: 1XB1H884J5022. The contact stated that the message "Low Air Pressure" was displayed. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the rear passenger’s side tire was flat. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who replaced the tire. Later, while driving approximately 35 MPH, the front driver’s side tire had a blowout. The cause for the failures was not yet determined. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 3,588.
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2023 Volvo XC40. The contact stated that while her son was driving at various highway speeds, the brakes inadvertently activated, causing the vehicle to abruptly stop even though were no other vehicles or objects nearby. Additionally, the vehicle occasionally stalled and hesitated while accelerating. The contact also stated that the display screen occasionally became inoperable, and messages and safety warnings were not available to the driver. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure. The dealer had replaced unknown sensors, but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 13,000.
Best & Worst Volvo XC40 Years
Best Volvo XC40 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreVolvo XC40 Years to Avoid
2021
2023
(Current Model)
Volvo XC40 Reliability Score Trend
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 60/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 46/100 | Mixed |
| 2023 | 48/100 | Mixed |
| 2024 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2026 | 76/100 | Good |
Volvo XC40 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 Volvo XC40 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Volvo XC40?
Does the 2023 Volvo XC40 have backup camera problems?
Does the 2023 Volvo XC40 have unintended acceleration or brake problems?
Is the 2024 Volvo XC40 more reliable than the 2023?
Don’t buy a 2023 Volvo XC40 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
How we score the 2023 Volvo XC40
Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2023 Volvo XC40 does best on recall impact (71/100) and worst on complaint severity (22/100). Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Volvo XC40.
No spam. Only data updates for this model.
Browse More Volvo Models
Browse More 2023 Vehicles
2023 Lexus RX
Score: 85/100
2023 Toyota Crown
Score: 84/100
2023 Nissan Altima
Score: 84/100
2023 Lexus IS
Score: 83/100
2023 Toyota 4Runner
Score: 82/100
2023 Acura RDX
Score: 82/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue