Last updated: 2026-04-20
2018 Volvo XC60 Reliability Report
The 2018 Volvo XC60 scores 74/100 ("Good"). With 5 recalls and 35 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
5
Complaints
35
Complaint Rate
10.7per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$746
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,900–$3,000
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
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (11)
- SERVICE BRAKES (4)
- LANE DEPARTURE (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 is the first model year of the Second generation (2017–present).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
- Refreshed in 2021, 2025.
- 2nd generation XC60 (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2018 pricing and recall counts against 2019+ before deciding.
2018: Second generation (2017–present) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2021: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2025: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2018 Volvo XC60?
At 74/100, the 2018 Volvo XC60 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
Owners log 35 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 electrical system (11). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2019 Volvo XC60, which scored 2 points lower.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$113 cheaper to maintain than avg luxury compact SUVs
- +Low major repair risk (7%)
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (11 complaints)
- −SERVICE BRAKES issues reported (4 complaints)
Compare 2018 Volvo XC60 With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 5 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (11)
- SERVICE BRAKES (4)
Recall Overview
5
recalls on record
A moderate 5 recalls are on file for the 2018 Volvo XC60. 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
10.7
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 26
Safety Incidents
3
Crashes
0
Fires
4
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Volvo XC60 Recall Details
5 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Volvo XC60. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
SEATS
Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2018-2019 XC60 and S90 vehicles. The driver and passenger front seat rail rear flange nuts may not have been installed during assembly.
Consequence
If the nuts are missing, in the event of a crash, the front seat structure and position may be affected, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seat rails for missing flange nuts, installing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R19931.
STRUCTURE
Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Volvo XC60 vehicles. Under certain conditions and cold temperatures, the tailgate lifting arms may freeze which may cause the lifting arms to separate from the vehicle.
Consequence
If the tailgate lifting arms separate, the arms could project rearward with significant force, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Volvo has notified owners, and dealers will replace the tailgate lift arms with an improved designed, free of charge. The recall began May 14, 2019. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R89910.
SEATS
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2026 XC60MHEV, 2018 and 2025 XC60 vehicles. The front seat bolts may have been improperly tightened, resulting in loose bolts.
Consequence
A seat with loose bolts may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will tighten the front seat bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 17, 2025. Owners may contact Volvo's customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R10345. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning December 5, 2025.
Buying a used 2018 Volvo XC60? Check its history first
Every 2018 Volvo XC60 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
2018 Volvo XC60 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Volvo XC60Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$746
vs $859 avg for luxury compact SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.5
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
7%
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
23–24 MPG
Running cost: $3,650–$3,750/yr
Fuel + repair
21–22 city / 27–28 hwy MPG
Plug-in Hybrid
26 MPG
Running cost: $3,400/yr
Fuel + repair
26 city / 28 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 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XC60 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 28 | 24 | $2,900 |
| XC60 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 21 | 27 | 23 | $3,000 |
Plug-in Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XC60 AWD PHEV 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 26 | 28 | 26 | $2,650 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Volvo XC60.
Test auto stop/start feature for unexpected engine shut-off
Inspect rear brake pads and rotors for premature wear
Check for water leaks around sunroof and windshield
Test Park Assist Pilot for unexpected acceleration
Verify lane departure and blind spot monitoring systems function properly
Inspect tires for noise-reducing foam detachment and vibration
Check for dashboard warning lights and messages
2018 Volvo XC60 Common Problems by Component
35 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
11 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Volvo XC60 frequently report issues related to the vehicle's electrical system, particularly engine shut-offs and malfunctions with the auto stop/start feature. Complaints commonly describe the engine shutting off unexpectedly, often while stopped or at low speeds, and failing to restart, which in some cases has led to crashes and injuries. Water leakage into the vehicle, affecting electrical components such as airbags and the main wiring harness, is another reported problem. These issues often emerge early, with some reports occurring as soon as 1,200 miles, and can result in a loss of steering and braking assistance, posing significant safety risks. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential electrical system failures and their implications for vehicle safety and reliability.
SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaintsOwners report that the 2018 Volvo XC60 frequently experiences premature wear of rear brake pads and rotors, with some noting replacement needs as early as 20,000 to 25,000 miles. Several complaints describe brake pad thickness falling below 3mm and mention costly replacements. Additionally, one owner reports severe rotor warping at under 27,000 miles, although their brake pads were still in good condition. No safety incidents such as crashes or loss of control are noted in the complaints. Used car buyers should be aware of potential recurring brake maintenance at relatively low mileage intervals.
LANE DEPARTURE
3 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Volvo XC60 frequently report issues with the lane departure and assist systems. Complaints describe the blind spot monitor turning off unexpectedly and the lane keep system disengaging without sufficient warning, which is indicated only by a small icon change on the instrument cluster. This behavior has been observed consistently since the vehicle's purchase in early 2018. Additionally, owners express concerns about the system's inability to maintain lane position, which could lead to veering off the road if the driver does not promptly take control. These issues suggest potential safety implications, particularly if the driver is unable to respond immediately to the system's disengagement.
STRUCTURE (3 complaints)
STRUCTURE
3 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Volvo XC60 report issues primarily related to door components. Multiple complaints describe interior door handles fracturing, with one instance occurring at approximately 21,300 miles. Another owner reports a right rear door lock failing to release, affecting safety as rear passengers could not exit until a temporary repair was made. Parts availability is a noted issue, delaying repairs for some structural recalls and replacements. These structural issues, particularly with door functionality, are significant for potential buyers to consider due to their impact on vehicle usability and passenger safety.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Volvo XC60 report issues related to the steering system, particularly involving the Park Assist Pilot feature and power steering warnings. One owner describes a crash incident where the Park Assist Pilot accelerated and turned unexpectedly fast during a parking maneuver, leading to a collision with a garage column. Another owner mentions frequent dashboard warnings indicating "POWER STEERING ASSISTANCE TEMPORARILY REDUCED" and intermittent issues with the auto parking and engine stop/start functions, causing discomfort for the driver. These complaints highlight potential safety implications, including loss of control during parking and distracting warnings while driving. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these reported issues, particularly with automated parking features and power steering alerts.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Volvo XC60 report issues related to the sensitivity of the key fob, which can inadvertently activate the lift gate, leading to potential injury. One owner describes an incident where the lift gate closed automatically while loading groceries, resulting in an injury. Additionally, complaints frequently mention intermittent issues with dashboard warnings, such as "POWER STEERING ASSISTANCE TEMPORARILY REDUCED" and auto parking alerts, as well as inconsistent performance of the engine's start/stop feature, particularly after initial use during a drive. These complaints do not specify mileage ranges, but they highlight potential safety implications, such as distraction while driving and unexpected vehicle behavior.
TIRES (2 complaints)
TIRES
2 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Volvo XC60 frequently report issues with the Continental CrossContact tires, specifically involving the detachment of noise-reducing foam inside the tires. Typical symptoms include severe vibration and noise while driving, particularly noticeable at highway speeds, with one owner experiencing these issues at around 39,000 miles. The detachment of the foam leads to an imbalance in the tires, causing significant vehicle vibration and potential difficulty in maintaining control. While no accidents are reported, the severity of the vibration prompts safety concerns, as one owner had to reduce speed and drive with hazards on. Buyers should be aware of these issues, especially when evaluating vehicles with similar mileage and tire specifications.
SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
1 complaintTHE SEATBELT WARNING ONLY SOUNDS FOR A FEW SECONDS THEN GOES SILENT AND NEVER SOUNDS AGAIN. THIS OCCURS AT ENGINE START, AND ALSO IF I UNBUCKLE THE BELT WHILE MOVING. THIS HAPPENS TO THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER BELTS. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I PURCHASED IT, THEY HAD IT OVERNIGHT AND THE NEXT DAY TOLD ME THAT THIS IS THE WAY IS WAS DESIGNED. I CALLED VOLVO USA CUSTOMER SUPPORT AND WAS TOLD TO TAKE IT TO A DEALER, AND THEN BEGAN TELLING ME THAT HIS VOLVO ( UNKNOWN MODEL OR YEAR) DID NOT DO THIS. THE CAR HAS 1,300 MILES.
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintHave brought car twice for vibration and shutter when vehicle is driven on highway. The shutter is extreme and only stops when car comes to a dead stop at an intersection or toll. Increasing speed or lowering speed does not stop the extreme shutter felt in wheel and passenger compartment. Car has only 37,000 miles on odometer! This extreme vibration and shutter is intermittent and not all the time.This problem has been previously reported to NHTSA as propeller shaft front head on AWD system. Portland Volvo has done alignment on 10/10/22, but could not find reason for shutter/shimmy. Brought car back to dealer on 10/27/22 and they found nothing. Bringing car back to dealer on 11/16/22 for same problem.
SUSPENSION (1 complaints)
SUSPENSION
1 complaintThere is a know issue with suspension that Volvo is not addressing. XC 60 owners are reporting the car was shuttering and vibrating heavily under acceleration or coasting at different speed (at 30K miles). This is getting more severe with increased mileage. Volvo has redesign the CV joint, but has not advised owners. The issues: 1- The right drive axle had a play 2- Front Prob drive shaft CV Joint is defective: The dealer showed me the new redesigned version where it is marked with a green line. If you don't see the green line on your prob shaft, this means you might have the old design one and will probably be defective. Volvo has redesigned but not replacing the defective part. The vibrations becomes more severe with increased speed and adversely effects steering, maneuverability and control on the vehicle.
When Do 2018 Volvo XC60 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Volvo XC60 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Volvo XC60 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Volvo XC60 year is 2025 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2021 (75/100) and 2020 (75/100).
Volvo XC60 Years to Avoid
No Volvo XC60 years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Volvo XC60 maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Volvo XC60 Reliability Score Trend
Volvo XC60 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 74/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 76/100 | Good |
Volvo XC60 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Volvo XC60 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Volvo XC60?
How many recalls does the 2018 Volvo XC60 have?
Is the 2018 Volvo XC60 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2018 Volvo XC60 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 XC60.
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