Last updated: 2026-04-20
2019 Volvo XC60 Reliability Report
The 2019 Volvo XC60 scores 72/100 ("Good"). With 8 recalls and 33 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
8
Complaints
33
Complaint Rate
10.8per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$746
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,900–$3,150
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 (8)
- STEERING (5)
- STRUCTURE (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is year 2 of the Second generation (2017–present).
- Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
- A refresh arrives in 2021.
- 2nd generation XC60 (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: Second generation (2017–present) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2019: This Model Year
2019 is year 2 of the Second generation (2017–present).
2021: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2025: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2019 Volvo XC60?
At 72/100, the 2019 Volvo XC60 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is year 2 of the Second generation (2017–present).
Owners log 33 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 (8). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2020 Volvo XC60, which scored 3 points higher. See also the 2018 Volvo XC60 for an earlier comparison.
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
- −Above-average recall count
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (8 complaints)
- −STEERING: Vibrations and steering wheel controls (5 complaints)
Compare 2019 Volvo XC60 With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 8 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)
- STEERING (5)
Recall Overview
8
recalls on record
The 2019 Volvo XC60 has 8 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
10.8
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 22
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 XC60 Recall Details
8 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Volvo XC60. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
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.
STEERING
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2019-2022 V60CC, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. During steering gear assembly, double screws may have been assembled on top of each other, which can cause a screw to fall into the gearbox housing.
Consequence
A screw inside the gearbox housing can cause the steering wheel to lock up and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the steering gear, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 1, 2023. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10213.
VISIBILITY, VISIBILITY/WIPER
Volvo Car of N.A., LLC (Volvo Cars) is recalling certain 2018-2020 XC60 vehicles. The nuts that secure the front wipers may not have been sufficiently tightened, possibly causing the wipers to not function properly.
Consequence
The risk of the front wiper arms nut fixation to loosen and not holding the arm in correct position, the wiper function could be reduced and vision could be impaired, thus increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Volvo Car will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the nuts holding the front windshield wiper arms in position, free of charge. The recall began September 29, 2020. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10044.
Buying a used 2019 Volvo XC60? Check its history first
Every 2019 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
2019 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
22–24 MPG
Running cost: $3,650–$3,900/yr
Fuel + repair
19–22 city / 27–29 hwy MPG
Plug-in Hybrid
26 MPG
Running cost: $3,400/yr
Fuel + repair
25 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 2019 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XC60 FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 29 | 24 | $2,900 |
| XC60 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 20 | 27 | 23 | $3,000 |
| XC60 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 19 | 27 | 22 | $3,150 |
Plug-in Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XC60 AWD PHEV 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 25 | 28 | 26 | $2,650 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Volvo XC60.
Inspect for water leaks from sunroof affecting electronics
Test infotainment system for display and control failures
Check for steering vibrations at highway speeds
Verify brake performance for pulsations and shuddering
Ensure all seat belts latch and retract properly
Examine tires for integrity and signs of blowouts
Test power steering for smooth operation
Check for unintended acceleration issues
2019 Volvo XC60 Common Problems by Component
33 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
8 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Volvo XC60 report several issues related to the electrical system, with frequent mentions of the driver display and center console going blank, affecting critical functions such as turn signals, hazard lights, and the speedometer. Instances of water leaks from the sunroof leading to electrical malfunctions are also common, with owners describing the vehicle becoming inoperable, unable to shift gears, or turn off. These issues often occur at various mileages, with some reports noting problems before reaching 45,000 miles. One complaint involves a crash and injury due to a malfunction of the auto-hold brake feature. Potential buyers should be aware of these electrical system issues, as they may impact vehicle safety and operability.
STEERING
5 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Volvo XC60 frequently report issues with steering-related components, particularly involving vibrations and steering wheel controls. A common problem described is a heavy vibration at highway speeds, often referred to as the "Ghost Shaker," which occurs around 45 MPH and can make the vehicle difficult to control until it is stopped. This issue is noted at mileages as low as 55,000 miles. Additionally, multiple owners mention failures of the right-side steering wheel module buttons, which intermittently stop functioning, affecting the ability to clear or navigate display messages. Another significant concern is the sudden failure of the electric power steering rack at approximately 65,000 miles, rendering the vehicle unsafe to drive and requiring an expensive replacement. These issues pose potential safety risks, including loss of vehicle control, particularly at higher speeds.
STRUCTURE
3 complaintsOwners report several structural issues with the 2019 Volvo XC60. Commonly mentioned problems include the driver’s seat back tilting forward unexpectedly and becoming immovable, which poses a potential safety risk if it occurs while driving. Additionally, some owners describe rear passenger doors that fail to open from either the inside or outside, raising concerns about emergency egress. Another issue noted is the liftgate arms separating in freezing weather. These complaints do not specify mileage but highlight significant safety implications, particularly in scenarios requiring quick exits from the vehicle.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Volvo XC60 report issues with vehicle speed control, specifically involving unintended acceleration and speedometer failure. One complaint describes a gas pedal cover detaching, which temporarily caused the vehicle to accelerate uncontrollably from 65 to 80 mph, despite attempts to brake. Another complaint notes a malfunctioning speedometer that failed to display speed, posing a potential safety risk due to the driver's inability to gauge their speed. These incidents occur at unspecified mileages and timelines, with no additional reports of crashes or injuries. Buyers should be aware of these issues as they may affect vehicle handling and safety.
TIRES (2 complaints)
TIRES
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Volvo XC60 report issues with tire integrity, specifically with Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires. Complaints frequently mention blowouts, as one owner experienced a sudden blowout of the passenger side rear tire while the vehicle was parked. Another owner describes severe shaking at speeds above 40 miles per hour due to the polyurethane foam inside the tire becoming unstuck. These reports do not specify exact mileage but highlight potential safety implications, such as loss of vehicle stability and the risk of tire blowouts. Buyers should be aware of these tire-related issues when considering this model.
SUSPENSION (2 complaints)
SUSPENSION
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Volvo XC60 report suspension-related issues primarily involving violent shaking and vibrations occurring at speeds of 50 mph and above. Additionally, there are complaints about water intrusion through the sunroof, leading to electrical failures that impact the suspension system among other components. This water intrusion problem is noted to potentially disable critical systems such as airbags and engine electronics, posing a risk of loss of vehicle control. These issues are described as both dangerous and costly to repair, with some owners suggesting a design flaw. No specific mileage or timeline patterns are mentioned in the complaints.
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Volvo XC60 frequently report issues with the service brakes, particularly involving vibrations and pulsations. Multiple owners describe the brake pedal shaking excessively and experiencing vehicle shuddering when braking at highway speeds, typically between 55 and 70 mph. Complaints suggest that these issues may be linked to premature brake and rotor wear, with some owners needing replacements multiple times since purchasing their vehicles. These problems have been reported over a period of 18 months or more, with concerns about the potential impact on braking safety. Additionally, there are reports of significant costs associated with addressing these brake issues, despite claims that such expenses should be covered by the manufacturer.
SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2019 Volvo XC60's front passenger seat belt system, specifically with the seat belt retractor and buckle. Complaints frequently mention that the front passenger seat belt retractor fails to function properly, requiring replacement, while others describe the seat belt buckle as failing to latch when the latch plate is inserted. These issues occur regardless of the vehicle's mileage, as one report does not specify mileage. The safety implications are significant since a non-functional seat belt can compromise passenger safety in the event of an accident. Buyers considering a used 2019 Volvo XC60 should ensure the seat belts, particularly the front passenger ones, are inspected and fully operational.
POWER TRAIN (2 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Volvo XC60 report issues related to unintended acceleration and power braking failure. Multiple incidents of unintended acceleration occur primarily on uphill inclines, with symptoms including the vehicle accelerating without input and continuing to move forward even after braking. One such incident resulted in a crash involving damage to the vehicle. Additionally, a reported failure of the brake vacuum pump, linked to a sheared exhaust camshaft, causes a dangerous loss of braking assistance at around 45,000 miles. These issues pose significant safety risks, including loss of vehicle control and potential for accidents.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-relatedVEHICLE WAS IN THE HOLD POSITION, AS I WAS COMPLETING A TRANSACTION AT MY PNC BANK DRIVE UP. UPON LEAVING MY FOOT TORCHED THE ACCELERATOR LIGHTLY.SUDDENLY THE CAR STARTED TO ACCELERATE AT A VERY HIGH SPEED. I BRAKED BUT COULD NOT STOP. YOU COULD HEAR THE ENGINE REVVING. I CHOOSE TO HIT A LARGE TREE RATHER THAN ENTER A MAIN ROAD.THE CAR WAST TOTALED.
When Do 2019 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 2019 Volvo XC60 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Volvo XC60?
How many recalls does the 2019 Volvo XC60 have?
Is the 2019 Volvo XC60 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 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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