Last updated: 2026-04-20

2020 Volvo XC90
RELIABILITY SCORE: 71/100 (GOOD)

2020 Volvo XC90 Reliability Report

The 2020 Volvo XC90 scores 71/100 ("Good"). With 7 recalls and 24 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

7

Complaints

24

Complaint Rate

7per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$851

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,750–$3,300

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity71/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact63/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity82/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

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

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (4)
  • STRUCTURE (2)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Refresh Year

2020 received a 2019 facelift update for the Second generation (2015).

  • Changes: Revised front and rear fascias; New front grille design; Added Sensus infotainment system compatibility with Android Auto; Kinetic energy recovery braking system introduced.
  • Year 5 in this generation (2016–present).
  • 2nd generation XC90 (US).

What this means for buyers

Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.

2016: Second generation (2015) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2020: This Model Year (Refresh)

2020 received a 2019 facelift update for the Second generation (2015).

2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2025: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2020 Volvo XC90?

At 71/100, the 2020 Volvo XC90 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2020 received a 2019 facelift update for the Second generation (2015).

Owners log 24 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 (5). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2021 Volvo XC90, which scored 1 points higher. See also the 2019 Volvo XC90 for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +Low major repair risk (11%)
  • +Below-average complaint rate for SUV

Cons

  • Above-average recall count
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Instrument panel and airbag system (5 complaints)
  • SERVICE BRAKES: Owners of the 2020 Volvo XC90 report several issues with the vehicle's braking... (4 complaints)

Compare 2020 Volvo XC90 With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 7 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

7

recalls on record

The 2020 Volvo XC90 has 7 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

7

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 21.2

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

2

Crashes

1

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 XC90 Recall Details

7 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Volvo XC90. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V1790002025-03-24

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2020-2021 S90, 2020-2022 S60, V60, XC60, XC90, and 2022 V90 plug-in hybrid vehicles. The high-voltage battery may experience a short circuit within the battery module when the battery is fully charged and the vehicle is parked.

Consequence

A short circuit in a high-voltage battery increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Owners are advised not to charge their vehicles until the remedy has been completed. Dealers will inspect and replace the high-voltage battery module as necessary. In addition, dealers will update the software to monitor the battery. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 28, 2025. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10312.

23V8270002023-12-07

SEAT BELTS

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2015-2024 XC90 vehicles. The second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly.

Consequence

An improperly tightened seat belt buckle may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing their risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and tighten the second-row seat belt buckle anchorage bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10259.

23V0010002023-01-05

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.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2020 Volvo XC90? Check its history first

Every 2020 Volvo XC90 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

2020 Volvo XC90 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 19.1%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Head Restraint (Driver)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Not Available)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)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 XC90Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5

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

Est. Annual Maintenance

$851

vs $807 avg for luxury midsize SUVs

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.6

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

11%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

XC90
$851
Category Avg
$807
All Vehicles
$652

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

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

21–25 MPG

Running cost: $3,600–$4,150/yr

Fuel + repair

18–21 city / 26–30 hwy MPG

Plug-in Hybrid

27 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 2020 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
XC90 FWD 2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)213025$2,750
XC90 AWD 2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)202723$3,000
XC90 AWD 2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)182621$3,300
Plug-in Hybrid trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
XC90 AWD PHEV 2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)262827$2,550

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Volvo XC90.

  • Inspect brakes for soft pedal or complete loss of braking

  • Test instrument panel for flickering or failure

  • Check sunroof for leaks and inspect for water damage

  • Verify rear passenger door latches function properly

  • Test hybrid system operation and check for fault messages

  • Ensure rear axle system operates without sudden power loss

  • Inspect for any signs of fuel line issues or leaks

2020 Volvo XC90 Common Problems by Component

24 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

5
4
3
5
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)SERVICE BRAKES (4)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)STRUCTURE (2)LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (2)WHEELS (1)POWER TRAIN (1)ENGINE (1)Other (5)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

5 complaints

Owners report several electrical system issues with the 2020 Volvo XC90, primarily involving the instrument panel and airbag system. Complaints frequently mention that the LED instrument panel intermittently flickers or completely fails, leaving drivers without speed, fuel, or warning indicators, which poses significant safety risks. Multiple owners describe these failures occurring without warning, sometimes while driving on highways, and dealerships acknowledge the need for panel replacements, though parts are often backordered. Additionally, one report highlights a fault in the airbag system linked to a driver seat belt ground fault, which could prevent airbags from functioning correctly. These issues often occur over an extended period, with some incidents noted as early as 2023, suggesting potential long-term reliability concerns for prospective buyers.

5 complaints total

SERVICE BRAKES

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2020 Volvo XC90 report several issues with the vehicle's braking system. A significant pattern involves a complete loss of braking, reported in two separate incidents at approximately 60,000 and 70,000 miles, with failures attributed to different hydraulic components such as the brake booster, master cylinder, and hydraulic control unit. Another complaint highlights a persistent brake sensor light due to exposure to coffee spills, affecting the adaptive cruise control system. Additionally, one owner mentions needing new rear brakes and rotors after only 26,296 miles, which is considered early. Safety implications are notable, with one report of a crash where the auto brake failed to engage, leading to a minor collision and unexpected airbag deployment. These issues suggest potential safety risks and maintenance concerns for prospective buyers.

4 complaints total1 crash

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2020 Volvo XC90 report several issues related to vehicle reliability. Complaints frequently mention water leakage from the sunroof after approximately four years, leading to potential electrical damage and mold concerns. Another reported issue involves the electrical rear axle drive (ERAD) system failing around 39,000 miles, resulting in sudden power loss and engine shutdown while driving at highway speeds. A significant safety concern is highlighted by a report of an engine fire occurring at about 11,000 miles, attributed to a suspected fuel line issue. These problems suggest potential safety implications, including power loss and fire risk, which prospective buyers should consider.

3 complaints total1 fire
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)

STRUCTURE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Volvo XC90 report issues with door locks and the spoiler cover. A common problem involves the door handles, where both interior and exterior handles cease to function if a passenger attempts to open the door while the locks are being actuated. This issue can temporarily be resolved by manipulating the electronic child locks and door locks, but this workaround is complex and could pose a safety risk in emergencies, such as fires or submersion. Additionally, there is a report of the spoiler cover over the third brake light detaching unexpectedly while driving on the freeway. These complaints do not specify mileage, but they highlight potential safety concerns related to vehicle structure.

2 complaints total
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (2 complaints)

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Volvo XC90 report issues with the rear passenger side doors, including difficulty opening from both the inside and outside, and problems with the door failing to close properly. Complaints frequently mention that the door lock kits were replaced, but the issues persisted, with one owner noting the failure at approximately 71,000 miles. Another owner describes the left rear door failing to latch, sometimes swinging open while driving, despite efforts to ensure the handle was flush with the door. This issue presents a significant safety risk, particularly as it occurs near a child's car seat. Buyers considering a used 2020 Volvo XC90 should be aware of these door latch problems, especially in colder conditions, and the potential for unresolved issues even after service attempts.

2 complaints total
WHEELS (1 complaints)

WHEELS

1 complaint
2026-03-13

My tire somehow got a nail in it. I drove straight to Volvo when noticing the issue around 730am on 3/13/26. At 745am I spoke with [XXX] at Schumacher Volvo, he advised that they were too busy today to assist me. I advised I was afraid to drive with this and needed help and he told me to buy a tire lock kit and I could do it at another tire store. When I went to the parts department they advised the brake lock would not work and the only way to fix my tire would be to have Volvo remove the special lock nuts or replace them with common ones. Of course x they had no time to do this so they left me with zero options or ability to fix my car. I was forced to drive 30 minutes home with zero solution. Completely unsafe and unfair I have absolutely no way to resolve this issue with my car. Unacceptable and scary considering Volvo claims they are all about safety but no concerns letting a single mother and her 2 children drive in a tire with a nail. XXX, INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint
2026-03-25

The contact owns a 2020 Volvo XC90. The contact stated that while driving 35-40 MPH, the message "Vehicle Not in Park" was displayed intermittently, and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle was restarted after several attempts and was driven to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that no failure was found. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. While investigating the failure online, the contact became aware that it was a common failure, and that the dealers were unable to duplicate the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint
2025-12-10

In early December (2025), I experienced Hybrid System Failure, with the vehicle showing this fault in the dashboard and the check engine light coming on. I took it to the dealership, as the hybrid system is still within warranty, and they diagnosed a failed hybrid battery module. They said I could continue to drive the care in combustion-only mode and would order the module. Having heard nothing, I checked in early January and was told the module would not be available until May or June of 2026. I escalated to Volvo corporate. They opened a case and keep promising to have a manager reach out to update me, but they have failed to follow-through for almost a month. I am now faced with the prospect of operating an impaired vehicle that can't pass an emissions test (and which is under warranty) for more than half a year.

BACK OVER PREVENTION (1 complaints)

BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint
2025-11-28

The camera system when backing up becomes unavailable intermittently. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t. System has been updated and restarted but it fails to fix the issue. When it happens it states camera unavailable and service required. Shutting off the vehicle and restarting multiple times sometimes corrects it. Automotive dealer said there is no issue with it. We have pictures of when it happens and the vehicle is available for inspection.

EQUIPMENT (1 complaints)

EQUIPMENT

1 complaint
2025-01-30

The contact owns a 2020 Volvo XC90. The contact stated that after plugging in the charger to the vehicle, the cable charger started blinking red. The contact had to jumpstart the vehicle to open the doors. The blinking red light on the cable charger had not stopped blinking. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18E086000 (EQUIPMENT); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

When Do 2020 Volvo XC90 Problems Start?

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

60,000–70,000 milesService brake failures
39,000–79,000 milesElectrical system failures

Best & Worst Volvo XC90 Years

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

Best Volvo XC90 Years to Buy

The best Volvo XC90 year is 2025 with a reliability score of 74/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2026 (73/100) and 2024 (73/100).

Volvo XC90 Years to Avoid

No Volvo XC90 years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Volvo XC90 maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

Volvo XC90 Reliability Score Trend

Volvo XC90 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 72/100.

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

Volvo XC90 reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201871/100Good
201971/100Good
202071/100Good
202172/100Good
202272/100Good
202370/100Good
202473/100Good
202574/100Good
202673/100Good

Volvo XC90 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202673/100-1Good22
202574/100+1Good323
202473/100+3Good326
202370/100-2Good639
202272/1000Good427
202172/100+1Good517
2020(selected)71/1000Good724
201971/1000Good631
201871/100Good340

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2020 Volvo XC90 reliable?
The 2020 Volvo XC90 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 71/100. It is reasonably reliable with 7 recalls and 24 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Volvo XC90?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 Volvo XC90 include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (4 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), STRUCTURE (2 complaints), LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2020 Volvo XC90 have?
The 2020 Volvo XC90 has 7 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2020 Volvo XC90 expensive to maintain?
The 2020 Volvo XC90 has estimated annual repair costs of $851/year, which is $44 more than the luxury midsize SUVs average of $807. With a reliability score of 71/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2020 Volvo XC90 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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