Last updated: 2026-04-20

2022 Volvo XC90 Reliability Report
The 2022 Volvo XC90 scores 72/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 27 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
4
Complaints
27
Complaint Rate
7.9per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$851
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,750–$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 (12)
- ENGINE (2)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2022 is 2 years after the 2019 facelift refresh.
- Year 7 in the Second generation (2015) (2016–present).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 2nd generation XC90 (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2016: Second generation (2015) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2022: This Model Year
2022 is 2 years after the 2019 facelift refresh.
2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2025: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2022 Volvo XC90?
At 72/100, the 2022 Volvo XC90 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2022 is 2 years after the 2019 facelift refresh.
Owners log 27 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 (12). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2023 Volvo XC90, which scored 2 points lower. See also the 2021 Volvo XC90 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Low major repair risk (11%)
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (12 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (3 complaints)
Compare 2022 Volvo XC90 With

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Reliability: 68/100

2022 BMW X5
Reliability: 67/100

2022 Audi Q7
Reliability: 67/100

2022 Acura MDX
Reliability: 73/100

2022 Lexus RX
Reliability: 90/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2022 Volvo XC90. 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
7.9
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 14.3
Safety Incidents
0
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.
2022 Volvo XC90 Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2022 Volvo XC90. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
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.
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.
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.
Buying a used 2022 Volvo XC90? Check its history first
Every 2022 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.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2022 Volvo XC90 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 19.1%
Safety Technologies
Volvo XC90Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based 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
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
22–25 MPG
Running cost: $3,600–$4,000/yr
Fuel + repair
19–21 city / 27–30 hwy MPG
Plug-in Hybrid
26–27 MPG
Running cost: $3,400–$3,500/yr
Fuel + repair
25–26 city / 27–28 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 2022 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XC90 T5 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 21 | 30 | 25 | $2,750 |
| XC90 T5 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 20 | 28 | 23 | $3,000 |
| XC90 T6 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XC90 T8 AWD Recharge 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 26 | 28 | 27 | $2,550 |
| XC90 T8 AWD Recharge ext. Range 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 25 | 27 | 26 | $2,650 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2022 Volvo XC90.
Check for propulsion system warnings or turtle mode activation during a test drive
Inspect sunroof drains for leaks and water damage in the cabin
Test infotainment system for freezing or unresponsiveness
Verify recall completion for electrical system issues
Ensure engine performance is consistent and free of error messages
2022 Volvo XC90 Common Problems by Component
27 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
12 complaintsOwners report several issues with the electrical system of the 2022 Volvo XC90, with recurring themes of infotainment and propulsion system malfunctions. Multiple complaints describe the infotainment system freezing or shutting off unexpectedly, sometimes affecting the entire digital dashboard and climate controls. These issues often occur when interacting with the system via steering wheel buttons, with some incidents leading to the vehicle shutting off and restarting itself. Additionally, propulsion system warnings and unexpected "turtle mode" activation are noted, leading to sudden power loss and vehicle shutdowns at highway speeds. These problems are reported at various mileage points, with some occurring shortly after purchase. Safety implications include potential loss of vehicle control and being stranded in hazardous conditions, such as on highways or in extreme weather.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Volvo XC90 report issues with the sunroof drains causing water leaks, which can damage electronics and potentially affect vehicle computers. One owner mentions this problem recurring six months after the initial repair, despite a costly fix. Complaints also highlight concerns with the Blind Spot Information System, where the absence of an audible warning and difficulties seeing LED indicators in certain lighting conditions may lead to unsafe driving situations. Additionally, some owners note that the vehicle does not emit sound while stationary or in motion at low speeds in electric modes, which could pose a safety risk to nearby pedestrians. These issues are typically reported within the first year of ownership, and buyers might consider these factors when evaluating the vehicle's safety and maintenance needs.
ENGINE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Volvo XC90 report experiencing engine issues, particularly while driving on highways. Complaints frequently mention receiving an "engine propulsion system" error message followed by a reduction in engine performance, limiting acceleration to a maximum of 45 mph. Additionally, some owners describe the vehicle entering "turtle mode," leading to engine failure and leaving them stranded. These issues occur multiple times for some owners, with one reporting repeated incidents leading to service center visits without resolution. Safety implications are notable, as these failures occur at high speeds, potentially increasing the risk of being stranded in unsafe conditions.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Volvo XC90 report issues with the fuel and propulsion systems, notably involving a lack of warning for significant fuel leaks and propulsion errors leading to vehicle shutdowns. One owner describes a severe fuel leak from a gas tank breach caused by road debris, noting the absence of any dashboard alert despite the high-tech system. Another owner details a propulsion error while driving uphill, resulting in the vehicle shutting off in a hazardous location, with no ability to move the car to safety. These incidents occur at low mileages, under 9,000 miles, and raise safety concerns due to potential fire hazards and the risk of collision from sudden vehicle immobilization.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintOn August 17th 2022 I received the reduced performance and acceleration reduced sign with an icon of a turtle. Besides getting this light on my dash my evening ended in fear and distress as I received a call from my family that the new car purchased was acting up and all that they were afraid for their life. This occurred to my spouse in the middle of driving home on the freeway (as she had our two kids in the backseat). She had to drive in a very low and dangerous speed on the highway and take the first exit possible as the car started acting up. A strong smell of something burning started to permeate the car coming from under the hood of the engine. My family was beyond terrified of this. The threat and fear for their life was due to the safety failures of this vehicle. The amount of stress and anxiety this suv caused my spouse and underage children is beyond horrific. I was forced to drive across town (in severe distress and panic, as I did not know how this will all end and if my family was ok) and exchange cars with my frightened and petrified family. As I drove the car, I was frightened for my life as I understood the possibility of the car catching on fire (as the burned smell permitted the car). I was not able to drive more than 15mph. This is the third instance of the serious safety and hybrid system malfunction of car itself within the last 90 days post purchase. First time dropped the vehicle at Sacramento Volvo on May 4, 2022 due to check engine came on / acceleration reduced. Second time dropped the vehicle at Sacramento Volvo on Aug 9, 2022, check engine light came on, hybrid propulsion fault is on, vehicle struggles to accelerate. This dangerous safety issues that I have experienced within the short time owning this SUV can have severe consequences on the lives of my family. I opened a case with Volvo USA, so here is the case 220818-000954.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaintDuring cold weather, and when backing up, the vehicle makes a loud knocking noise as if an accident has occurred. This is an intermittent problem. The vehicle is equipped with Auto-hold brakes. The dealership stated that this might be the issue where the auto-hold is engaging without warring. The dealership tested the brakes and stated that it was operating per manufacturing specs. This issue happened several times so far since 2022. It is a scary moment when feeling as if I had hit some one or some thing.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintI received an SRS airbag, service urgent, drive to workshop warning. I took the car in six times the first two times they said it was a software update and they failed to update the software the third time they updated the software. It didn’t work the fourth time they said it was the passenger seat and the scale wasn’t working or connecting so it was throwing off the airbag. They fixed that, it didn’t change that warning. I still got the warning. And the last time they said it was a battery issue the battery wires weren’t connecting. They fix that, but after five minutes of driving out of the dealership and a repair shop, the warning came up again.I’ve sent an email to Corporate asking for either a refund or or a new car in accordance with the lemon law of California. They want me to take it in the seventh time which I refuse to do because the car is on safe safe to drive and I have two kids that I cannot keep driving in this car.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaintSafety-relatedThe contact owned a 2022 Volvo XC90. The contact stated that while driving in stop-and-go traffic, the odor of smoke was suddenly present inside the vehicle and moments later smoke was viewed coming from under the hood. The vehicle was stopped and moments after exiting the vehicle the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The fire department was called to the scene and extinguished the flames. During the incident, the vehicle and property inside the vehicle were destroyed. A fire report was taken at the scene and the vehicle was towed to the local towing yard. The cause of the fire was not yet determined. The manufacturer was not yet notified of the failure. The local dealer was contacted. The failure mileage was 11,000
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintI was going 60 mph when the check engine light came on , the car started to jerk and reduce speed. I pulled onto the shoulder until the car stopped. I than proceeded to drive slowly and the turtle appeared on the dash. I drove about another mile until I reached my home doing 30 miles per hour or less.
SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
1 complaintWe took our Volvo to the dealer today to address another problem with the Volvo care system. We were told it was the back up battery. The car was left at Volvo for no more than 90 minutes. Prior to leaving it with Volvo, we had a convertible car seat installed in the second row, passenger side seat. We have a 26-month-old who rides in it every day. Later today, we picked up our son and ran several errands and returned home tonight around 9 PM. That’s when we discovered that the car seat had been completely disconnected from the vehicle. Apparently this is done to access some component of the car for the repair that was performed. Volvo technicians apparently uninstalled the car seat, performed the repair, and then returned the car seat, uninstalled, right back in the exact spot they had taken it from. The main connection is down behind the seat, at the base, so it was not obvious that the car seat had been uninstalled. Apparently Volvo is not providing instructions to their technicians to ask permission to uninstall a car seat, or to refrain from replacing the car seat without informing drivers that it is not installed. Hopefully Volvo improves this process before a child is hurt or killed because they are not secured to the vehicle.
When Do 2022 Volvo XC90 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Volvo XC90 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Volvo XC90 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe 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.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2026 | 73/100 | Good |
Volvo XC90 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2022 Volvo XC90 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2022 Volvo XC90?
How many recalls does the 2022 Volvo XC90 have?
Is the 2022 Volvo XC90 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2022 Volvo XC90 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 XC90.
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