Last updated: 2026-04-20

2025 Volvo XC90
RELIABILITY SCORE: 74/100 (GOOD)

2025 Volvo XC90 Reliability Report

The 2025 Volvo XC90 scores 74/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 23 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

3

Complaints

23

Complaint Rate

5.6per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$851

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,550–$3,000

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity74/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact75/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity81/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

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

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
  • BACK OVER PREVENTION (4)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (3)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Refresh Year

2025 received a 2024 facelift update for the Second generation (2015).

  • Changes: Redesigned front fascia; New headlights and grille design; Updated touchscreen infotainment system.
  • Year 10 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: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2025: This Model Year (Refresh)

2025 received a 2024 facelift update for the Second generation (2015).

Should You Buy the 2025 Volvo XC90?

At 74/100, the 2025 Volvo XC90 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2025 received a 2024 facelift update for the Second generation (2015).

Its complaint rate of 5.6 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the SUV segment average of 4.1. The most common reports involve electrical system (5).

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 2026 Volvo XC90, which scored 1 points lower. See also the 2024 Volvo XC90 for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +Low major repair risk (11%)
  • +5-star NHTSA crash rating

Cons

  • Moderate recall count
  • Above-average complaint rate for SUV
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Several electrical system issues with the 2025 Volvo XC90 (5 complaints)

Compare 2025 Volvo XC90 With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 3 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
  • BACK OVER PREVENTION (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

3

recalls on record

A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2025 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

5.6

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 4.1

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

4

Crashes

0

Fires

0

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2025 Volvo XC90 Recall Details

3 recalls have been issued for the 2025 Volvo XC90. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V9080002025-12-23

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.

25V2820002025-05-08

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.

25V3920002025-06-24

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, SERVICE BRAKES

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 Volvo C40 BEV, 2025 EC40, 2023-2024 XC40 BEV, 2020-2026 XC90 PHEV, 2022-2026 XC60 PHEV, 2023-2025 S60 PHEV, 2024-2025 V60 PHEV, and 2025-2026 EX40 and 2025 S90 PHEV vehicles. In certain driving scenarios while coasting down a hill and using "B" mode or "One Pedal Drive," the vehicle may lose brake function.

Consequence

A loss of brake function increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Owners are advised not to use "B" Mode (for plug-in hybrid vehicles) or "One Pedal Drive" (for pure electric vehicles) until the repair has been completed. The brake module software will be updated over-the-air (OTA) or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2025. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10329.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2025 Volvo XC90? Check its history first

Every 2025 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

2025 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: 17.9%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)Unattended Child Reminder Direct Sensing System (No)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, Roof)

PHEV Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 15.9%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)Unattended Child Reminder Direct Sensing System (No)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, Roof)
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

Plug-in Hybrid

23–27 MPG

Running cost: $3,400–$3,850/yr

Fuel + repair

20–26 city / 26–30 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 2025 EPA label cycle.

Plug-in Hybrid trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
XC90 T8 AWD 2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)262727$2,550

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2025 Volvo XC90.

  • Inspect tires for sidewall bulging and cracking

  • Check rims for internal cracks or air leaks

  • Test lane-keeping assist in construction zones

  • Verify infotainment system stability during operation

  • Ensure backup camera functions consistently in reverse

  • Confirm service brakes are responsive after software updates

  • Inspect for exhaust smoke and unpleasant odors when idling

2025 Volvo XC90 Common Problems by Component

23 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

5
4
3
3
3
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)BACK OVER PREVENTION (4)SERVICE BRAKES (3)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)VISIBILITY/WIPER (2)LANE DEPARTURE (1)TIRES (1)Other/I am not sure (1)Other (3)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

5 complaints

Owners report several electrical system issues with the 2025 Volvo XC90. A common problem involves the vehicle's interface and infotainment system frequently shutting down, sometimes while driving, which includes the entire system going blank and affecting safety features like collision audio cues. Some owners describe the vehicle unexpectedly slowing or shutting down, displaying messages like "Engine Has Now Stopped," with one report indicating this occurred at approximately 2,300 miles. Additionally, there are complaints about remote start functionality issues, where the vehicle fails to transition to normal operating mode without restarting. These issues pose potential safety risks, particularly when they occur at highway speeds or affect critical driving information.

5 complaints total

BACK OVER PREVENTION

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2025 Volvo XC90 frequently report issues with the backup camera and associated systems. Common symptoms include the camera becoming inoperable or displaying a "temporarily unavailable" message when the vehicle is in reverse, often requiring a system reboot that does not resolve the issue. These problems are reported even after dealership interventions and occur within a few weeks of ownership, with one report noting a failure at 100 miles. One owner describes a crash due to the camera's failure to provide an alert for an object, although no injuries were reported. Additionally, multiple complaints indicate that the vehicle's screens and systems crash repeatedly, affecting various functionalities such as cross-traffic alerts and air conditioning.

4 complaints total1 crash

SERVICE BRAKES

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2025 Volvo XC90 report issues with the service brakes, particularly following software updates. Complaints frequently mention brake failure or unresponsiveness, with one incident involving a crash when the vehicle failed to stop downhill. Symptoms described include unresponsive brakes, multiple warning lights, and brake failure warnings on the dashboard. These issues often occur shortly after software updates or at low mileage, around 5,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as one report includes a crash and loss of control, highlighting potential risks for drivers and passengers.

3 complaints total1 crash
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

Owners of the 2025 Volvo XC90 frequently report issues with the vehicle's infotainment system, such as incorrect speed limit indicators, random reboots, and poor touch sensitivity. Additionally, lane departure assist struggles to identify lanes correctly in construction zones, leading to over-correction attempts. Another recurring problem involves the vehicle emitting smoke from the exhaust during stops or when accelerating from a stop, with a burning metal or wire smell noted by owners, though no dashboard warnings appear. These issues are reported from the initial use of the vehicle, with no specific mileage mentioned. Safety implications include reduced visibility due to smoke and potential lane departure mishaps.

3 complaints total
VISIBILITY/WIPER (2 complaints)

VISIBILITY/WIPER

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report issues with the visibility and wiper systems of the 2025 Volvo XC90, primarily involving defective haze in the rear passenger windows that distorts visibility. Another complaint highlights problems with window fogging and camera visibility during foggy conditions, which contributed to a crash while reversing. This incident also involved a failure of the automatic braking system, which did not activate despite being engaged. The issues with visibility were noted during a period when the vehicle experienced software upgrade problems, which resolved after the update completion. These complaints suggest potential safety implications, particularly in low-visibility conditions, with damages reported exceeding $3,000.

2 complaints total1 crash
LANE DEPARTURE (1 complaints)

LANE DEPARTURE

1 complaint
2025-12-30

The contact owns a 2025 Volvo XC90. The contact stated that while driving through a construction zone at an undisclosed speed, the lane-keeping assist malfunctioned, causing the vehicle to become erratic, which required the contact to forcefully engage the steering wheel to regain control of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 18,000.

TIRES (1 complaints)

TIRES

1 complaint
2026-04-06

The original OEM tires on a 2025 Volvo XC90 (purchased new in March 2025) failed prematurely due to what appears to be a manufacturing defect. Tire size: [e.g. 275/45R20]. Brand: [e.g. Pirelli Scorpion]. DOT: 193 7B594P 1924 (manufactured week 19 of 2024). The vehicle's original tires were removed in November 2025 for winter tire installation, at which point the odometer showed 6,808 miles. The tires were stored indoors in bags and never used again until April 2026, when a professional tire shop (Discount Tire) refused to remount them on the vehicle citing unsafe condition. The tires exhibit severe sidewall bulging, starburst cracking indicating internal structural failure, and at least one tire shows a deep gash with internal steel cords exposed. Three of the four original tires are affected. The fourth original tire was replaced in June 2025 after it failed during normal highway driving - the cause was attributed to a road hazard at the time but is now believed to be the same underlying defect. The replacement tire (a different unit purchased separately) shows no defects whatsoever. The safety risk is significant: three tires with structural sidewall failure were on an active vehicle for the first 6,808 miles of its life, including at highway speeds. One tire experienced an in-service failure. The remaining three deteriorated to the point a professional installer deemed them unsafe to mount. The failed tires are available for inspection. The problem has been confirmed by an independent tire service center (Discount Tire) who refused to install due to safety concerns. The manufacturer has not yet inspected the tires. There were no warning lamps or prior symptoms before the June 2025 in-service failure, and no visible signs of the sidewall damage were observed until the tires were removed from storage in April 2026.

Other/I am not sure (1 complaints)

Other/I am not sure

1 complaint
2026-02-25

I am filing this complaint regarding misleading and inconsistent safety labeling on the Nuna REVV convertible car seat. The car seat’s physical sticker, the Nuna website product page, and the user manual all contain conflicting information about the height and weight limits for different installation configurations (vehicle belt vs. lower anchor, rear-facing vs. forward-facing). Specifically: • The website listed rear-facing use with vehicle belt as 5–30 lbs with a height range of 18–34 inches, and lower anchor belt as 5–30 lbs. The sticker on the seat displayed the height limit only for certain configurations, suggesting height was not a factor for others. • After I raised the discrepancy, Nuna’s own customer service team initially told me the sticker was correct and the lower anchor configuration had different limits. They later reversed course after consulting their CPST team, confirming that the rear-facing maximum is 30 lbs OR 34 inches for ALL installation methods — contradicting what both the sticker and website indicated. • This means both the NHTSA-approved sticker on the seat and the website contained incorrect or misleading information at the time of purchase. My [XXX] son ([XXX]) has been using this seat rear-facing based on the published specifications, but is actually over the height limit. This is a serious safety concern. Car seat labels are NHTSA-regulated and are the primary resource parents use to determine safe use. Conflicting information between the label, manual, and website creates a situation where children may be used outside the seat’s tested parameters without their parents’ knowledge. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate the labeling on the Nuna REVV to determine whether it meets federal safety labeling standards and whether a corrective action or recall is warranted. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaintSafety-related
2025-09-09Crash reported

Two major incidents occurred: 1)My fiance and I were driving on the highway with our four children at a speed of >50 MPH. There were no cars around us (front or sides) and no debris in the road, and the automatic emergency braking system engaged and brought the car to an abrupt stop in the middle of the highway. It happened a second time shortly thereafter at a speed around 30 MPH, again without any obstructions. I'm happy to provide the car for inspection upon request unless the manufacturer takes responsibility for this very serious malfunction and grants us a manufacturer buy-back. Stopping abruptly for no reason on the highway could have caused someone to rear-end us at a high speed and could have caused a very serious or fatal crash. I have spoken to the dealer multiple times (and I filed a complaint with Volvo Customer Care several weeks ago) and they say they'll try to "fix" it, but it's not a problem that we can ever risk having happen again. It is being inspected at the dealership now. There was no warning that this would occur. 2) There is a feature called "auto hold" whereby the driver can take their foot off the brake while sitting at a stop light and the car doesn't move again until the driver puts their foot on the accelerator. I was sitting at a stop light, using the auto hold feature, and even though I didn't put my foot on the accelerator, auto hold disengaged and the car started moving and hit the person in front of me. The malfunction of both the "auto hold" feature and the crash avoidance feature caused me to get in an auto accident. The dealer has the car and they're waiting for Volvo Customer Care to give them instructions about what to do. There were no warnings (like what normally would happen if the car is approaching something it thinks it might hit).

WHEELS (1 complaints)

WHEELS

1 complaint
2025-06-05

I am filing this report regarding a serious and potentially dangerous issue with my 2025 Volvo XC90 (VIN: [XXX]), purchased new on [XXX]. On [XXX], with only 4,516 miles, I experienced a sudden and unexplained drop in tire pressure while driving. I pulled over safely, replaced the flat with a temporary tire, and took it to a local tire shop. The technician informed me that the rear passenger-side rim had a severe internal crack on the inside barrel, causing an air leak. There was no visible damage to the tire, no pothole impact, no curb hit—only a clean break in the rim, which suggests a possible structural or manufacturing defect. I immediately brought the car to the original dealership (Volvo Cars Clear Lake in Friendswood, TX), where Service Advisor Jared Black dismissed my concern and refused to cover the repair under warranty, claiming the rim must have hit a rock. I disagreed and requested documentation of this finding, but Mr. Black initially refused to provide the inspection report. After persistent arguing and a 5-hour wait at the service center, I was finally given a report showing a $2,338.99 wheel replacement recommendation, not covered by warranty. I bought a Volvo for its safety reputation, but this rim cracked under normal driving conditions and low mileage. A failure like this at highway speeds could have been catastrophic. I believe this warrants an official safety investigation to determine whether other 2025 Volvo XC90 rims may be at risk of similar failure. Please investigate. I have documentation available and am willing to provide additional information. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

When Do 2025 Volvo XC90 Problems Start?

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

5,000 milesService brake failures
2,000–3,000 milesElectrical system shutdowns

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).

Top Pick
74
Good

2025

(Current Model)

3Recalls
23Complaints
73
Good

2026

2Recalls
2Complaints
73
Good

2024

3Recalls
26Complaints

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
2025(selected)74/100+1Good323
202473/100+3Good326
202370/100-2Good639
202272/1000Good427
202172/100+1Good517
202071/1000Good724
201971/1000Good631
201871/100Good340

2025 Volvo XC90 Reliability by Powertrain

The 2025 Volvo XC90 is available with 2powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.

Reliability comparison across powertrain options
PowertrainComplaintsRecallsIncidents*Crash Rating
Gas23245 out of 5
PHEV0105 out of 5
Total2334

NHTSA tracks complaints by vehicle configuration when that detail is available. Model-level reports that do not identify a specific powertrain are included in Total but not assigned to a row. A plus sign indicates a confirmed minimum; — means no complaints could be attributed to that specific powertrain. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.

* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2025 Volvo XC90 reliable?
The 2025 Volvo XC90 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 74/100. It is reasonably reliable with 3 recalls and 23 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2025 Volvo XC90?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2025 Volvo XC90 include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5 complaints), BACK OVER PREVENTION (4 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), VISIBILITY/WIPER (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2025 Volvo XC90 have?
The 2025 Volvo XC90 has 3 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2025 Volvo XC90 expensive to maintain?
The 2025 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 74/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2025 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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