The 2021 Volvo XC60 has good reliability. There are 5 recalls and 31 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Volvo XC60. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (9), Steering (5), Service Brakes (4).
XC60 reliability snapshot
75/100
Latest model-year reliability score
4.0/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$746
Avg annual repair cost vs $859 category avg
#4/11
Ranking in luxury compact SUVs · better than 64% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
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Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Electrical System9
Steering5
Service Brakes4
Unknown Or Other3
Lane Departure2
Seat Belts1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Volvo XC60
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Test infotainment system for blackouts and rebooting
☐Check power steering for stiffness or locking
☐Inspect brake pads and rotors for wear, especially rear brakes
☐Verify BLIS warning lights activate consistently
☐Test Pilot Assist for erratic lane changes or braking failures
☐Check for water leaks in trunk and under carpets
☐Inspect tailgate operation for unexpected closing
What owners reported
2021 Volvo XC60 owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 3 crashes and 4 injuries to NHTSA for the 2021 Volvo XC60. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints9
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Owners report several electrical system issues with the 2021 Volvo XC60, including the Sensus infotainment system and instrument panel going black, which disrupts drive modes and disables features like cruise control. Complaints frequently mention unexpected loss of power while driving, with some instances leading to the vehicle stalling or failing to respond to braking, contributing to one reported crash and injury. Multiple owners describe problems with the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), electric windows, and seats ceasing to function, often after recent software updates. These issues are noted at various mileages, with some occurring as early as 18,000 miles. Buyers should be aware of the potential safety risks associated with these electrical malfunctions, including loss of vehicle control.
Owners of the 2021 Volvo XC60 frequently report issues with the steering system, primarily involving a sudden loss of power steering assistance. Symptoms typically include the steering wheel becoming stiff or locking up, often without warning, and sometimes accompanied by a "Power Steering Service Urgent" message on the dashboard. These incidents occur at various speeds, with some reports indicating occurrences as early as a month after purchase and continuing at mileages up to 45,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as multiple owners describe near-collisions due to the inability to control the vehicle's direction. Some reports also mention a grinding noise from the front end and link the issue to a steering rack failure, although not all vehicles are included in related recalls.
Owner complaints4
SERVICE BRAKES
Owners of the 2021 Volvo XC60 frequently report premature brake wear, particularly on rear brakes, with some needing replacement as early as 20,000 miles. Common symptoms include vibrating brake pedals and steering wheels, often occurring during moderate braking, which several owners experience between 30,000 and 42,000 miles. Some complaints also mention discrepancies in brake inspections when purchasing used vehicles, leading to concerns about safety and maintenance history. No crashes or loss of control are reported, but the described issues may imply safety risks due to compromised braking performance. This information is useful for potential buyers to consider potential brake maintenance needs when evaluating a used Volvo XC60.
Owner complaints3
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners of the 2021 Volvo XC60 report several issues related to vehicle automation and component operation. Complaints frequently mention problems with the Pilot Assist system, noting erratic behavior such as unexpected lane changes, steering towards obstacles, and failure to brake for stopped vehicles. Additionally, issues with the tailgate are reported, where it unexpectedly closes, sometimes striking individuals, despite prior repairs. Another common concern involves steering wheel vibrations at high speeds and during parking maneuvers, alongside loud engine noises and windshield cracking without external impact. These issues are reported across various timelines, with some occurring shortly after purchase, and have potential safety implications, particularly with the Pilot Assist and tailgate malfunctions.
Owners of the 2021 Volvo XC60 report issues with the BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) warning light malfunctioning and displaying intermittently. Complaints frequently mention that the warning light on both the passenger and driver sides activates inconsistently, with one owner noting the indicator works about 40-50% of the time. The issue is first observed during long-distance travel, such as trips from Florida to Massachusetts, but persists despite software updates from dealers. Owners describe the system failing to provide warnings when passing or being passed by other vehicles, with one noting the indicator does not activate if there is a 9 mph speed difference between vehicles. While no accidents are reported, the intermittent functionality of the BLIS warning light could potentially lead to unsafe lane changes.
2021 XC60 recalls (5)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 XC60. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 25V179000Mar 24, 2025
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.
STEERINGNHTSA 23V001000Jan 5, 2023
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.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICNHTSA 21V716000Sep 15, 2021
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 S90L, 2020-2021 XC60, and XC90 vehicles. An improperly welded rotor and shaft may separate within the integrated brake system.
Consequence: Separation of the rotor and shaft may cause a reduction in braking assistance and a loss of the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the hydraulic unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 22, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10120.
SEAT BELTSNHTSA 21V682000Sep 1, 2021
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 XC40, XC 40 Recharge, V60CC, V90, V90CC, XC90, and 2021-2022 V60, XC60, S60 vehicles. The seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence: An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 13, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10111.
AIR BAGS, SEAT BELTSNHTSA 21V001000Jan 7, 2021
Volvo Cars USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 Volvo V60, V60 Cross Country, V90, V90 Cross Country, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. The Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) control unit may not have been properly attached to the car body and may detach during a crash.
Consequence: A detached SRS control unit can decrease the performance of occupant protection systems such as air bags, seat belts, and high voltage battery disconnect, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Volvo Car will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, tighten the SRS control unit mounting screws, free of charge. The recall began February 12, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10068.
2021 Volvo XC60 on the road
41,582 2021 Volvo XC60 units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 Volvo XC60 stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
The 2021 Volvo XC60 demonstrates solid reliability, scoring well above the segment average. The model's reliability score of 83 out of 100 indicates a strong performance, suggesting a lower overall risk for potential buyers. Despite being a facelift year, the vehicle maintains a commendable reliability standing.
Complaints are relatively few and somewhat concentrated, with the electrical system being the most frequently cited issue. Other areas such as steering and service brakes show lesser concern, with only a handful of complaints each. The recall count is elevated, which may warrant attention, but it does not overshadow the vehicle's overall reliability.
In summary, the 2021 Volvo XC60 presents an above-average reliability profile with a moderate level of risk, making it a solid choice within its segment.
What you get in a 2021 Volvo XC60 report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
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2021 Volvo XC60 — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Volvo XC60 reliable?
The 2021 Volvo XC60 demonstrates solid reliability, scoring well above the segment average. The model's reliability score of 83 out of 100 indicates a strong performance, suggesting a lower overall risk for potential buyers. Despite being a facelift year, the vehicle maintains a commendable reliability standing.
How many recalls does the 2021 Volvo XC60 have?
5 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Volvo XC60. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Volvo XC60 problems?
The most-reported 2021 Volvo XC60 problem areas are: Electrical System (9), Steering (5), Service Brakes (4).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Volvo XC60?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Volvo XC60, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
