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2021 Volvo XC60 problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2021 Volvo XC60 has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated November 2, 2026.
- 0safety recalls
- 32owner complaints
- 3crash reports
- 0fire reports
- 8%fail the UK MOT
32 complaints, against an average of 38 for the other 14 Volvo XC60 model years.
Every Volvo XC60 model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2021 Volvo XC60?
The components named most often in the 32 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2021 Volvo XC60 owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 32 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
Has the 2021 Volvo XC60 been recalled?
NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2021 Volvo XC60 as of November 2, 2026. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN before you rely on this.
Is the 2021 Volvo XC60 recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSABCM2 SW – Safety Notice
Risk: Affected vehicles may experience a temporary loss of braking functionality after coasting downhill with ‘B’ mode selected or when using One Pedal Drive. This could potentially lead to a collision.
Fix: Install modified software via an Over the Air (OTA) update.
UK DVSASPA1 Cell Modules
Risk: On affected vehicles the High Voltage (HV) Battery may have a manufacturing defect which could cause the battery cells to overheat when the HV Battery is fully charged. In a worst-case scenario there is a risk of fire when the vehicle is parked up with a fully charged HV Battery.
Fix: Check and replace the HV Battery if necessary and install modified software.
UK DVSABCM2 – Push Road
Risk: The rod connecting the brake pedal to the brake booster may not have been assembled correctly. The final torque might not be according to manufacturing specification due to deviations in the equipment. If the rod does disconnect the mechanical connection between brake pedal and brake booster cannot be guaranteed. In the worst-case scenario if the rod disconnects the brake pedal function cannot be guaranteed
Fix: A Volvo retailer will check and if necessary tighten the rod to correct specification.
UK DVSAA software error may prevent the engine control module from starting the engine
Risk: The Engine Control Module (ECM) may prevent the combustion engine from starting.
Fix: Download updated software.
UK DVSAPotentially insufficient or missing welding connection in the hydraulic unit of the brake system
Risk: There may be an insufficient or missing welding connection in the Hydraulic Unit of the Brake System.
Fix: Replace the Hydraulic Unit.
UK DVSAVehicles may have the supplementary restraint system control unit incorrectly tightened to the car body
Risk: Vehicles may have the Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) control unit incorrectly tightened to the car body.
Fix: Inspect and tighten the SRS control unit.
EU Safety GateSome problems with the high-voltage battery can cause an overheating of the battery cells when the battery is fully charged.This can lead the vehicle catch fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 01/04/2025
EU Safety GateThe nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions are above the regulatory limits.Excessive NOx emissions pose a risk to the environment.
Measures: Type of economic operator to whom the measure(s) were ordered: Other; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateDue to a manufacturing defect, there may be a loose item within the steering gear.This can cause the steering to lock while driving, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Distributor; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 29/12/2022
EU Safety GateThere is a risk of turbo charger breakdown, which could damage engine parts and lead to stalling.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Distributor; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe welding connection between the motor’s rotor shaft and the magnet package in the hydraulic unit of the brake system may be partially…The welding connection between the motor’s rotor shaft and the magnet package in the hydraulic unit of the brake system may be partially or fully missing.As a result, the brake boost, the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and the electronic stability control (ESC) could be disabled, resulting in less deceleration than normal, leading to increased risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Distributor; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe 15A fuse to the low-pressure fuel pump may blow.As a result, the engine could stall and not be able start, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Distributor; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe control unit on the SRS (Supplementary Restraint System) may not be attached to the car body according to the specifications.As a result, the occupant protection function of the SRS could be impaired, increasing the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Distributor; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 05/01/2021
EU Safety GateThe fastening nut of the fastening part of the front wipers is not tightened with the correct torque.As a result, the front windshield wipers may malfunction increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Distributor; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 24/08/2020
How often does the 2021 Volvo XC60 fail its MOT?
Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2021, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What do 2021 Volvo XC60 owners report?
12 of the 32 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
The contact owns a 2021 Volvo XC60. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds and turning, the front end of the vehicle made an abnormal grinding sound. Additionally, the contact stated that the steering wheel seized after turning, which required the contact to jam the steering wheel for the steering wheel to return to the center. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the steering rack had failed internally and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure…
The contact owns a 2021 Volvo XC60 PHEV. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V179000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool showed no open recall; however, the contact had received the recall notification.
Driving as normal through a major intersection and the car began to jerk and stutter when trying to accelerate. there was no warning or symptom prior to this issue, but upon it happening, the turtle warning light appeared and had the display had an engine system message saying "reduced performance". I was able to pull over. Then turned the car off and back on, which then allowed me to pull in to the nearest parking lot. The warning light remained on. The car was towed to the nearest Volvo dealership. They confirmed the issue was a failure of the fuel pump. They replaced the fuel pump. Luckily…
Around 10/26/2024 I purchased a 2021 Volvo XC60 from Carvana. Carvana sells vehicles with a 100 day limited warranty. The manufacturer warranty was expired at this time. Carvana states they do an inspection of the vehicle prior to delivery. When I received the vehicle, I noticed the steering wheel would vibrate hard when I came to a stop. I took the Volvo to the local Volvo dealership to perform a full multi-point inspection. They found that the brake pads were at 1-2 MM with warped rotors on the front wheels. The back wheels had 3 MM brake pads. I called Carvana on 11/22/2024 to discuss the…
The contact owns a 2021 Volvo XC60. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact pulled over to the shoulder, and the vehicle continuously turned on and off independently. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who determined that the auxiliary battery power was low and that the vehicle needed a software update. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 18,000.
August 23rd, 2024, the car started hesitating when gas was applied. The transmission light came on, then the parking brake light came on saying it was turned off, the check engine light came on, the volvo on call light came on, and the car wouldnt turn off. I moved the shift into different gears, and was able to turn the car off. I waited a while and started the car again. This time the on call, and check engine light stayed on. I called the dealership, was told it was probably a low battery. Had me come in Monday the 26th to have it checked. But Saturday the car wouldn't start right away, and…
6/8/23: Vehicle in shop for 30K warranty service. Front brake pads flagged yellow for wear. Recommendation they be addressed next visit at 40K miles. By 35K, Brake pedal was vibrating and steering wheel shaking upon moderate braking. Made appt. With local dealer which required over a month wait. 1/5/24: Dealer confirmed problem. Despite their own Technical Service Bulletin [XXX], dated [XXX], which recommended warranty replacement of brake pads, the service writer, Joe Barber at Volvo of St. Louis, 7700 Manchester Rd. refused to follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Instead, he quoted me…
While driving, lost power very suddenly. A turtle comes across the dash. My vehicle wouldn’t start for roughly 20 minutes. After the 20 minutes, it starts up, but the check engine light is on. Nervous that my car isn’t safe to drive, I contact corporate Volvo, since there is NO information in the manual for what this means- they told me to contact my local. So I call them and they state it’s safe to drive and they could get me into the schedule 3 weeks out…. Then, I get to my appointment and they then tell me my brakes and rotators are completely shot at 42,000 miles.
My car continued to move even with the brake pedal pressed, and collision avoidance systems did not turn on. This is very unsafe - a car that doesn’t respond when the driver brakes puts everyone else on the road in danger. The first time this happened was on Sep. 6, 2022. I was driving on the highway when the car in front of me stopped abruptly. I started to brake. The distance between our cars was large enough that I should have been able to stop safely, but my car continued to move. I was unable to stop the vehicle and crashed into the car in front of me. At the time, I thought it was my…
1.What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Blind spot sensor repeatedly malfunctioning. Vehicle generates "service required" message, and it appears that blind spot monitors fail to illuminate. Child safety locks also deactivate without driver input. Vehicle is currently available for inspection. 2. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Dealer has updated the software multiple times but has not attempted to assess the hardware. 3. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the…
Side impact curtain air bags only deployed on right side (side of impact), causing head concussion from hitting driverside window on left side. Vehicle has been towed for repair, but may still be available for inspection for a short time. Fire department stated airbags tried but failed deployment. Contacted dealer. Dealer said contact Volvo North America. Volvo has yet to connect me to the right person or department.
The car started to move and accelerate with brake pressed. Accident prevention system did not activate itself. It did not display any warnings as it typically do during parking and being close to other cars. The car caused an accident with mild injuries to the driver of the other car, but could have hit a pedestrian or go to the intersection and involved with an accident with a car moving perpendicularly at a higher speed. I am waiting for an investigator from Volvo and Travelers Insurance. Prior to the accident the electronic display of the car started to malfunction. I have a video of the…
2021 Volvo XC60: questions owners ask
Is the 2021 Volvo XC60 reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 32 complaints with NHTSA about the 2021 Volvo XC60; the most common categories were electrical system (10, 31.3%), service brakes (7, 21.9%), forward collision avoidance (6, 18.8%). There are no safety recalls listed for this model year. 3 complaints mention a crash, 4 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Volvo XC60?
Across 32 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are electrical system (31.3% of complaints), service brakes (21.9% of complaints), forward collision avoidance (18.8% of complaints), engine (15.6% of complaints), lane departure (15.6% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2021 Volvo XC60 have any recalls?
As of November 2026, NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2021 Volvo XC60. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why does my 2021 Volvo XC60 stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
3 of the 32 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Volvo XC60 (9.4%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "While driving, lost power very suddenly. A turtle comes across the dash. My vehicle wouldn’t start for roughly 20 minutes. After the 20 minutes, it starts up, but the check engine light is on." (NHTSA complaint 11529485, June 2023). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2021 Volvo XC60?
3 of the 32 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Volvo XC60 (9.4%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "While driving, lost power very suddenly. A turtle comes across the dash. My vehicle wouldn’t start for roughly 20 minutes. After the 20 minutes, it starts up, but the check engine light is on." (NHTSA complaint 11529485, June 2023). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own XC60
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved November 2, 2026. Model year 2021 only; combines NHTSA's entries for XC60 T5, XC60 T6, XC60 T8, XC60 T8 POLESTAR ENGINEERED and XC60PHEV. How these reports are made.