The Volvo XC40 is a compact luxury SUV made to compete with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLA, the Audi Q3, and the BMW X1. The XC40 leads the segment when it comes to clever use of space, ergonomics, and seating space while it lacks after the competition when it comes to performance models and desirability.
The Volvo XC40 seems to offer a fairly dependable performance as it is an above-average reliability car in its class. The most common issues the XC40 tends to experience as associated with the starter motor, the brake hydraulic unit, issues with the hybrid systems, structure issues, and electrical problems.
Some of these are known defects of many Volvo models such as the hydraulic issue while others like the starter motor are primarily affecting Volvo XC40 models. All of these issues are common which means that many, but not all XC40 owners experience them.
If you also want to be in a group that does not experience these issues, be sure to maintain your XC40 and check these components regularly. If you do that, you will be able to spot the issue before it happens.
Volvo XC40 – Starter motor issues
Many Volvo XC40 owners have reported having issues with the starter motor. These issues typically include not being able to start the car, the start/stop system malfunctioning, and weird sounds while trying to start the car up. Volvo even issued a recall because of this which means that many XC40 models are affected.
Be sure to go online and look for the R10143 Volvo recall code and try to cross-reference the XC40 model you are looking at in order to see if it needs to be repaired. The number of XC40 models affected by these issues is measured in tens of thousands of models, so be sure to check.
More about Volvo XC40 T3 Engine issues
Volvo XC40 – Brake hydraulic unit
The XC40 is plagued by a known Volvo issue in which the welding connection between the motor’s shaft and the brake hydraulic unit magnet package is missing or partially missing. If that is indeed the case, the XC40 is not going to be able to rely on many essential systems such as the ABS, the ESC, the brake booster, and many safety features such as automatic braking.
These issues can also lead to lengthening the stopping distance which also increases the chances of having an accident. Volvo issued an R10120 recall code for this issue, so be sure to see if the XC40 you are looking at is part of this recall.
Volvo XC40 – Hybrid system issues
The Volvo XC40 is best when bought in a hybrid form which means that the hybrid powertrains are the reasons why many people opt for the XC40 in the first place. However, a hybrid system is exponentially more complex when compared to just a standard gas engine which means that there are many potential issues just waiting to happen.
As such, the XC40 is known to sometimes suffer from the high-voltage system disconnecting during driving which can cause an accident. The worst thing is that the system is known to disengage without any prior warning which means that if this happens at a bad time, it can easily cause a huge accident.
More about Volvo XC40 Mild Hybrid issues
Volvo XC40 – Structure issues
The Volvo X40 is a luxury compact SUV which means that it is not designed with off-roading in mind. Many owners have reported the XC40 having issues such as panel gap issues even without ever going off-road. Common issues include tailgate cracking, windshield cracking, and sunroof cracking.
Another issue worth mentioning is the visibility in general as the XC40 does come with two rather large rear blind spots. All in all, these can not necessarily be solved all that easily which means that Volvo is also not as likely to help you.
Volvo XC40 – Electrical issues
The Volvo XC40 is a luxury car which means that it is packed with loads of high-tech comfort and safety features that are sure to impress you, but only if they operate as intended. For starters, many owners have complained about the A/C not being able to get the car up to temperature due to issues with the A/C condenser.
Secondly, the infotainment system is sometimes known to disengage completely which requires you to restart the car. Thirdly, phone connectivity can also be an issue, especially if you rely on features such as Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
More to look for when you want to buy a used Volvo XC40.
FAQ Section
Is the Volvo XC40 worth it?
The Volvo XC40 is one of the most competitive compact luxury SUVs on the market which means that it indeed is worth it if you are after such a car. The XC40 is a popular choice for those who simply want a higher-end experience without being too showy or attention-grabbing.
The strong suits of the XC40 are the hybrid powertrains, safety credentials, and overall space as it offers the most space out of all of its competitors. However, the XC40 does lack when it comes to dynamics, handling, and potentially even design.
More about Volvo XC40 2023 version.
How safe is the Volvo XC40?
The Volvo XC40 is a through-and-through 5-star rated car when it comes to safety. This comes as no surprise as Volvo has always managed to offer incredibly well-built cars that are able to stand the test of time. Furthermore, the XC40 also comes with lots of safety options from the factory which is not the case with its German rivals.
Even the most prominent safety features can be had with the XC40, and most of them are also cheaper when compared to those of its German rivals. Volvo is the last brand out there that is willing to skimp on safety, and that is indeed apparent.
How much does the Volvo XC40 cost to maintain?
According to several online sources, the XC40 costs around $10,000-$11,000 in maintenance and repairs in its first ten years of ownership. These also state that there is a 35% the XC40 is likely going to experience major repairs during this period.
However, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact maintenance costs as these are heavily dependent on the model, the mileage, and the equipment list.
