2016 Volvo Xc60 Safety Report
2016 VOLVO XC60 Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2016 Volvo Xc60
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2016 Volvo Xc60. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (3) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (37) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 3 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2017 | Compare against the 2017 Volvo Xc60 with 14 complaints and 4 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2015 | Check the 2015 Volvo Xc60 before buying across this generation. |
Volvo Xc60 Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Volvo Xc60 years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Volvo Xc60 | 14 | 4 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2015 Volvo Xc60 | 45 | 1 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2016 Volvo Xc60 Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2016 Volvo Xc60, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
14 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Volvo onlySeat Belts
5 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Seat Belts issues Volvo onlyUnknown Or Other
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Volvo onlyElectrical System,Unknown Or Other
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System,Unknown Or Other issues Volvo onlyService Brakes
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Volvo onlySeat Belts,Unknown Or Other
1 owner complaint mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Seat Belts,Unknown Or Other issues Volvo onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Volvo Xc60
Reliability Score
The 2016 Volvo Xc60 receives a reliability score of 85 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2016 Volvo Xc60
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2016 Volvo Xc60
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Volvo Xc60:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seat Belt Buckle Assembly Volvo has issued a recall for certain 2016-2017 XC90, S90, XC60, and V60 Cross Country models due to potential issues with the front seat belt buckle assembly. |
Medium | Occasional | 30k-60k miles |
| Electrical System Wiring Volvo has issued a recall for certain 2016 S60, V60, and V60CC models due to potential issues with fuses and circuit breakers in the electrical system. |
Medium | Occasional | 30k-60k miles |
| Oil Consumption Owners have reported significant oil consumption, with some vehicles consuming a quart of oil every 1,000 miles. This can lead to the oil warning light coming on, indicating a potential safety hazard. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Engine Shutdown There have been reports of engine shutdowns while driving, which could be dangerous. Ensure the vehicle is properly maintained and serviced. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Volvo Xc60:
Issues with the electrical system, including wiring and fuses, have been reported.
Recalls have been issued for issues with the front seat belt buckle assemblies.
Significant oil consumption has been reported, with some vehicles consuming a quart of oil every 1,000 miles.
There have been reports of engine shutdowns while driving, which could be dangerous.
Recall Details for the 2016 Volvo Xc60
The following 3 recalls have been issued for the 2016 Volvo Xc60 by NHTSA:
Summary: Volvo Cars of N.A., LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2008-2016 V70 and XC70, 2007-2016 S80, 2011-2018 S60 and V60, 2016-2018 S60 Cross Country, 2014-2020 S60L, 2009-2015 S80L, 2009-2016 XC60 and 2015-2018 V60 Cross Country vehicles. The flexible steel cable that connects the seat belt to the front outboard seating positions may fatigue over time, causing the seat belt to not secure the occupant in the event of a crash.
Consequence: An unsecured occupant has an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy: Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seat belt anchor cable for both front seats. The recall began December 10, 2020. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R10029.
Summary: Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 XC90, S90, XC60, V60 Cross Country, V60, S60 Cross Country, S60, and S60 Inscription vehicles manufactured February 16, 2015, to August 22, 2016. On the affected vehicles, the front passenger seat belt buckle attaching stud may loosen, allowing the buckle to separate from the seat belt bracket. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 210, "Seat Belt A...
Consequence: If the seat belt buckle separates from the bracket, the front seat passenger may not be adequately restrained in the event of a crash, increasing their risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy: Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front passenger seat belt buckle stud, replacing the seat belt buckle as needed, free of charge. The recall began January 2017. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R89708.
Summary: Volvo Cars of North America, LLC. (Volvo) is recalling certain model year 2016 Volvo S60, V60, V60CC, XC60, XC70, and S80 vehicles manufactured April 8, 2015 to August 19, 2015. In certain driving conditions when using the automatic engine stop/start function, the starter motor fuse may blow, preventing the car from restarting when necessary.
Consequence: If the vehicle is unexpectedly unable to be started in the middle of traffic, such as when stopped at an intersection, there is an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing starter motor fuse with a higher amperage fuse, free of charge. The recall began on October 26, 2015. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552 or by visiting http://volvo.custhelp.com. Volvo's number for this recall is R39574.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2016 Volvo Xc60
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2016 Volvo Xc60 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 2 complaints involved crashes. 1 involved fires.
Oil consumption has become a major issue and I am putting oil in every 1000 miles! I bought the vehicle certified pre owned in October 2023 and the oil light was consistently coming on early. However, it has since gotten much worse and is constantly burning through oil.
appears to be significant electrical issue or internal computer issue causing a safety issue
The component that failed was the oil consumption. I noticed it seemed to be using more oil than should be normal. It didn't seem to do it overnight. It seemed gradual, but over a short period of time, bc I haven't had the car that long. It wasn't super alarming but I was keeping an eye on it and would add more in here and there, as I like to keep it full. One morning, driving my son to school, I ...
Volvo xc60 sunroof drains clog and leak. Sunroof maintenance is not mentioned in owner's manual, and dealer does not clear drains during regular service unless specifically asked to. Leak causes damage to electronic systems including airbag system. While any sunroof has the potential to leak, this leak is caused by a design failure - their design makes it easier for debris to ingress into the trac...
I just purchased 2016 VolvoXC60. Looked up ti see 3 recalls it has. I went to Volvo Dealership in Culver City where I was told recalls where taken care of years ago. No recalls exist today? This raises the question if indeed where preformed on my new vehicle and why I submitting my concern to you today. If you can provide me with any information regarding this issue, I would be very appreciated! ...
Vechile is consuming oil rapidly, Warning light comes on says that the vehicle is unsafe to drive. We had an oil consumption test at the Franklin TN Volvo dealership and it failed. There is also a quality bulletin issued by Volvo and extended warranty to 100K miles or 8 years, we fall outside the years. The warning lights started coming on around 78K miles. This is a know vechile manufacturin...
See attached document for complaint.
Purchased a used 2016 Volvo XC60 from a BMW dealership. A month after purchase, oil light came on - so we added oil. Not long after, it came on again. Finally took the car to a Volvo dealership and they confirmed we have the "oil consumption" issue. There was a class action lawsuit against Volvo and they extended the warranty for this issue for 8 years or 100k miles. Unfortunately, we purchas...
Engin shut off while driving and would not start again. Fortunately, this happened in a parking lot. If this happened on a highway, there could have been a bad outcome. When the car shut off the steering became very heavy. Dealer says it was a result of skipped timing. Timing belt did not break and has about 10,000 miles on it. Dealer provided no reason as to why this happened. No warning signs ...
Car burns a quart of oil every thousand miles.
2016 volvo xc60 t5 has “srs airbag service urgent”. The message came without having any kind of an accident. The dealer says it’s due to electrical wiring or front seat movement.
See attached document for complaint
The contact owns a 2016 Volvo XC60. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where the vehicle was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted but the vehic...
The contact owns a 2016 Volvo XC60. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was an abnormal burning odor inside the vehicle. The "Low Oil" message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed and the contact was informed that the piston rings were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the fail...
Purchased the vehicle sometime in 2021. Been dealing with oil consumption issues since then. Always maintained the vehicle per manufacturer recommendations. At first I had to top off the oil here and there and didn’t think much of it. Forward to Sept 2023 I have to add a quart every 500 miles. I began to research about the oil consumption problem and learned the following: There was a letter that...
There was (still is) an issue with my 2016 Volvo XC60's electrical wiring. I was driving, about to get onto the highway when my volvo stalled on the on ramp. It wouldn't start, it couldn't be jumped. It had to be towed to the repair shop. They charged me over $1,000.00 for a brand new starter, and after they did it started for one day and then it broke down again. I couldn't even drive it out of t...
I was driving and the car started shaking and unable to accelerate. I pulled over and the car started smoking and a fire erupted under the hood. I vacated the vehicle and called 911. The car erupted in flames and burned down to the frame. The insurance inspector wasn't able to determine the cause of the fire.
My vehicle sustained catastrophic, permanent engine failure while I was driving, in two-way city traffic. Cars backed up behind me, I had difficulty opening my door because of oncoming traffic, and eventually was able to push it (and get help pushing) to the intersection gas station. No warning lights appeared on my dashboard before, during or afterward. Independent service center reports no bat...
Volvo XC60 is burning oil and putting off a smell. Approximately every 500 miles I am prompted to put in another quart of oil. No signs of leaking. Took the car into a mechanic to inspect and was notified this is a known Volvo problem and I'd need to take it to a dealership since there are several TSBs on it with this known issue. Issue has been progressively been getting worse since I purchas...
The engine is using a quart of oil every 1000 miles, There is no leaks or pools of oil on the ground under the car. This is one of the engines identified in a class action lawsuit filed for this same reason.
Showing 20 of 37 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Volvo Xc60
Has the 2016 VOLVO XC60 been recalled?
Yes, the 2016 VOLVO XC60 has 3 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2016 VOLVO XC60 have?
The 2016 VOLVO XC60 has 37 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 2 involved crashes. No injuries or deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2016 VOLVO XC60?
The 2016 VOLVO XC60 received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 5/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 VOLVO XC60?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2016 VOLVO XC60 involve engine (14 complaints), seat belts (5 complaints), unknown or other (3 complaints). Other affected components include electrical system,unknown or other, service brakes, seat belts,unknown or other.
How many crash reports does the 2016 VOLVO XC60 have?
There are 2 crash reports associated with the 2016 VOLVO XC60 out of 37 total complaints (5.4% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2016 VOLVO XC60 have?
There are 1 fire reports for the 2016 VOLVO XC60 out of 37 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2016 VOLVO XC60?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 VOLVO XC60.
How many injuries are reported for the 2016 VOLVO XC60?
No injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 VOLVO XC60.
Should I buy a 2016 VOLVO XC60?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 VOLVO XC60 is generally recommended. It has 37 complaints, 3 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2016 VOLVO XC60?
The components with the most failures on the 2016 VOLVO XC60 are: 1. ENGINE (14 complaints), 2. SEAT BELTS (5 complaints), 3. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), 4. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints), 5. SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 14 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2016 VOLVO XC60?
Ensure all recalls are addressed promptly and maintain the vehicle according to the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid potential safety hazards. The 2016 VOLVO XC60 has 37 NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2016 VOLVO XC60?
The 2016 VOLVO XC60 receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 37 owner complaints, 3 recalls, and 3 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Seat Belt Buckle Assembly and Electrical System Wiring.
What are the known issues with the 2016 VOLVO XC60?
Known issues with the 2016 VOLVO XC60 include: Seat Belt Buckle Assembly, Electrical System Wiring, Oil Consumption, Engine Shutdown. These are based on patterns found across 37 NHTSA complaints. 3 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Volvo XC60?
Yes, there are recalls for seat belt buckle assemblies and electrical system wiring issues. Ensure all recalls are addressed promptly.
What is the issue with oil consumption in the 2016 Volvo XC60?
The vehicle consumes a quart of oil every 1,000 miles, which can cause the oil warning light to come on, indicating a potential safety hazard.
Have there been any reports of engine shutdowns in the 2016 Volvo XC60?
Yes, there have been reports of engine shutdowns while driving, which could be dangerous. Ensure the vehicle is properly maintained and serviced.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Ensure all recalls are addressed promptly and maintain the vehicle according to the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid potential safety hazards.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Volvo Xc60
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Volvo Xc60. The data includes 37 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Volvo Xc60 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-17