2018 Volvo Xc60 Safety Report
2018 Volvo XC60: Low Complaint Volume, but Multiple Safety Recalls for Critical Components
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Volvo Xc60
Reliability Score
The 2018 Volvo Xc60 receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2018 Volvo Xc60
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Volvo Xc60:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front Seat Fastener/Nut Issues Two separate recalls (NHTSA Campaign Numbers 23V-820 and 19V-046) address issues with front seat bolts being improperly tightened or front seat rail rear flange nuts being missing, increasing injury risk in a crash. |
High | Common | N/A miles |
| Windshield Wiper Malfunction A recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 19V-046) indicates that nuts securing the front wipers may not have been sufficiently tightened, leading to reduced wiper function and impaired vision. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Tailgate Lifting Arm Failure A recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 19V-046) notes that tailgate lifting arms may freeze and separate in cold temperatures, potentially projecting rearward with force and causing injury. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Electrical System/Software Glitches Complaints describe dashboard lights going out, engine shutting off, and issues with the Vehicle Connectivity Module (subject to recall 19V-046 for GPS location failure). |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Brake Premature Wear/Malfunction Multiple complaints (4 under SERVICE BRAKES) report premature wear of brake pads and rotors, and instances where brakes did not stop the vehicle effectively. |
Medium | Occasional | 20000-27000 miles |
| Engine Shutting Off/Failure To Restart Several complaints describe the engine shutting off while driving or failing to restart, sometimes linked to water leaks affecting electronics. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Volvo Xc60:
Reports of premature brake wear (pads and rotors) and instances of brake malfunction where the vehicle did not stop as expected.
Issues include dashboard lights failing, engine shutting off due to electrical faults, and general computer failures.
Complaints regarding the Pilot Assist/Lane Keep system disengaging without adequate warning.
Issues related to tailgate lifting arms (subject to recall) and general structural integrity concerns.
Reports of the engine shutting off unexpectedly or failing to restart, sometimes linked to other electrical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Volvo Xc60
Is the 2018 Volvo XC60 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Volvo XC60 has a low number of overall complaints (35 total) but has been subject to 5 safety recalls addressing critical components like seats, wipers, and tailgate. While specific crash test ratings are unavailable, these recalls highlight potential safety risks that Volvo has identified and is addressing. The presence of 3 crashes and 4 injuries in the complaint data, though not directly attributed to specific defects, suggests that some reported issues could have safety implications.
What are common problems with the 2018 Volvo XC60?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Volvo XC60, based on NHTSA complaints, are related to 'SERVICE BRAKES' (4 complaints), 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (3 complaints), and 'LANE DEPARTURE' systems (3 complaints). Specific problems include premature brake wear, electrical failures leading to dashboard lights going out or the engine shutting off, and the Pilot Assist system disengaging without sufficient warning. Additionally, there are 5 recalls addressing issues with seat fasteners, windshield wipers, tailgate mechanisms, and vehicle connectivity software.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Volvo XC60?
Yes, the 2018 Volvo XC60 has 5 active recalls. These include issues with improperly tightened front seat bolts, missing front seat rail nuts, insufficiently tightened windshield wiper nuts, freezing tailgate lifting arms, and software in the Vehicle Connectivity Module that could prevent GPS location from being provided to emergency personnel.
How does the 2018 Volvo XC60 perform in crash tests?
According to NHTSA, specific crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) for the 2018 Volvo XC60 are not available. Therefore, its performance in these standardized tests cannot be directly assessed from the provided data.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2018 Volvo XC60?
When considering a used 2018 Volvo XC60, pay close attention to the vehicle's recall history and ensure all 5 recalls have been addressed. Specifically, check for any signs of electrical issues, brake performance, and the functionality of advanced driver-assistance systems like Pilot Assist. Inquire about any past repairs related to water leaks, as these have been linked to significant electrical and transmission problems in some complaints.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the multiple safety recalls and recurring electrical and brake complaints, prospective buyers should ensure all recalls have been completed and thoroughly inspect the vehicle's electrical system and brake components before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Volvo Xc60
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Volvo Xc60. The data includes 35 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 4 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
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.