2021 Volvo Xc60 Safety Report
2021 Volvo XC60: Low complaint volume, but 5 recalls address critical steering, brake, and electrical system risks.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Volvo Xc60
Reliability Score
The 2021 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 2021 Volvo Xc60
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Volvo Xc60:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steering Wheel Locking/Stiffening Multiple complaints describe the steering wheel locking up or becoming stiff, particularly at low speeds or during turns, nearly causing collisions. This aligns with a recall for double screws in the steering gear. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Loss Of Motive Power/Engine Stuttering Several drivers reported sudden loss of power, jerking, stuttering, and the 'turtle warning light' appearing, sometimes leading to the vehicle not starting for a period. This could be related to electrical or engine issues. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Brake System Malfunction/Reduced Assistance Complaints include the car moving with the brake pedal pressed, collision avoidance systems not activating, and vibrating brake pedals. A recall addresses potential separation of rotor and shaft in the integrated brake system. |
High | Occasional | 20000-35000 miles |
| Electrical System Failures (Blis, Infotainment, Windows) Drivers reported intermittent or complete failure of the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), electric windows, seats, ventilation, and the Sensus infotainment screen going black. One recall addresses high-voltage battery short circuits. |
Medium | Common | unknown miles |
| Tailgate Closing Unexpectedly One complaint noted the power tailgate closing unexpectedly on the user, despite a recall for tailgate struts. |
Low | Rare | unknown miles |
| Pilot Assist Erratic Behavior Reports of the Pilot Assist system directing the car into different lanes, towards guardrails, or failing to brake for stopped cars. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Volvo Xc60:
Steering wheel locking up or becoming stiff, often at low speeds, leading to near-misses. This is directly addressed by a recall.
Issues with braking effectiveness, including reduced assistance, vibration, and the vehicle moving despite brake pedal application. A recall exists for brake system components.
Malfunctions of the BLIS, infotainment screen blackouts, and general electrical failures. A recall addresses high-voltage battery short circuits.
Sudden loss of motive power, jerking, stuttering, and the 'reduced performance' warning light appearing.
Problems with the Pilot Assist system, including steering the vehicle into incorrect lanes or towards obstacles.
System failing to activate or prevent collisions when expected, particularly during low-speed maneuvers.
Seat belt buckle not latching or automatic locking retractors deactivating, impacting child restraint safety. Subject to a recall.
Rear door lock failing in the locked position, preventing opening from inside or outside.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Volvo Xc60
Is the 2021 Volvo XC60 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Volvo XC60 has a relatively low number of total complaints (32) but has been subject to 5 safety recalls addressing critical components like steering, brakes, and the electrical system. While no NHTSA crash test ratings are available, the recalls indicate potential serious safety risks that the manufacturer is working to mitigate. It's crucial to ensure all applicable recalls have been completed.
What are common problems with the 2021 Volvo XC60?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Volvo XC60 include steering problems (12.5% of complaints), service brake malfunctions (9.4%), and electrical system failures (6.3%), which can manifest as BLIS issues, infotainment blackouts, or loss of power. Engine-related issues like sudden power loss also account for 6.3% of complaints. Several of these common problems are directly linked to active safety recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Volvo XC60?
Yes, the 2021 Volvo XC60 has 5 active recalls. These include issues with the electrical system (high-voltage battery short circuit), steering (double screws in steering gear), service brakes (improperly welded rotor/shaft), seat belts (automatic locking retractors deactivating), and airbags (SRS control unit detachment). It is highly recommended to check if your specific vehicle is affected and ensure all recall repairs are completed.
How does the 2021 Volvo XC60 perform in crash tests?
NHTSA has not provided specific overall, frontal, side, or rollover crash test ratings for the 2021 Volvo XC60. Therefore, direct crash test performance data from NHTSA is not available for this model year.
What should I do if I own a 2021 Volvo XC60?
If you own a 2021 Volvo XC60, it is imperative to check if your vehicle is affected by any of the 5 active recalls, especially those related to steering, brakes, and the electrical system. Contact your Volvo dealer to schedule any necessary recall repairs immediately. Pay close attention to any unusual steering behavior, braking issues, or electrical malfunctions, and report them to your dealer and NHTSA.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the 5 recalls addressing critical safety components like steering and brakes, prospective buyers should verify all recall repairs have been completed. Be aware of potential electrical and engine issues, and consider an independent pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Volvo Xc60
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Volvo Xc60. The data includes 32 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.