2017 Volvo Xc90 Safety Report

2017 Volvo XC90 faces numerous recalls and concerning engine fire complaints despite proactive safety measures.

68Complaints
7Recalls
55/100Reliability Score
3Crash Reports
6Fire Reports
9Injuries
Most reported components: Engine (13)Unknown Or Other (10)Electrical System,Exterior Lighting,Visibility/Wiper (2)Electrical System (2)Unknown Or Other,Engine (2)Electrical System,Structure,Engine (2)Seat Belts (2)Latches/Locks/Linkages (2)Suspension (2)Forward Collision Avoidance (2)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Volvo Xc90

The 2017 Volvo XC90 presents a mixed safety picture, characterized by a high number of recalls addressing critical safety components, alongside a notable pattern of engine-related complaints, including several instances of vehicle fires. While NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for this specific model year, the seven recalls issued by Volvo indicate proactive measures to address potential safety defects. These recalls cover serious issues such as improperly tightened seat belt bolts (affecting restraint in a crash), software glitches impacting emergency call functionality and unintended seat movement, and defects in airbag deployment mechanisms. The most concerning aspect from the complaint data is the 'ENGINE' component, which accounts for 13 out of 68 total complaints (19%), including 6 reported fires and 3 crashes. Several complaints detail coolant leaks leading to engine fires, suggesting a potential systemic issue with the coolant system, despite a recall for a similar issue in the 2016 model year. The vehicle also has 9 reported injuries, further highlighting the severity of some of the reported malfunctions. Overall, while Volvo has addressed many issues through recalls, the persistent engine and electrical complaints, particularly those involving fires, warrant careful consideration.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Volvo Xc90 receives a reliability score of 55 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 2017 Volvo Xc90

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Volvo Xc90:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Coolant Leaks Leading To Fires
Multiple complaints detail coolant leaks from hoses (specifically the bleeder hose), leading to engine overheating and several instances of vehicle fires. This mirrors a recall for the 2016 model year.
High Occasional unknown miles
Seat Belt Buckle/Anchor Bolt Issues
Recalls indicate improperly tightened seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts, increasing injury risk in a crash. Also, front seat belt buckle separation and third-row seat belt retractor issues.
High Common all miles
Electrical System Malfunctions (Including Vcm And Instrument Cluster)
Complaints describe widespread electrical failures, including instrument cluster malfunction, Volvo On Call system issues, and problems with the Vehicle Connectivity Module (VCM) affecting emergency services.
Medium Common unknown miles
Door Latch/Lock Mechanism Failure
Rear and passenger-side door latches failing due to corrosion, preventing doors from opening or securely latching, especially in cold temperatures.
Medium Occasional unknown miles
Air Conditioning Evaporator Core Failure
Premature cracking and leaking of the A/C evaporator core, leading to loss of air conditioning and costly repairs.
Medium Occasional unknown miles
Brake Assist Loss/Failure
Reports of sudden loss of braking assist, accompanied by a hissing noise, leading to difficulty stopping the vehicle.
High 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 2017 Volvo Xc90:

Engine 19% of complaints

The most frequently reported component, with 13 complaints, including issues like coolant leaks, overheating, and several instances of engine fires.

Unknown Or Other 15% of complaints

Accounts for 10 complaints, often related to general vehicle malfunctions or issues not fitting specific categories.

Electrical System 10% of complaints

Multiple complaints (7 total, including combined categories) regarding various electrical malfunctions, instrument cluster failures, and software issues.

Seat Belts 6% of complaints

4 complaints, aligning with multiple recalls concerning seat belt buckle, anchor, and retractor issues.

Latches/Locks/Linkages 4% of complaints

2 complaints specifically about door latch/lock failures, preventing doors from opening or securing properly.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Volvo Xc90

Is the 2017 Volvo XC90 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Volvo XC90 has a concerning safety record with 68 total complaints, including 6 fires and 9 injuries. While there are 7 recalls addressing critical safety components like seat belts and airbags, the high number of engine-related complaints, particularly those involving fires, suggests potential underlying issues not fully resolved by recalls.

What are common problems with the 2017 Volvo XC90?

The most reported issues for the 2017 Volvo XC90 are engine-related (13 complaints), often involving coolant leaks and leading to fires. Other common problems include various electrical system malfunctions (7 complaints), seat belt issues (4 complaints), and door latch/lock failures (2 complaints).

Has the 2017 Volvo XC90 been recalled?

Yes, the 2017 Volvo XC90 has been subject to 7 recalls. These recalls address significant safety concerns such as improperly tightened seat belt bolts, software issues affecting emergency calls and seat movement, defective airbag bolts, and front seat belt buckle separation.

Are there any fire risks with the 2017 Volvo XC90?

Yes, there are significant fire risks reported for the 2017 Volvo XC90, with 6 documented fires among the 68 total complaints. Several complaints specifically link these fires to coolant leaks from the engine, indicating a potential systemic issue.

What should I look for when buying a used 2017 Volvo XC90?

When considering a used 2017 Volvo XC90, thoroughly check for any signs of coolant leaks, ensure all 7 recalls have been completed, and inspect the electrical system for proper function, including the instrument cluster and infotainment. Pay close attention to door latch operation and the air conditioning system.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the numerous recalls and concerning pattern of engine-related complaints, including fires, a pre-purchase inspection by a Volvo specialist is highly recommended, ensuring all 7 recalls have been addressed and checking for coolant leaks or electrical system faults.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Volvo Xc90

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Volvo Xc90. The data includes 68 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 7 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 6 fire incidents, 9 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.