2022 Volvo Xc90 Safety Report

2022 Volvo XC90: Low Complaint Volume, but Critical Recalls for Propulsion Loss, Fire Risk, and Steering Issues

27Complaints
4Recalls
65/100Reliability Score
1Fire Reports
Most reported components: Electrical System (7)Unknown Or Other (2)Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (2)Fuel/Propulsion System (2)Electrical System,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (2)Electrical System,Unknown Or Other,Fuel/Propulsion System (1)Air Bags (1)Engine And Engine Cooling (1)Power Train,Electrical System,Engine (1)Service Brakes (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2022 Volvo Xc90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 presents a mixed safety picture, with a relatively low number of total complaints (27) but several critical recalls and concerning patterns in propulsion system failures. While NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for this specific model year, the recalls address fundamental safety components. Four recalls have been issued, covering potential high-voltage battery short circuits increasing fire risk, improperly tightened second-row seat belt bolts, steering gear assembly issues that could lead to steering wheel lock-up, and an electronic control module (ECM) software error that could cause loss of drive power. The single reported fire incident in the complaint data aligns with the high-voltage battery recall's stated consequence. Common complaint patterns revolve heavily around the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (7 complaints) and 'ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM' (multiple complaints, including 2 for 'ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM' and 2 for 'FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM'). Several complaints describe the vehicle entering 'turtle mode,' losing drive power, or experiencing complete engine shutdown while driving, often on highways, which directly correlates with the ECM software error recall. Other electrical issues include infotainment system blackouts, frozen screens, and issues with charging systems. The 'SEAT BELTS' and 'STEERING' recalls also address critical safety components, though specific complaints directly matching these recall issues are less prominent in the provided data. Overall, while the total complaint volume is low, the nature of the complaints and recalls points to significant potential safety hazards, particularly concerning sudden loss of propulsion and fire risk. The lack of NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2022 model year means a complete picture of crashworthiness cannot be formed from this data. Prospective buyers should be aware of these documented issues and ensure all recall remedies have been performed.

Reliability Score

The 2022 Volvo Xc90 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 2022 Volvo Xc90

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2022 Volvo Xc90:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Loss Of Drive Power / 'Turtle Mode'
Multiple complaints describe the vehicle suddenly losing power, entering 'turtle mode,' or shutting down while driving, often on highways. This is linked to an ECM software error recall (22V-179).
High Common unknown miles
High-Voltage Battery Short Circuit / Fire Risk
A recall (22V-179) addresses a potential short circuit in the high-voltage battery, increasing the risk of fire. One fire incident is reported in the complaints.
High Occasional unknown miles
Steering Wheel Lock-Up
A recall (22V-179) indicates that double screws in the steering gear assembly could cause the steering wheel to lock up, increasing crash risk.
High Rare unknown miles
Infotainment System Malfunctions
Complaints include the infotainment screen freezing, glitching, or the entire system (including climate) shutting off and going black while driving.
Medium Occasional unknown miles
Seat Belt Buckle/Anchor Improper Tightening
A recall (22V-179) states that second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly, increasing injury risk in a crash.
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 2022 Volvo Xc90:

Electrical System 25% of complaints

The most reported component, with 7 complaints, covering issues like infotainment system failures, frozen screens, and charging system problems.

Engine, Fuel/Propulsion System 14% of complaints

Multiple complaints (4 total across 'ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM' and 'FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM') describe sudden loss of power, 'turtle mode,' and engine shutdowns, directly related to a recall.

Unknown Or Other 7% of complaints

Two complaints categorized as 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' indicate issues not fitting standard categories, such as sunroof leaks affecting electronics.

Air Bags 3% of complaints

One complaint regarding an 'SRS airbag, service urgent' warning that required multiple dealer visits.

Service Brakes 3% of complaints

One complaint about a loud knocking noise when backing up in cold weather, potentially related to auto-hold brakes.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Volvo Xc90

Is the 2022 Volvo XC90 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2022 Volvo XC90 has a low number of total complaints (27) but has been subject to 4 significant recalls addressing critical safety concerns such as potential loss of drive power, fire risk from the high-voltage battery, steering wheel lock-up, and improperly tightened seat belts. While no NHTSA crash test ratings are available for this specific model year, the recalls highlight serious potential hazards.

What are common problems with the 2022 Volvo XC90?

The most reported issues for the 2022 Volvo XC90 are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7 complaints), including infotainment malfunctions and frozen screens. ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM issues (4 complaints) are also common, with multiple reports of sudden loss of drive power or 'turtle mode' while driving, directly linked to a recall.

Are there any recalls for the 2022 Volvo XC90?

Yes, the 2022 Volvo XC90 has 4 recalls. These include issues with the high-voltage battery (fire risk), improperly tightened second-row seat belt bolts, steering gear assembly (potential for steering wheel lock-up), and an electronic control module (ECM) software error that can cause loss of drive power.

Does the 2022 Volvo XC90 have fire risks?

Yes, there is a known fire risk. A recall (22V-179) for certain 2020-2022 Volvo plug-in hybrid vehicles, including the XC90, addresses a potential short circuit within the high-voltage battery that increases the risk of fire. One fire incident is reported in the complaint data for this model year.

What should I do if my 2022 Volvo XC90 loses power while driving?

If your 2022 Volvo XC90 loses power or enters 'turtle mode' while driving, it is likely related to the ECM software error recall (22V-179). You should safely pull over, contact Volvo customer service or your dealership immediately, and ensure the recall remedy has been performed on your vehicle.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the critical recalls concerning propulsion loss, fire risk, and steering, ensure all recall remedies have been completed by a Volvo dealership before purchasing a 2022 XC90, and be aware of potential electrical and propulsion system issues.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2022 Volvo Xc90

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2022 Volvo Xc90. The data includes 27 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 fire incidents, 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.