2023 Volvo Xc90 Safety Report
2023 Volvo XC90: Low complaints, but multiple critical safety recalls for electrical, brake, and rearview camera systems.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2023 Volvo Xc90
Reliability Score
The 2023 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 2023 Volvo Xc90
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2023 Volvo Xc90:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rearview Camera Malfunction Multiple complaints and two recalls (23V-282, 23V-282) indicate the rearview camera may not display, increasing crash risk. Several owners report recall fixes were unsuccessful. |
High | Common | new-unknown miles |
| Electrical System/Infotainment Glitches Complaints describe the entire screen blacking out, loss of sound (signals, radio, warnings), and general infotainment malfunction, sometimes requiring manual reset. |
Medium | Common | new-unknown miles |
| Brake System Errors/Loss Of Function A recall (23V-282) addresses a diagnostic error in the Brake Control Module 2 (BCM2) that may cause loss of Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Complaints also mention 'brake failure' warnings and non-responsive brakes. |
High | Occasional | new-unknown miles |
| Overly Sensitive Automatic Reverse Braking The automatic reverse braking feature is reported as too sensitive, causing sudden, jarring stops without warning, which can be disorienting and potentially lead to minor incidents. |
Medium | Occasional | new-unknown miles |
| Engine Performance Issues/Loss Of Drive Power A recall (23V-282) addresses an ECM software error that may prevent the combustion engine from starting, leading to loss of drive power. Complaints mention 'reduced engine performance' and 'turtle mode'. |
High | Occasional | new-unknown miles |
| Seat Belt Anchor Bolt Issue A recall (23V-282) indicates second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly, increasing injury risk in a crash. |
High | Rare | new-unknown miles |
| Unintended Door Opening One complaint describes the driver's side door opening unexpectedly while driving at 15 mph, with no warning or alarms. |
High | Rare | new-unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2023 Volvo Xc90:
Frequent issues with infotainment blackouts, loss of sound, and general software glitches, including false e-call system warnings (recall 23V-282).
Predominantly related to rearview camera malfunctions, with multiple complaints of the camera not displaying and two recalls (23V-282, 23V-282) issued for this issue.
Complaints about brake failure warnings, non-responsive brakes, and an overly sensitive automatic reverse braking feature. A recall (23V-282) addresses a diagnostic error in the Brake Control Module 2.
Issues reported include the trunk opening unexpectedly and the driver's side door opening while driving.
Complaints of 'reduced engine performance' and 'turtle mode' due to software issues, aligning with a recall (23V-282) for an ECM software error that can prevent engine starting.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Volvo Xc90
Is the 2023 Volvo XC90 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2023 Volvo XC90 has a low number of overall complaints (38) but has been subject to 6 safety recalls, addressing critical components like the rearview camera, brake system, seat belts, and engine control. While no NHTSA crash test ratings are available yet, the recalls indicate potential safety risks that Volvo is actively addressing. Two injuries have been reported in the complaint data.
What are common problems with the 2023 Volvo XC90?
The most reported issues for the 2023 Volvo XC90 are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (23.7% of complaints), primarily infotainment glitches and false e-call warnings, and BACK OVER PREVENTION (21.1%), specifically rearview camera malfunctions. Other notable problems include SERVICE BRAKES (7.9%) with reports of brake failure and overly sensitive automatic reverse braking, and ENGINE issues (5.3%) related to performance and starting.
Are there any recalls for the 2023 Volvo XC90?
Yes, the 2023 Volvo XC90 has 6 active recalls. These include issues with the rearview camera software (two separate recalls), improperly tightened second-row seat belt anchor bolts, a diagnostic error for the emergency call system, a diagnostic error in the Brake Control Module 2, and an engine control module software error that could lead to loss of drive power.
How does the 2023 Volvo XC90 perform in crash tests?
NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2023 Volvo XC90 (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) are currently listed as 'N/A' (Not Available). Therefore, its crash test performance cannot be assessed based on NHTSA data at this time.
What should I know about the 2023 Volvo XC90's driver assistance features?
Complaints indicate some driver assistance features, particularly the automatic reverse braking and blind spot indicators, can be overly sensitive or malfunction. One complaint noted the automatic collision avoidance system intervened unexpectedly, and another described the automatic reverse braking as 'headache-inducing, jarring, sudden extreme braking without any warning'.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the numerous recalls addressing critical safety components and recurring electrical/camera issues, potential buyers should ensure all recall remedies have been performed and thoroughly test all infotainment and driver assistance systems during a test drive.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2023 Volvo Xc90
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2023 Volvo Xc90. The data includes 38 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 6 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 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.