2024 Volvo Xc90 Safety Report

The 2024 Volvo XC90, despite Volvo's reputation for safety, presents a mixed safety picture based on early NHTSA data. While official NHTSA crash test ratings are not yet available (all listed as N/A), the vehicle has accumulated 26 complaints, including 3 crashes and 1 injury, which is notable for a relatively new model year. A significant concern is the prevalence of electrical system issues, accounting for 4 complaints, often leading to critical malfunctions like infotainment screen blackouts, instrument cluster failures, and loss of safety alerts (e.g., turn signals, blind spot indicators, collision warnings). These electrical problems can severely impair driver awareness and vehicle control, as evidenced by complaints describing 'Critical Error - Pull Over When Safe' messages and unexpected engine shutdowns. Recall history for the 2024 XC90 includes three significant campaigns. Two recalls (25V282000 and 25V282000) address 'BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE' issues, where the rearview camera image may not display, increasing crash risk. This aligns with several complaints about inoperable or frozen rearview cameras. The third recall (24V099000) concerns 'SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS' for second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts that may not be properly tightened, posing an increased risk of injury during a crash. This recall affects a broad range of XC90 model years (2015-2024), indicating a potentially long-standing manufacturing concern. Beyond recalls, common complaint patterns include power train issues (3 complaints), with reports of unintended acceleration and the 'P' (park) button not reliably engaging park, leading to unexpected vehicle movement. Back over prevention issues, beyond the recall, also appear in complaints, with reports of audible warnings not activating. The lack of official crash test ratings makes a full assessment of crashworthiness difficult, but the high number of electrical and software-related complaints, coupled with critical safety recalls, suggests potential reliability and safety system integrity concerns that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Our recommendation: Given the early prevalence of electrical system complaints, rearview camera recalls, and park engagement issues, prospective buyers should exercise caution and thoroughly test all electronic systems and the park function during a test drive. Ensure all recall remedies have been performed before purchase.