2020 Volvo XC40
Only 12 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 12 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 0 |
| 2018 | 0 |
| 2019 | 30 |
| 2020 | 12 |
| 2021 | 51 |
| 2022 | 37 |
| 2023 | 44 |
| 2024 | 28 |
| 2025 | 11 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 12 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
4 of 12 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing software.
Show complaint excerpts
The cooling system cracked, malfunctioned and caused a domino effect of multiple repair issues costing at least $5,200. My car is currently at a Volvo dealer. My Safety: The possibility of the hot engine and hot wires could have resulted in a fire.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260819
Also filed under POWER TRAIN and ENGINE
During night rainstorm, front and rear wipers, turn signals and high beams all failed. This was the result of a design defect that allows water from panoramic moonroof to drain into the floor where it compromises electrical connections and modules.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240409
Also filed under EXTERIOR LIGHTING and VISIBILITY/WIPER
3 of 12 total reports mention: service brakes.
3 of 12 total reports mention: power train.
3 of 12 total reports mention: engine.
3 of 12 total reports mention: forward collision avoidance, most commonly citing automatic emergency braking and warnings.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Volvo Cars USA LLC (Volvo Cars) is recalling certain 2019-2020 S60, V60, V60 Cross Country, S90L, V90, V90 Cross Country, XC40, XC60, and XC90 vehicles.
Remedy: Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will update the Active Safety Domain Master (ASDM) software, free of charge. The recall began April 9, 2020. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552.
Campaign 20V144000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2020 Volvo XC40 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 20V144000 (forward collision avoidance) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2020 Volvo XC40 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Volvo XC40?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2020 Volvo XC40 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.