This 2021 model shows good reliability, primarily driven by a below-average recall rate for the VOLVO brand.
Key Factor:below-average recall rate
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Safety Alert
Safety Alert: This model has a higher recall frequency (2) than the average VOLVO vehicle (0.8). Owners should prioritize checking these components.
2 recalls for this vehicle0.8 avg. recalls per vehicle (brand)
📋Why This Matters
Brake and steering systems are the foundation of vehicle control. Issues in these areas directly influence insurance risk assessments.
Insurance companies review vehicle reliability data when setting premiums. Models with elevated recall rates often see adjusted pricing.
Focus Area:critical safety systems
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Expert Analysis
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Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
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Primary Risk Area:Various
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Vs Brand: Worse than avg (0.8)
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Summary:
Safety & Reliability Score
82/100
Score Breakdown
Recall Impact-16
Complaint Impact-2.5
Investigation Impact-0
Technical Specifications
Key specifications for the 2021 VOLVO S90
Model Year2021
MakeVOLVO
ModelS90
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle
Safety History Timeline
Jul17
ISSUEFirst Report
Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
✅
No Consumer Complaints Reported
Great news! There are currently no consumer complaints on file with NHTSA for the 2021 VOLVO S90. This is a positive indicator of owner satisfaction.
🛠️ DIY Diagnosis Center
Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).
Primary Risk Areas
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Official Safety Recalls (2)
Campaign: 21V716000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
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Summary
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 S90L, 2020-2021 XC60, and XC90 vehicles. An improperly welded rotor and shaft may separate within the integrated brake system.
Consequence
Separation of the rotor and shaft may cause a reduction in braking assistance and a loss of the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the hydraulic unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 22, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10120.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Campaign: 25V179000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
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Summary
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2020-2021 S90, 2020-2022 S60, V60, XC60, XC90, and 2022 V90 plug-in hybrid vehicles. The high-voltage battery may experience a short circuit within the battery module when the battery is fully charged and the vehicle is parked.
Consequence
A short circuit in a high-voltage battery increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to charge their vehicles until the remedy has been completed. Dealers will inspect and replace the high-voltage battery module as necessary. In addition, dealers will update the software to monitor the battery. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 28, 2025. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10312.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA Investigations
0 investigations
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No active investigations for this vehicle.
Consumer Complaints
0 complaints
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No consumer complaints recorded for this vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any recalls for the 2021 VOLVO S90?
Yes, the 2021 VOLVO S90 has 2 recorded recalls from NHTSA. These recalls cover various components including SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE.
Is the 2021 VOLVO S90 safe to drive?
The 2021 VOLVO S90 has 2 recalls. If you own this vehicle, check with your dealer to ensure all recall repairs have been completed. Most recalls have free remedies available.
Where can I check if my 2021 VOLVO S90 has open recalls?
You can check for open recalls by visiting NHTSA.gov and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by contacting your local VOLVO dealer.
📊Year-over-Year Context
➡️Stable Pattern
Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows stable reliability patterns. No meaningful structural change detected in recall frequency between adjacent model years.
🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions
Based on recall data, these components require verification:
1
Service brakes, hydraulic
Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk
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If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm service brakes, hydraulic recall is complete. Recall repairs are always free.
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If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all service brakes, hydraulic recalls are completed before purchase.
Campaign:21V716000
2
Electrical system
Issue: presents fire risk under certain conditions
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If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm electrical system recall is complete. Recall repairs are always free.
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If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all electrical system recalls are completed before purchase.
Campaign:25V179000
💡Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your VOLVO dealer to verify recall completion status.
🧭What This Means for You
This analysis is particularly important for drivers who navigate steep terrain, tow regularly, or drive in frequent rain or snow.
If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.
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If You Own This Vehicle
Verify all 2 recalls have been completed using your VIN at NHTSA.gov or through your VOLVO dealer.
If any recalls are open, schedule service immediately—recall repairs are always free.
Consider setting up VIN-specific alerts to receive notification of future recalls.
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If You're Buying Used
Request the VIN before purchase and verify recall status at NHTSA.gov.
This model year shows favorable reliability metrics compared to alternatives.