2021 VOLVO XC40

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

4RecallsNHTSA Verified0ComplaintsLimited Data1InvestigationsLimited Data
Expert Verdict
โœ“Good Reliability

The 2021 Volvo XC40 demonstrates a solid reliability profile, bolstered by its clean slate in terms of consumer complaints. The prevalence of recalls, particularly involving the electrical and engine systems, warrants careful scrutiny by owners regarding maintenance.

Key Factor:Strong engineering pedigree

๐Ÿ“‹Why This Matters

The absence of consumer complaints for the 2021 Volvo XC40 is an impressive indicator of manufacturing quality within this segment. In an era where safety and reliability are paramount, a lack of defects reinforces Volvo's commitment to high standards in automotive engineering. This vehicleโ€™s recalls emphasize the importance of vigilant maintenance and awareness among owners as they navigate potential issues related to critical systems like engine and electrical components.

Focus Area:Safety Profile
๐Ÿ“Š

Expert Analysis

  • ๐Ÿ“ˆ
    Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
  • โš ๏ธ
    Primary Risk Area:Various
  • โš–๏ธ
    Vs Brand: Worse than avg (0.8)
    ๐Ÿ“
    Summary: The overall safety trend for the 2021 Volvo XC40 appears favorable given the absence of complaints despite multiple recalls. While this suggests that most owners have not experienced significant issues, the recalls merit attention as they could potentially affect long-term reliability if not addressed promptly by consumers.
Critical Component: Various

Safety & Reliability Score

59/100
Below Average

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-32
Complaint Impact-4
Investigation Impact-5

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2021 VOLVO XC40

Model Year2021
MakeVOLVO
ModelXC40
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Scroll for more โ†’
Jan13
ISSUEFirst Report
Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Dec21
RECALLRecall Issued
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Aug25
RECALLRecall Issued
โœ…

No Consumer Complaints Reported

Great news! There are currently no consumer complaints on file with NHTSA for the 2021 VOLVO XC40. This is a positive indicator of owner satisfaction.

๐Ÿ› ๏ธ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMSEAT BELTSENGINEBACK OVER PREVENTION

๐ŸŽฏRisk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Electrical System

Issue: Potential reset of the Battery Energy Control Module leading to system disconnection.

โœ…

Schedule an immediate inspection at a certified dealer to address any software updates or fixes.

๐Ÿ”

Verify that any outstanding software updates or recall remedies have been completed before finalizing your purchase.

Campaigns:21V06021V06121V062
2

Seat Belts

Issue: Early deactivation of seat belt retractors affecting child restraint security.

โœ…

Ensure compliance with recall remedies regarding seat belt functionality at your next service appointment.

๐Ÿ”

Check service records for completion of related recalls to ensure proper safety compliance prior to purchase.

Campaign:21V060
3

Engine

Issue: 'Loose or missing bolt' issue in securing cross-member bracket potentially affecting engine performance.

โœ…

'Verify with your dealer if repairs have been made as part of any recall campaign.'

๐Ÿ”

'Request documentation confirming repairs regarding engine component recalls.'

Campaign:21V061
๐Ÿ’กVisit NHTSA.gov or contact your VOLVO dealer to verify recall completion status.

Official Safety Recalls (4)

Campaign: 21V109000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY:MANAGEMENT SYSTEM/ENERGY CONTROL MODULE (BMS/BECM):SOFTWARE

Summary

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2022 XC40 Recharge vehicles. The Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) microprocessor may reset and cause the high voltage system to disconnect.

Consequence

A disconnected high voltage system can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Volvo Car will notify owners, and dealers will install a software update, free of charge. The recall began March 30, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10078.

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.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC

Campaign: 21V682000

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

Summary

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 XC40, XC 40 Recharge, V60CC, V90, V90CC, XC90, and 2021-2022 V60, XC60, S60 vehicles. The seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Consequence

An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 13, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10111.

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.

Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC

Campaign: 21V881000

ENGINE

Summary

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2021 XC40 BEV vehicles. A bolt that secures the cross-member bracket for the electrical motor in the engine compartment may be loose or missing.

Consequence

A loose or missing bolt may decrease the structural protection of the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the cross-member bracket and install new bracket bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 16, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R10128.

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.

Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC

Campaign: 25V282000

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Summary

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, C40, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40 and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Consequence

A rearview camera image that does not display reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

The software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2025. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10320.

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.

Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC

NHTSA Investigations

1 investigation

Official NHTSA safety investigations for 2021 XC40.

INV-2021-1000๐ŸŸข Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding XC40 performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 15,022

Consumer Complaints

0 complaints
โœ“

No consumer complaints recorded for this vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

'What common issues should I be aware of with the 2021 Volvo XC40?'

'While there are currently no complaints on file, the vehicle has four recalls addressing critical components such as the electrical system and engine. Owners should stay informed about necessary repairs from their dealership to mitigate potential risks associated with these systems.'

'How does the recall history affect my decision to buy a used 2021 Volvo XC40?'

'Understanding the specific recalls tied to this model can provide insights into potential future problems. Prospective buyers should ensure all recalls have been addressed adequately by checking service records during their evaluation process.'

๐Ÿ“ŠYear-over-Year Context

๐Ÿ“‰Elevated Activity

Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows declining reliability trends, largely due to new electrical system components introduced in this generation. Recall frequency increased 300% versus the 2020 version.

๐ŸงญWhat This Means for You

Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.

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

  • Immediate Action: If any recalls are listed as 'incomplete', contact a certified VOLVO service centerโ€”repairs are performed at no cost to you.
  • Unaddressed recalls pose real-world risks. Prioritize scheduling any pending repairs to maintain vehicle integrity.
  • Proactive tip: Enroll in VOLVO's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
๐Ÿ›’

If You're Buying Used

  • Obtain proof of recall completion for all 4 campaigns before purchase.
  • Account for potential service downtime when calculating your initial ownership budget.
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Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: February 23, 2026.