Used Volvo XC40 2018-present reliability

When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.

It may be an SUV, but forward visibility is never really an issue thanks to large windows and a commanding seating position. However, despite big door mirrors and standard rear parking sensors, the rear pillar can obscure some obstacles, so check the extremities for any scuffs and dents picked up in tight supermarket car parks and urban rat runs. Also, check the alloy wheels for any kerb damage and that the tailgate operates correctly, if it's electric.

Automatic emergency braking (AEB): The AEB system, which is supposed to apply the brakes when the forward collision sensors detect an imminent collision, might not actually do so. A software update is all that is required to sort the issue, and it applies to V60, S90, V90, XC40, XC60 and XC90 models built after 21 January 2019. The fix can be completed by any Volvo dealer, and owners should have been contacted regarding this. However, you can also speak with your local retailer for further information.

Software issue: A problem was found with the vehicle connectivity module (VCM) that sends location information to the emergency services after a collision. It applies to cars constructed between 1 January 2018 and 30 October 2018. Any Volvo dealer should be able to perform a software update to fix the issue for you.

Rear seatbacks: The rear seatbacks might not remain in the upright position, because the lock strikers might be missing on both sides of the bench. The small number of examples built between 20-21 June 2018 that are affected by this recall will need to have these strikers fitted to resolve the issue. Any Volvo dealer will be able to do this for you free of charge.

Brake booster: One of the nuts securing the brake booster (that's part of the vehicle's braking system) could be missing on a small number of examples made between 29 November 2019 and 21 February 2020. Speak to a Volvo dealer to find out if your XC40 is affected by this.

Click here for more information. Contact your local Volvo dealer if you believe your vehicle is involved in a recall.

We consider the Volvo XC40 a reliable car. In the 2024 What Car? Reliability Survey, plug-in hybrid versions of the XC40 came in seventh place out of 48 cars in the family SUV class, while petrol cars came 24th. Even the latter, with its 93.4% reliability rating, is impressive and confidence inspiring.

Meanwhile, Volvo as a manufacturer ranked 13th in the same survey out of 34 brands with a good overall score of 92.8%. That put it above Audi and Mercedes but below Honda, Kia and Lexus.

Used Volvo XC40 reliability: owners' view

As part of our 2023 Reliability Survey, What Car? readers and owners of an XC40 shared their experiences and, overall, the feedback on its reliability has been largely positive but not perfect. Owners have reported a satisfactory level of reliability, mentioning only a few significant mechanical issues. However, there have been minor electronic glitches, particularly with the infotainment system and electronic driver aids. These faults, while not affecting the vehicle's drivability, have caused inconvenience.

The Volvo main dealer network received mixed reviews as well. Some readers praised their dealers for efficient and friendly service, highlighting quick resolution times for reported issues. Conversely, some owners expressed frustration over delays in repair times and a perceived lack of communication from dealerships regarding the status of their vehicle's repair.

This points to a great variance in service quality across the dealer network. Despite these challenges, the consensus among owners is that the Volvo XC40 remains a reliable choice for those seeking a premium compact SUV, with dealer service experiences improving.