2021 Volvo XC90 Problems: 3 Known Issues
2021 model year · 876+ owner reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 876+ owner reports, the 2021 Volvo XC90 has 3 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are 2021 XC90 Front Seat Belt Automatic Locking Retractor Recall (21V682000) and XC90 Recharge T8 High-Voltage Battery Short Circuit and Fire Risk (Recall 25V179000). The most commonly reported issue is Sensus Infotainment System Issues with 876 owner reports. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 3 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls11 recalls
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2022-2023 S60, V60, S90L, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. An electronic control module (ECM) software error may prevent the combustion engine from starting, causing a loss of drive power.
SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2015-2024 XC90 vehicles. The second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly.
STEERING
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2019-2022 V60CC, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. During steering gear assembly, double screws may have been assembled on top of each other, which can cause a screw to fall into the gearbox housing.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2019-2020 V90, XC60, S60, V60, V60CC, S90, V90CC, S90L, and XC90 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump can blow a fuse and fail.
+ 6 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Volvo XC90 problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 876+ owner reports, the 2021 Volvo XC90 has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 2021 XC90 Front Seat Belt Automatic Locking Retractor Recall (21V682000), XC90 Recharge T8 High-Voltage Battery Short Circuit and Fire Risk (Recall 25V179000), Sensus Infotainment System Issues. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Volvo XC90 reliable?
The 2021 Volvo XC90 has 3 known issues documented across 876+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 2021 XC90 Front Seat Belt Automatic Locking Retractor Recall (21V682000) and XC90 Recharge T8 High-Voltage Battery Short Circuit and Fire Risk (Recall 25V179000). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Volvo XC90 problems?
Repair costs for known Volvo XC90 issues range from $0 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2021 Volvo XC90 2021 XC90 Front Seat Belt Automatic Locking Retractor Recall (21V682000)?
Volvo Car USA recalled 2021 XC90 vehicles because the seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early. In a three-row family SUV this matters more than most: the seat belt is a common way to install a child restraint, especially in seating positions where lower anchor… Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2022 Volvo XC90 XC90 Recharge T8 High-Voltage Battery Short Circuit and Fire Risk (Recall 25V179000)?
Volvo Car USA recalled 2020-2022 XC90 plug-in hybrid SUVs because the high-voltage battery can short circuit within a battery module while the vehicle sits parked with a fully charged pack. NHTSA files the defect under Electrical System: Software and states the consequence as an… Severity: high.
What is the 2016-2022 Volvo XC90 Sensus Infotainment System Issues?
The Sensus touchscreen infotainment system can experience freezing, rebooting, and unresponsive touchscreen. Climate control and many vehicle functions are controlled through this screen, making issues particularly frustrating. Software updates have improved stability. Repairs typically run $0-$3,000. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.