Volvo's best-selling model worldwide, the second-generation XC60 combines Scandinavian design with strong safety credentials. The B5 replaced the T5 from 2021, adding a 48V mild hybrid system for smoother stop-start and modest efficiency gains. Built on the SPA platform shared with the XC90, V60, and S60, it uses an Aisin 8-speed automatic and standard AWD in most European markets.
Strong safety record and resale value
Refined drivetrain, quiet cabin
Infotainment software instability
Sunroof drains prone to clogging
Buy if: You want a premium mid-size SUV with excellent safety and can budget for Volvo-level service costs.
Avoid if: You need rock-solid infotainment reliability or plan to skip regular sunroof drain maintenance.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
Common Problems
Screen freezes, random reboots, and system crashes affect both Sensus and Google-based systems · more· less
Pre-2022 XC60s use the Sensus infotainment system which suffers from touchscreen freezing, unresponsive controls, and system reboots. Post-2022 models switched to Google Android Automotive OS, which introduced new problems: the system was described by early owners as 'absolutely not finished,' with 80% of cold starts requiring a 45-second reboot before backup cameras, climate control, and audio became available. One over-the-air update left multiple owners stranded when cars entered anti-theft mode overnight. Most issues are resolved with free software updates at the dealer, but chronic hardware failures requiring center display module replacement cost around €1,500-2,000. Soft reset: press and hold Home button for 20-30 seconds.
Water leaks through shark fin antenna seal, damaging the telematics module · more· less
The TCAM (Telematics and Connectivity Antenna Module) housed in the roof-mounted shark fin antenna controls LTE, GPS, WiFi, Bluetooth, and key fob communication. On 2021-2022 models, a degraded seal between the antenna cover and the roof allows moisture to enter, causing the module to fail. Symptoms range from intermittent connectivity loss to complete inability to start or lock the car. Volvo issued Service Campaign A10140 covering antenna cover replacement for affected model years. TCAM replacement typically costs €500-1,200 including parts and programming. Verify the service campaign has been completed on any 2021-2022 model.
Drain tubes clog with debris, causing water to leak into the cabin and damage electronics · more· less
This is a well-documented SPA platform issue. The panoramic sunroof drain system has three weak points: the rubber pass-through valve at the drain hose end can split, the plastic hose connecting the sunroof to the valve can shrink and detach, and the drain channels clog with leaves and debris. When water cannot drain properly, it seeps into the floor area where electronic modules are located. In documented cases, water damage to floor-mounted wiring harnesses has resulted in repair bills exceeding €3,000. Preventive maintenance is straightforward: clear the drain channels annually using compressed air with the sunroof open. Inspect the headliner and floor carpets for moisture during any pre-purchase inspection.
Battery drains within 2-3 weeks if car sits idle, multiple electrical systems draw constant power · more· less
The XC60 draws significant standby current from the 12V battery through systems including the proximity key sensor, TCAM module, and various control units. Owners report the battery going flat after 2-3 weeks of non-use, with 'Start/Stop battery service required' or '12V Battery critical charging fault' warnings appearing as early as two years into ownership. The problem is compounded by the mild hybrid system's 48V battery, which does not prevent 12V drain. Contributing factors include a small battery in the shark fin antenna and faulty passenger window control units drawing excess current. A replacement AGM battery costs €200-350. For cars not driven daily, a trickle charger (CTEK MXS 5.0 recommended) is essential.
Anti-corrosive residue in compressor valve causes fuse to blow, system stops functioning · more· less
XC60 models equipped with the optional Four-C active chassis (rear air suspension) can experience compressor failure. Volvo identified that a valve inside the compressor may contain residue from an anti-corrosive agent, which causes the fuse to blow and the suspension service warning to appear. Volvo extended warranty coverage for the rear air suspension compressor to 7 years unlimited mileage from the original service date for 2018-2020 models. Aftermarket compressors from suppliers like Arnott are available for approximately €400-500, with labor adding €200-400. Not all XC60s have air suspension - base models use conventional coil springs and are not affected.
Software bug sets cooling flow to zero, preventing the combustion engine from starting · more· less
Volvo recalled certain 2022-2023 XC60 models (recall R10198) because an ECM software error incorrectly sets the cooling flow to zero when maximum cooling is needed. This causes the Inverter Generator Module to set available torque to zero, preventing the engine from starting. The fix is a free ECM software update at any Volvo dealer. While the repair itself costs nothing, being stranded is inconvenient. Verify with VIN that this recall has been completed on any 2022-2023 model. Budget €100-200 for a tow if the issue occurs before the recall is completed.
Solid powertrain, but electrical and software issues need attention
The B5 engine itself is mechanically sound with no known catastrophic defects affecting the 2021+ production run. The piston ring oil consumption issue that plagued earlier VEA engines was resolved before the B5 designation was introduced. Main ownership concerns center on software stability (infotainment crashes), electrical gremlins (12V battery drain, TCAM failure), and the SPA platform's sunroof drain design. Cars with air suspension add another potential failure point. Regular maintenance of drain tubes and keeping software up to date significantly reduces the likelihood of expensive repairs.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
ECM software error preventing engine start (2022-2023, recall R10198)
Verify completed - free software update
Steering gear double-screw assembly defect (2019-2022)
Verify completed - steering gear replacement
AEB system failure to engage (2019-2020, recall R29998)
Verify completed - ASDM software update
Rearview camera image not displaying (2022-2025)
Verify completed - software or OTA update
Fuel pump fuse failure causing stall (2019-2020, recall R10100)
Verify completed - fuse replacement
TCAM antenna cover moisture ingress (2021-2022, campaign A10140)
Verify completed - antenna cover replacement
The XC60 Mk2 has a significant number of recalls across model years. Contact a Volvo dealer with the VIN to verify all applicable recalls and service campaigns have been completed. The ECM software recall (2022-2023) and steering gear recall (2019-2022) are particularly important.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years)
Expired on 2023 and older models
Air suspension compressor extended warranty
7 years / unlimited km (2018-2020 models only)
Volvo Selekt extended warranty
Available through Volvo dealers for certified pre-owned vehicles
Volvo offers a 2-year factory warranty in Europe with no km limit. Most used B5 models (2021-2022) are now outside factory warranty. The air suspension compressor extended warranty applies only to 2018-2020 models. Volvo Selekt certified pre-owned vehicles may include additional warranty coverage - verify terms with the selling dealer.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.