Common Volvo XC60 (08-) problems

The Volvo XC60 was launched in 2008 as the car maker attempted to capture a share of the burgeoning market for compact SUVs.

It's available with two 2.0-litre diesels the D4 and D5 a 2.5-litre D5 diesel, and 2.0-litre T5 and 3.2-litre T6 petrols.

An automatic gearbox could be chosen with every engine in the range the T5 and T6 petrols came with an 'auto box as standard and four-wheel-drive was available across the range.

However, despite its popularity in the UK, theres a surprisingly long list of common faults to look out for when buying a used example.

Common Volvo XC60 problems

Volvo XC60 towing eye problem
Some owners have reported that the front bumper energy absorber may partially cover the aperture through which the towing eye is fixed. This means it's not possible to fit the towing eye following the removal of the cover.

Volvo XC60 cooling fan problem
There have been problems with engine cooling fan. A software malfunction on the engine fan control module means air-conditioning performance may be reduced and the coolant temperature may increase. In extreme cases, the engine could fail.

Volvo XC60 fuel pump problem
Some owners have reported problems with their XC60s fuel pump. The pumps electronic module might not operate as intended, which could cause the engine to stall.

Volvo XC60 seatbelt problem
Some cars have had problems with their seatbelts. Under certain side-impact scenarios, its possible that the side panel on the drivers seat might contact the seatbelt release button and cause the belt to detach.

Volvo XC60 fuel leak problem
There have been issues with fuel leaks on some models. It has been identified that the fuel rail beneath the vehicle that protects the fuel line might not be properly attached, thereby exposing the fuel lines to possible damage.

Volvo XC60 power steering problem
A number of XC60s have been known to have power steering issues. The joint between the power steering high-pressure line and the steering gear might not have been assembled correctly. This could result in fluid leaking and a sudden loss of powered assistance. Fluid could also get into the engine and cause a fire.

Volvo XC60 gearbox problem
Gearboxes on some XC60s have been problematic. A section of the shift mechanism can work loose and cause the mechanism to become jammed.

Volvo XC60 engine seizure problem
A spring clamp on the radiator hose connecting it to the water inlet pipe might be insecure. If it's not rectified, the engine could lose coolant, overheat and seize.

Volvo XC60 drivers airbag problem
Some XC60s have potential airbag problems. An electrical short circuit within a connector could result in the illumination of the 'airbag system service required message. Should this occur, the drivers airbag would not deploy as intended in a collision.

Volvo XC60 curtain airbag problem
Some XC60 models have issues with their curtain airbags. The inflatable curtain might have been fitted incorrectly, which could prevent it from deploying as intended.

Volvo XC60 seat problem
Some XC60s have issues with their seats. Its possible that the front powered driver and passenger seats might not be fitted with the front stop lug. The lug restricts the movement of the seats, and if not fitted, could mean the seat is positioned too far forward or too far back. This could increase the chance of injury in a collision.

Volvo XC60 belt tensioner problem
A number of XC60s built between January 2009 and December 2012 have had issues with their auxiliary belt tensioners. The tensioner might fail and cause a loss of power steering assistance and drive.

Most of these problems should have been fixed for free by Volvo, but should you come across anything, always bring it to the attention of the seller.

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By Rory White