repaired · 2026 Q3
Back over prevention: software
NewRisk. A rearview camera image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
2021 Volvo XC40Problems, recalls & complaints
NHTSA has logged 52 owner complaints about the 2021 Volvo XC40, most often about the electrical system. It is covered by 5 safety recalls, and for recall 21V-881 the manufacturer reports only 75% of affected cars repaired.
Source: NHTSA complaints, recalls, investigations and manufacturer recall reports, through September 15, 2026. Updated daily. Photo: Vauxford, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Complaints by system
Where the 2021 Volvo XC40 has problems
52 complaints grouped by the system owners reported.
14Electrical system
10Fuel/propulsion system1 crash/fire/injury
8Back over prevention1 crash/fire/injury
6Forward collision avoidance1 crash/fire/injury
5Power train1 crash/fire/injury
5Vehicle speed control2 crash/fire/injury
5Visibility/wiper
4Service brakes
3Lane departure
106 other systems
| System | Complaints | Crash, fire or injury |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical system | 14 | 0 |
| Fuel/propulsion system | 10 | 1 |
| Back over prevention | 8 | 1 |
| Forward collision avoidance | 6 | 1 |
| Power train | 5 | 1 |
| Vehicle speed control | 5 | 2 |
| Visibility/wiper | 5 | 0 |
| Service brakes | 4 | 1 |
| Lane departure | 3 | 0 |
| 6 other systems | 10 | 0 |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.
5 recalls
2021 Volvo XC40 recalls and how many were fixed
Each ring shows the share of affected cars repaired, from the manufacturer’s latest quarterly report to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
repaired · 2026 Q3
Back over prevention: software
Risk. 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.
repaired · 2023 Q3
Engine
Risk. A loose or missing bolt may decrease the structural protection of the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
repaired · 2023 Q3
Seat belts
Risk. An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Show 1 more recall
repaired · 2022 Q1
Management system/energy control module (bms/becm): software
Risk. A disconnected high voltage system can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Recalls apply to specific cars. To see whether a recall is still open on yours, enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or with Volvo.
Best & worst years
2021 vs. every other XC40 year
Bars show complaints per model year. Colors show the CarFlaw verdict: complaints weighted for crashes, fires and injuries, adjusted for years on the road and compared with the XC40 median. How we score
'17'18'19'20'21'22'23'24'25
- Avoid
- Caution
- Solid
- Best
- Not rated
In owners' words
What XC40 owners report
Recent electrical system complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.
I own a 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge (pure electric). At 49,030 miles, while slowly driving in a parking lot, the vehicle suddenly began shuddering and jerking as if driving over rumble strips. A warning message appeared stating “Propulsion System Failure” and indicated the vehicle would reduce speed.…
Back up camera consistently does not turn off. Audio system, including turning signals and reverse alert do not activate. This continues to be a safety risk despite numerous software updates that have allegedly fixed the issues.
1. OBC failure. Stranded unable to charge. Situational could be dangerous. 2. Rt side mirror defaults to extreme angle after locking car evert time. Dealership could not troubleshoot solution.
Own a 2021 XC40?
Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.