The Swedish brand is known to make one of the safest cars out there and holds an array of safety tech and features that people really prefer. The Volvo XC60 is their compact SUV that leans towards the premium segment while it offers a user-friendly layout and very reliable hardware. Volvo managed to sell just over 20,000 units of the car and for that reason, the complaints on this car have stayed to a low 36 in total while it was recalled 3 times. The users mostly reported facing an electrical cut-off due to a failed alternator. The car also reported carrying a few other complaints that are detailed down below and the major contenders against Volvo are the Acura RDX, the Audi Q5, and the BMW X3.
User complaints and problems
Electrical Problems
- Alternator – The user was driving when they suddenly noticed the steering felt stiff, forcing them to stop the car. The dealers were contacted and they git the car towed to the shop, where it was diagnosed that the alternator had failed. The part was replaced and the car functioned normally.
Mechanical Problems
- Engine – It was said that the users received a check engine warning light very open while driving disturbing the drive. Upon checking, the engine was stated to have low oil but the users stated to have filled oil in recent times. The mechanic decided to conduct an oil consumption test and it was confirmed that the engine indeed burnt way too much oil and that it was normal for this model as there were no leaks detected.
- Powertrain – The contact stated that they were parking the car when they noticed the engine revving high on its own, after which the car lunged forward and crashed into a barricade. The gear was shifted to reverse in order to get the vehicle out of the way but then the condition repeated again and sent the vehicle shooting in reverse, crashing into a car that was parked. The user was shocked and placed the gear n park and turned the ignition off completely. This was diagnosed and said to be a case of vehicle malfunction. The powertrain control module was reprogrammed and updated.
Interior Problems
- Fuel gauge – The contact stated that the fuel gauge stayed low even after filling the gas tank completely. This raised concern as it could lead the driver into thinking there is fuel while the gas tank is actually empty and leave them stranded. The fuel gauge sensor was inspected and reprogrammed by the dealer and the gauge has been working as expected ever since.
- Steering – The steering wheel featured a metal piece on the bottom and this was said to come loose, making it intervene while turning the car. Users got their fingers cut from this metal piece. The dealers had to replace the part and also stated it was a common issue.
- Windshield – There was a leak on the windshield seals that let water drip through and fall straight on the dash area. This even caused certain electronics to malfunction and the windshield seals had to be reinforced.
2012 Volvo XC60 recalls
|
S. No. |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
30th June 2020 |
20V378000 |
Seatbelt may not restrain the occupant. |
The flexible steel cable connecting the seatbelt to the outboard seating positions may fatigue over time, causing the belt to not restrain the occupant in the event of a crash. |
Dealers will replace the seatbelt anchor cable. |
|
2. |
14th March 2012 |
12V101000 |
Excessive underbody coating. |
The underbody coating may penetrate the fuel lines and cause fuel leakage, increasing the risk of fire. |
Excessive coating will be removed. |
|
3. |
28th February 2012 |
12V075000 |
Seat wiring harness. |
If the wiring harness is not connected properly to the seat frames. This may disconnect the airbag module and cause it to be inoperative during a crash. |
The seat wiring harness will be secured. |
Should you buy the 2012 Volvo XC60?
The 2012 Volvo XC60 is a car that will make you feel secure and the quality of materials used in the construction of this car makes it feel very premium and upscale. The XC60 has a low set of complaints due to its limited sales volume but that doesn’t mean the car isnt reliable. The Volvo offers a great value and is also priced lower compared to the offerings from BMW and Audi. We do however suggest getting the windshield inspected for any leaks and also getting the fuel gauge checked to see if the readings are accurate. The 2012 Volvo XC60 is a great choice if you’re looking for a premium SUV that would consume considerably less money to maintain.
