*Median odometer reading when the problem happened, where owners gave one. One complaint can name several problem areas.
Electrical system
The check engine light on our Volvo XC90 Plug-in Hybrid came on stating "Hybrid System Failure Service Required". The vehicle would no longer accept a charge. A service appointment was made and the technician found that there was a fault with cell module A. A case was started but we were told the part was on backorder.
Nov 1, 2025Unknown or other1 injury
The chrome trim on the center console, immediately to the right of the gear selector, deteriorates and peels away, leaving razor-sharp edges capable of cutting skin. This appears to be a widespread issue, with numerous owner reports and photographs online dating back to the 2016 Volvo XC90. The same defect is present on my 2021 model, suggesting Volvo has continued using a component prone to this failure for multiple model years. The location is particularly concerning because drivers frequently place their hands near this trim when operating the gear selector and using the center console. Owners have reported cuts and bleeding from the sharp edges, creating a potential risk of sudden…
Oct 3, 2026Seat belts
This is 2021 volvo xc90 purchased new in 2021. A few weeks ago, my wife asked me to look at the middle row seatbelt as it wouldnt buckle. I could see that it was broken. I checked the seatbelt next to it and same thing. Plastic buckle broken in same place. I took it to the dealer where we get serviced and they told me it would cost $900. I told them this should not be my expense as this is a manufacture defect. Car was bought new 5 years ago. I brought the car home and then checked all seatbelts. 4 out 6 (have a third row) all have the same issue! I created a case with Volvo corporate. I was offered a 20% discount on parts only. I told them this was unacceptable and they then closed the…
Aug 22, 2026Electrical system
My 2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge (plug-in hybrid) has been at Volvo Cars Dublin, Dublin CA since June 15, 2026 for a failed high-voltage battery cell module requiring replacement. The replacement part is on national backorder with no estimated availability. The vehicle has been out of service for over 100 days and remains undrivable. A failed high-voltage battery cell module in a plug-in hybrid is a safety concern, and the indefinite nationwide backorder suggests this defect and parts shortage may affect other owners. Volvo corporate (case 07207782) has provided no repair date.
Jun 15, 2026Electrical system
My 2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge (plug-in hybrid) has been at Volvo Cars Dublin, Dublin CA since June 15, 2026 for a failed high-voltage battery cell module requiring replacement. The replacement part is on national backorder with no estimated availability. The vehicle has been out of service for over 100 days and remains undrivable. A failed high-voltage battery cell module in a plug-in hybrid is a safety concern, and the indefinite nationwide backorder suggests this defect and parts shortage may affect other owners. Volvo corporate (case 07207782) has provided no repair date.
Jun 15, 2026Electrical system › Propulsion system › Hybrid management › Power control unit/module (hpcu)
The contact owns a 2021 Volvo XC90. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and depressing the accelerator or the brake pedal, the vehicle hesitated with the check engine warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the electric rear axle drive system had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the failure occurred each time the vehicle was driven. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact to continue driving the vehicle because the vehicle was safe to drive. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Sep 1, 2026 · 60,000 milesChest clip, buckle, harness
I am reporting a serious safety defect involving a Nuna RAVA child safety seat. The harness straps loosened on their own without the harness release button being pressed or otherwise intentionally operated. This occurred while the child was secured in the car seat. This malfunction presents a serious risk to child safety. If the harness loosens during vehicle travel, particularly in a sudden stop or crash, the child may not be properly restrained. In a crash, the child could potentially move out of the appropriate restraint position, be partially or completely ejected from the car seat, or suffer serious injury. The component involved is the harness restraint system, specifically the…
Sep 3, 2026Electrical system
In February 2026, my 2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 (VIN: [XXX]) experienced a hybrid battery cell failure. The failure was diagnosed and confirmed by an authorized Volvo dealership (Volvo of Tacoma) and is covered under the vehicle's manufacturer warranty. However, I have been informed that a replacement part may not be available until December 2026 or later â a delay of ten months or more from the original failure date. Volvo has advised me that attempting to charge the vehicle in its current state carries a risk of fire. As a result, I am unable to charge the hybrid system and have had to operate the vehicle on gasoline alone, with fuel costs increasing approximately 3.5x per month.…
Feb 2, 2026
Owner complaints are submitted to NHTSA by the public and are not verified. Shown as filed (NHTSA removes personal details); long reports are shortened.
