In the European service world, Volvo engine failures land on our lifts with regularity. 287 complaints across 27 year-model entries (2005–2016) is consistent with what we move in parts orders. The pattern repeats across model years, which usually points to a shared component supplier rather than a single bad production batch. 6 fire reports on the federal record — not common in this category but documented and worth weight. Across the 133 complaints reporting odometer mileage, the median failure lands at about 84,750 miles. Independent-shop repair on this category runs around $3,100; dealer pricing tends to run thirty to forty percent higher on European brands. Budget for a real pre-purchase inspection — compression and leakdown test, not just a code scan. Both are cheap and tell you what is left in the engine.
Volvo engine problems
287 owner complaints filed with NHTSA against Volvo vehicles for engine issues. 1 active recall campaign. See engine across all makes →
Worst-affected Volvo model-years for engine Top 25 by complaint volume
Active recalls — Volvo engine 12 on file
On certain trucks equipped with d12d engines, the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler inlet pipes or the pipes that connect the EGR valves to the cooler may crack or break
If the pipes or the cooler inlet pipes fail and are left untreated, the air cleaner and inner fender may be subject to hot exhaust gases, which could lead to a fire.
Volvo Trucks North America (Volvo) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Volvo VNL trucks equipped with Cummins ISX15 diesel engines
If the fuel line bursts, fuel may leak onto the road resulting in a roadway hazard for other motorists. The engine may also stall without warning, resulting in the vehicle's inability to restart, increasing the risk of a crash.
Volvo Trucks North America (Volvo) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 VNL trucks, and 2013-2014 VNM trucks equipped with certain Cummins Westport Model ISL G and ISX12 G engines
The improper operation of the sensor could induce elevated exhaust temperatures or flames from the exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire or burn injury to a person near the exhaust pipe.
On certain trucks, an incorrect software parameter was loaded which resulted in the diesel particulate filter (DPF) 'inhibit' function being disabled
If the driver believes that regeneration has been stopped when it has not, it could result in a fire.
Volvo Cars of North America, LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 S60 vehicles manufactured June 22, 2010, through May 14, 2012, and equipped with 5-cylinder B5254T5 (VIN code 62) engines
Without being warned of a low oil pressure situation, the driver may continue to drive the vehicle until it stalls, which increases the risk of a crash.
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2022-2023 S60, V60, S90L, XC60, and XC90 vehicles
The vehicle may lose drive power as the high voltage battery is depleted, increasing the risk of a crash.
Volvo is recalling certain model year 2011, s80, s60, xc70 and xc60 vehicles
Sudden engine stall could occur increasing the risk of a crash.
Fontaine Modification (Fontaine) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Volvo VAH vehicles modified with upward facing exhaust diffusers for use as auto-haulers
Excessive heat could result in a fire.
Volvo Trucks North America (Volvo Trucks) is recalling certain 2022-2025 Volvo VN and 2025 New VN trucks
A detached idler gear can damage the engine, resulting in a stall and increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Volvo Cars of N
If the coolant leak goes unnoticed, coolant may accumulate in the catalytic converter heat shield insulation and catch fire when the vehicle is stationary, increasing the risk of injury.
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2021 XC40 BEV vehicles
A loose or missing bolt may decrease the structural protection of the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Volvo is recalling 17,614 my 2008-2009 s80, v70, and xc70 vehicles
This situation may result in loss of cooling system function and engine failure. The driver may not have sufficient time to react to the warning light(s) or the text message in the instrument panel, increasing the risk of a crash.
Common questions
How many Volvo engine complaints are on file with NHTSA?
287 complaints across 27 model-year entries from 2005 to 2016. 1 active recall campaigns cover engine issues across the Volvo lineup.
Which Volvo model has the most engine complaints?
The 2005 Volvo XC90 leads with 58 complaints in this category. Next: 2012 S60 (45) and 2013 S60 (29).
What does it cost to fix Volvo engine problems?
Independent shops average $3,100 for engine repairs across the Volvo lineup. Dealer pricing tends to run twenty to forty percent higher. Specific cost depends on the failure mode and parts availability.
Are there Volvo engine recalls?
Yes — 12 active recall campaigns cover engine on Volvo vehicles. Recall fixes are free regardless of mileage or warranty status. The list below shows current campaigns with their NHTSA numbers.