According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2017 Volvo XC60 has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Sunroof and Cowl Drain Blockage Causing Cabin Water Intrusion and Secondary Electrical Faults ($200-$5,000 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2010-2019 Volvo XC60, water leaking into the cabin is one of the few complaints that recurs on the XC60 across both generations - CarComplaints lists 'Water Leaking In' as a top reported problem on the 2011 (about $2,000 at ~49,000 miles), the 2012 (~102,000 miles), the 2016 (~30,000 miles), the 2018 (~16,000 miles), and 'Sunroof Leaks' as the single worst problem on the 2019 at roughly $5,000 and only ~15,000 miles. The mechanism is the panoramic sunroof's four corner drain tubes and the cowl/plenum drains clogging with pine needles and organic debris, or a drain hose popping off its nipple; the tray then overflows into the A-pillar and headliner and the water runs down into the footwells and under the seats. What makes this expensive rather than annoying is what is underneath the carpet: control modules, the seat and airbag wiring, and on Gen1 the fuel pump electronic module. A leak that starts as a damp carpet frequently ends as a module replacement, an airbag light, or mold remediation.
Common Symptoms
Damp or soaked carpet in the front or rear footwells
Water dripping from the headliner or A-pillar trim
Musty or mildew smell from the HVAC or cabin
Fogged windows that will not clear
Sloshing sound from the doors or pillars
Intermittent electrical faults, airbag light, or module errors after wet weather
How to Fix
Do not chase the symptom by replacing seals. Locate the actual water path by pouring water into the sunroof tray corners and watching whether it exits behind each wheel. Blow the sunroof drain tubes clear with low-pressure air (never high pressure, which pops the tubes off inside the pillar) and clear the cowl plenum drains under the wiper cowl. Re-seat any drain hose that has come off its nipple. If the carpet is already wet, pull it and the underlay out and dry them completely, then inspect every connector under the seats and in the footwell for green corrosion. Preventively, clear the cowl and sunroof drains of leaf debris every fall - this is a maintenance item on this vehicle, not an optional one.
On the 2010-2017 Volvo XC60, first-generation XC60 models experience premature A/C compressor clutch failure, often accompanied by a worn clutch bearing that produces a grinding or squealing noise when the A/C is engaged. The clutch may slip intermittently before failing completely, resulting in warm air from the vents. In some cases the compressor internal seals also fail, contaminating the system with metal debris.
Replace the A/C compressor assembly (clutch-only replacement is possible but not recommended on high-mileage units). Flush the A/C system if metal debris is present, and replace the receiver/drier and expansion valve. Evacuate and recharge with R-134a refrigerant to proper specification.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Genuine Volvo 31250665 A/C compressor clutch
replace a diagnosed serviceable clutch/coil/bearing assembly when the compressor internals and sealing system remain sound Fitment/availability: First-generation XC60 compressor/VIN branch using service clutch 31250665; confirm compresso…
replace a confirmed internally failed or non-serviceable complete compressor Fitment/availability: XC60 engine/chassis branch whose VIN and compressor label cross to Volvo 36011277; not a universal 2010-2017 compressor Fitment/availabili…
replace the corresponding complete compressor after internal failure is established Fitment/availability: XC60 engine/chassis branch whose VIN and compressor label cross to Volvo 36050840; excludes 36011277 and other compressor branches …
On the 2010-2017 Volvo XC60, aWD-equipped first-generation XC60 models develop worn rear differential mounting bushings, causing a clunking or thumping noise during acceleration, deceleration, or gear changes. The rubber bushings deteriorate over time, allowing the differential to move excessively. This is especially noticeable in cold weather and can be mistaken for transmission or driveshaft issues.
Common Symptoms
Clunk on acceleration from stop
Thump during gear changes
Vibration at highway speeds
Noise worse in cold weather
Clunk when shifting to reverse
How to Fix
Replace the rear differential mounting bushings. OEM bushings are fluid-filled and will eventually fail again; many owners upgrade to polyurethane or solid bushings for longer life at the cost of slightly increased NVH. The rear subframe must be partially lowered for access, requiring 2-3 hours of labor.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
replace the diagnosed failed later-chassis rear differential carrier bushing Fitment/availability: 2010-2017 first-generation Volvo XC60 AWD from chassis 156012 where VIN and installed number confirm 31256914; earlier chassis branch is e…
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2019-2020 V90, XC60, S60, V60, V60CC, S90, V90CC, S90L, and XC90 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump can blow a fuse and fail.
Volvo Cars USA LLC (Volvo Cars) is recalling certain 2019-2020 S60, V60, V60 Cross Country, S90L, V90, V90 Cross Country, XC40, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. Due to a software/hardware incompatibility, the Automatic Emergency Brake (AEB) system may not detect obstacles and engage as intended.
Campaign #20V14400012/03/2020
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2019 Volvo XC60 hybrid electric vehicles, equipped with certain AeroVironment electric vehicle TurboCord and TurboDock/TurboDX charging systems. Capacitors within these charging systems may fail, possibly resulting in a shock hazard or a fire.
Campaign #18V58900005/09/2018
SEATS
Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2018-2019 XC60 and S90 vehicles. The driver and passenger front seat rail rear flange nuts may not have been installed during assembly.
Campaign #19V22000020/03/2019
STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE
Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Volvo XC60 vehicles. Under certain conditions and cold temperatures, the tailgate lifting arms may freeze which may cause the lifting arms to separate from the vehicle.
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2017 Volvo XC60 has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Sunroof and Cowl Drain Blockage Causing Cabin Water Intrusion and Secondary Electrical Faults, A/C Compressor Clutch and Bearing Failure, Rear Differential Mounting Bushing Wear (AWD). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Volvo XC60 reliable?
The 2017 Volvo XC60 has 3 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Sunroof and Cowl Drain Blockage Causing Cabin Water Intrusion and Secondary Electrical Faults. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Volvo XC60 problems?
Repair costs for known Volvo XC60 issues range from $200 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Sunroof and Cowl Drain Blockage Causing Cabin Water Intrusion and Secondary Electrical Faults, typically costs $200-$5,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2010-2019 Volvo XC60 Sunroof and Cowl Drain Blockage Causing Cabin Water Intrusion and Secondary Electrical Faults?
Water leaking into the cabin is one of the few complaints that recurs on the XC60 across both generations - CarComplaints lists 'Water Leaking In' as a top reported problem on the 2011 (about $2,000 at ~49,000 miles), the 2012 (~102,000 miles), the 2016 (~30,000 miles), the 2018… Repairs typically run $200-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2010-2017 Volvo XC60 A/C Compressor Clutch and Bearing Failure?
First-generation XC60 models experience premature A/C compressor clutch failure, often accompanied by a worn clutch bearing that produces a grinding or squealing noise when the A/C is engaged. The clutch may slip intermittently before failing completely, resulting in warm air fro… Repairs typically run $600-$1,400. Severity: medium.
What is the 2010-2017 Volvo XC60 Rear Differential Mounting Bushing Wear (AWD)?
AWD-equipped first-generation XC60 models develop worn rear differential mounting bushings, causing a clunking or thumping noise during acceleration, deceleration, or gear changes. The rubber bushings deteriorate over time, allowing the differential to move excessively. This is e… Repairs typically run $300-$700. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
