IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2020 Volvo V60 (Gen 2)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2020 Volvo V60 (Gen 2). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

ERAD (Electric Rear Axle Drive) Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Recharge models may face expensive rear motor repairs if the unit develops internal wear or moisture issues, often due to coolant ingress into the motor housing. This "known issue" can lead to bearing failure or electrical shorts.

Est. Repair Cost: £3,000–£8,000
Warning Signs:

Whining noise, "Propulsion System Service Required", Loss of rear drive

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for rear-axle noise
  • Check for hybrid system warnings
  • Ask if the ERAD has been inspected for coolant leaks
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Power Tailgate Strut Failure

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The electric struts can fail, causing the tailgate to become heavy or refuse to open/close correctly.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£700
Warning Signs:

Tailgate stops halfway, Grinding noise, Error message on dash

What to Inspect:
  • Operate the tailgate several times
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

PowerPulse Compressed Air Hose Splitting (D4/D5 Diesel)

ModerateEngine

The PowerPulse anti-lag system on 2.0-litre D4 and D5 twin-turbo diesels uses an electric compressor to inject air into the turbo manifold. The flexible high-pressure air hose can split, resulting in a loud hiss and loss of low-end throttle response.

Est. Repair Cost: £180–£380
Warning Signs:

Hissing or whooshing noise under hard acceleration, Sluggish initial acceleration from standstill, Check Engine Light with boost pressure codes

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the braided PowerPulse hose near the front right of the engine bay
  • Feel for splits or oily soot on the hose
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

48V Mild-Hybrid Starter Generator (ISG) Auxiliary Battery Faults

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

On B3, B4, and B5 mild-hybrid variants, the Integrated Starter Generator module and 48V auxiliary battery can suffer communication faults or software glitches, leading to rough stop-start restarts.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£950
Warning Signs:

"Stop/Start Service Required" warning, Hesitant engine restart in traffic, Battery charge indicator warning

What to Inspect:
  • Test stop-start functionality during road test
  • Check for Volvo service campaign updates for the 48V BMS
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2020 Volvo V60 (Gen 2)

  • ✓Listen for whining from the rear on T6/T8 Recharge models.
  • ✓Check the power tailgate for smooth operation; it can become noisy or jerky with age.
  • ✓Verify that all safety system recalls have been completed, particularly regarding the ADAS software.
  • ✓On D4 and D5 diesel models, check the PowerPulse compressed air hose for splits or whistling under acceleration
2018–20192021–2022
Check a 2020 Volvo V60 (Gen 2) by Registration