IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2018–2022 Volvo XC40

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2018–2022 Volvo XC40. None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

3
Known Issues
0
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2018–2022 period has 1 more issue than the Volvo XC40 average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Infotainment Freezing and Software Glitches

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Earlier cars with Sensus and 2022+ models with Google-based Android Automotive can suffer from screen freezes, blackouts, or lost GPS/connectivity.

Most affected: All trims, particularly 2022+ Google-based models

Estimated cost: £0–£1,000Affects: 2018–2024Often appears around: Age-related rather than mileage-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Black or rebooting central screen
  • •Bluetooth, GPS or nav drops out
  • •Camera and climate menus unavailable

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check software update history
  • ✓Test all screen functions including nav and cameras
  • ✓Ensure the system responds quickly to touch

12V Battery Drain and Start-Stop Faults

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Battery-management and software issues can flatten the auxiliary or main 12V battery, causing stop-start failure and low-voltage warnings.

Most affected: T3, T4, D3, D4

Estimated cost: £150–£450Affects: 2018–2024Often appears around: Age-related rather than mileage-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Stop-start unavailable
  • •Low battery warnings
  • •Car struggles after standing for a few days

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Ask for battery test results
  • ✓Check how often the car is used for short trips
  • ✓Look for repeat battery replacements in the history

Powered Tailgate Strut and Rear-End Hardware Issues

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The power tailgate on earlier XC40s can corrode, strain or stop closing properly, especially on cars living outdoors through salted winters.

Most affected: Inscription, R-Design, Ultimate, cars with power tailgate

Estimated cost: £250–£800Affects: 2018–2022

Typical symptoms

  • •Tailgate stutters or stops halfway
  • •Grinding or creaking from tailgate struts
  • •Boot refuses to latch first time

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Operate the tailgate repeatedly
  • ✓Inspect struts and hinges for corrosion
  • ✓Check for dealer campaign or warranty history

Buying Tips for the 2018 Volvo XC40

  • ✓Test the infotainment thoroughly because a freezing screen also takes out navigation, cameras and some climate functions.
  • ✓Check the 12V battery and start-stop behaviour, especially if the car has mainly done short urban trips.
  • ✓Operate the power tailgate several times and listen for creaks or strain on earlier cars exposed to UK road salt.
2023–2024 Volvo XC40

Browse 2018–2022 Volvo XC40 in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2018–2022 Volvo XC40 vehicles.

View 2018–2022 Directory

Other Volvo XC40 Year Periods

2018–20222023–2024

Looking at a specific 2018 Volvo XC40?

Enter the registration number to check its full MOT history, outstanding finance, write-off status, and more.

Free Vehicle Check