IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2017 Volvo XC60 (Gen 2)

Second-generation XC60 launched in 2017 on SPA with the full Drive-E engine family, Pilot Assist and block-alert safety; UK sales from early 2018 registrations, instantly the best-selling Volvo on the market.

What changed for 2017

  • •2017: SPA-based XC60 debut with T5/T6 and D4/D5 engines
  • •2019-2021: plug-in hybrid Recharge versions and mild-hybrid B-specification updates
  • •2024-2025: refreshed front end, new interior screens and updated engines for 2025 models

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Air suspension compressor wear on 4C cars
  • !Panoramic roof drain blockages
  • !ERAD hybrid rear-drive failures in moisture-affected examples
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

ERAD (Electric Rear Axle Drive) Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Plug-in hybrid (Recharge/T8) models can suffer from rear electric motor failure, often caused by internal coolant ingress or bearing wear. This is a "known issue" on the SPA platform where coolant leaks into the motor housing, eventually shorting the unit or destroying the bearings.

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

High-pitched whining or grinding from the rear, "Propulsion System Service Required" warning, Total loss of electric-only drive mode

What to Inspect:
  • Drive in pure electric mode and listen for rear-axle noise
  • Check for hybrid system warnings
  • Ask if the ERAD has the improved "Gen 2" motor or has had a coolant-seal inspection
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Air suspension compressor or leak issues

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

Optional air suspension can suffer compressor wear or leaking airbags, especially on heavier, high-spec cars.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,500
Warning Signs:

One corner low after parking, Slow height changes, Compressor noise

What to Inspect:
  • Overnight stance
  • Repeated raise/lower operation
  • Air-suspension service history
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Panoramic roof drain leaks

ModerateBodywork & Rust

Blocked or poorly draining panoramic-roof channels can leak water into the cabin and eventually affect electronics.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£1,000
Warning Signs:

Damp headlining, Wet carpets, Musty smell or misted windows

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect headlining and front footwells
  • Check drains if possible
  • Look for water marks around roof opening
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Infotainment and software instability

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Sensus and some early Google-based systems can reboot, lose connectivity or briefly take out climate and assistance menus.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£400
Warning Signs:

Screen reboots, Frozen menus, Driver-assistance settings disappear temporarily

What to Inspect:
  • Use all major functions on the test drive
  • Check software version
  • Confirm dealer update history
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2017 Volvo XC60 (Gen 2)

  • The 2021+ light-hybrid updates are the better used buys.
  • Confirm PHEV cars carry their recall completion including the engine-running-on software.
2018–2020
Check a 2017 Volvo XC60 (Gen 2) by Registration