What are the most common problems with the 2012 Volvo XC60?

The most common complaint involves **windshield leaks** and poor sealing, impacting visibility and potentially damaging the interior and electronics.

How many recalls does the 2012 Volvo XC60 have?

The 2012 Volvo XC60 currently has 5 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2012 Volvo XC60 a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The most common complaint involves **windshield leaks** and poor sealing, impacting visibility and potentially damaging the interior and electronics. Steering system issues, including loss of power assist, have been reported and require careful inspection. Electrical system faults, such as charging failures, are a concern for owners. Verify that all **5 safety recalls**, particularly those concerning seat belts and underbody coating, have been properly addressed. The 3.0L 6-cylinder engine paired with all-wheel drive delivers adequate performance but contributes to **high fuel costs** with a combined 20 MPG. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2012 Volvo XC60?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2012 Volvo XC60.

2012 Volvo XC60 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The most common complaint involves windshield leaks and poor sealing, impacting visibility and potentially damaging the interior and electronics.
Steering system issues, including loss of power assist, have been reported and require careful inspection.
Electrical system faults, such as charging failures, are a concern for owners.
Verify that all 5 safety recalls, particularly those concerning seat belts and underbody coating, have been properly addressed.

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Overview

2012 Volvo XC60

The 2012 Volvo XC60 offers a blend of safety and practicality, but used car shoppers should be aware of its reliability shortcomings. With 5 recalls and 56 complaints filed with NHTSA, this SUV presents potential ownership risks. The most frequently reported problem is related to the windshield seal, leading to water leaks that can affect visibility and damage electrical components. Steering and electrical system issues are also noted. Despite a strong safety rating, potential buyers must prioritize thorough inspections to mitigate these known weaknesses.

Critical Failure Risk

Water ingress from the windshield seal is a prevalent issue, impacting visibility, potentially damaging electronics, and compromising structural integrity. This is the most frequently reported problem.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls5

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Visibility/Wiper19

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing safety ratings and a comfortable ride over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Volvo XC60 Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 20

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Most Common Issues

1. Visibility

Most reported

Usage: 19 reports

2. Structure & Body

Usage: 4 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

5 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2012 Volvo XC60 reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Volvo XC60 is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 56.

How practical is the 2012 Volvo XC60 for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Volvo XC60?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Volvo XC60 is 7.1/10. Overall score is 7.1/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Volvo XC60?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Windshield Seal (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What engine is in the 2012 Volvo XC60?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.0.

What transmission does the 2012 Volvo XC60 use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Volvo XC60, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Volvo XC60?

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Volvo XC60?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2012 Volvo XC60?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Volvo XC60, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Volvo XC60 use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Volvo XC60, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Volvo XC60?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2012 Volvo XC60?

Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (19 reports, 33.9% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Volvo XC60?

This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Volvo XC60?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Acura RDX and 2012 BMW X3.