2013 Volvo XC60 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2013 Volvo XC60
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the seat belts:front.
- Scores 2 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2012 Volvo XC60 earns a 87.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine oil consumption / pcv system (moderate severity).
Should You Buy the 2013 Volvo XC60?
The 2013 Volvo XC60 is a remarkably safe and comfortable family SUV that offers outstanding value on the used market. While it demands diligent maintenance to perform its best, a well-cared-for example can be a highly dependable and rewarding vehicle. This is an intelligent choice for buyers prioritizing safety and luxury, provided they're prepared for the occasional European repair.
The 2013 Volvo XC60 is a fantastic used SUV that punches above its weight in safety, comfort, and sophisticated design. While it's not entirely without its quirks, a well-maintained example offers a robust and luxurious driving experience that will serve you well for years to come. Invest in a thorough pre-purchase…
Best Model Years
2013-2016 (later models benefit from Drive-E engines)
Years to Avoid
None explicitly, but very early first-gen models (2010-2011) may have slightly more initial kinks.
Biggest Strengths
- Exceptional safety ratings and robust structural integrity
- Comfortable, well-appointed interior with durable materials
- Generally strong drivetrain components with proper maintenance
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2013 Volvo XC60, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Certain engines, particularly the 3.2L and T6 I6, can develop issues with the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, leading to excessive oil consumption. This can also manifest as oil leaks from the timing cover or other seals. Ne…
Volvo's sophisticated electronics can be prone to age-related failures. Common issues include Driver Information Module (DIM) pixel loss, power tailgate motor failures, faulty wheel speed sensors, and various infotainment glitches. While…
Like many heavier SUVs, the front suspension (especially lower control arm bushings and strut mounts) can wear out, leading to clunking noises, poor alignment, and uneven tire wear. Worn wheel bearings are also fairly common.
2013 Volvo XC60 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2013 Volvo XC60 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the vehicle is still relatively new. Focus on routine oil changes and tire rotations. Most factory defects would have already surfaced and been addressed under warranty.
Maintenance Zone
This is a critical maintenance interval. Expect to address major service items like spark plugs, cabin/air filters, and potentially transmission fluid drain/fills. Keep an eye on tire wear and brake pad life.
Elevated Risk Zone
Components that last through the 60k interval often start showing wear here. Suspension components, wheel bearings, and more intricate engine accessories might need attention. Watch for sensor failures.
High Risk Zone
Beyond this mileage, proactive maintenance and a repair fund are essential. Expect age-related failures of major components, including alternators, starters, and potentially significant engine or transmission work if neglected earlier.
2013 Volvo XC60 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2013 Volvo XC60 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$600-900 (assuming scheduled service)
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., suspension, sensor, PCV parts)
How Long Does the 2013 Volvo XC60 Last?
Focus on vehicles with detailed service records; anything over 100,000 miles should have recent major service items completed or a significant price reduction to account for upcoming expenses.
What 2013 Volvo XC60 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Unmatched safety features provide peace of mind for families.
- Exceptionally comfortable seats and a refined, quiet cabin.
- Distinctive, elegant styling that ages gracefully.
- Confident handling and a solid, planted feel on the road.
Common Frustrations
- Infotainment system (Sensus) can feel dated and clunky compared to rivals.
- Fuel economy, especially with the 3.2L or T6, can be disappointing.
- Parts and labor costs can be significantly higher than domestic or Japanese vehicles.
- Some common electrical quirks and sensor failures can be frustrating.
Who Should Buy the 2013 Volvo XC60?
Best For
- Families prioritizing safety above all else.
- Buyers seeking a comfortable, luxurious, and understated premium SUV.
- Individuals who appreciate solid build quality and Scandinavian design.
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious owners looking for the absolute lowest cost of ownership.
- DIY mechanics without specific Volvo diagnostic tools or experience.
How the 2013 Volvo XC60 Compares to Rivals
The XC60 strikes a good balance between German luxury and Japanese reliability, leaning towards the former in terms of feel and occasional repair complexity, but generally proving more robust than many direct German rivals over time.
More Reliable Than
- Land Rover LR2 (for overall reliability and running costs)
- BMW X3 (for potentially lower repair costs on average, fewer common catastrophic failures)
- Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class (for fewer complex electrical issues)
Comparable To
- Audi Q5 (similar premium feel, comparable electrical quirks, but often higher repair bills)
- Acura RDX (similar driving dynamics, but the Volvo has a more premium cabin)
NHTSA Recalls
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SEAT BELTS:FRONT
Volvo Cars of N.A., LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2008-2016 V70 and XC70, 2007-2016 S80, 2011-2018 S60 and V60, 2016-2018 S60 Cross Country, 2014-2020 S60L, 2009-2015 S80L, 2009-2016 XC60 and 2015-2018 V60 Cross Country vehicles. The flexible steel cable that connects the seat belt to the front outboard seating positions may fatigue over time, causing the seat belt to not secure the occupant in the event of a crash.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
Volvo is recalling certain model year 2013 S60 and XC60 vehicles. A manufacturing defect within the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) control unit may lead to an inadvertent deployment of the seat belt pretensioner and/or inflatable curtain.
What breaks on the 2013 Volvo XC60?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 2013 Volvo XC60? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Volvo XC60 by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Volvo XC60. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2013 Volvo XC60
Parts and accessories matched to your 2013 Volvo XC60
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Just bought a 2013 Volvo XC60? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Volvo XC60's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Volvo XC60
Most Reliable Cars to Buy Used (Top 10 Ranked)
Get our expert-ranked list of the 10 most reliable used cars you can buy today, saving money and avoiding future headaches with smart choices.
Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner: Which Lasts Longer?
Get the definitive answer: Which truly lasts longer, the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner? Our comparison reveals their long-term durability.
Toyota Tacoma vs Chevy Colorado: Reliability Compared
Explore a head-to-head reliability comparison of the Toyota Tacoma vs. Chevy Colorado. Discover which truck truly stands out for long-term dependability.