Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2020 Volvo S60
The 2020 Volvo S60 shows some concerns around the electrical system and brakes, as evidenced by four recall campaigns and a few owner complaints. However, the complaint count is relatively low, suggesting limited evidence of widespread issues. Prospective buyers should still consider inspection and test drive checks focusing on these areas.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2020 Volvo S60 has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 9 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #25V179000 High-Voltage Battery May Short Circuit NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V780000 Front Passenger Air Bag May Deploy Improperly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V414000 Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Fuse Can Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V144000 Automatic Emergency Braking May Not Engage NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Service Brakes 4 complaints
- Forward Collision Avoidance 3 complaints
- Electrical System 2 complaints
- Steering 2 complaints
- Suspension 2 complaints
- Power Train 1 complaint
Of the 9 complaints on file, 1 reports a crash (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Traction battery short circuit
How to check: Inspect battery compartment for signs of repairs or damage.
Improper air bag deployment
How to check: Ensure air bag light is not on and check recall completion.
Fuse and circuit breaker issues
How to check: Check braking response during test drive.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises from engine bay.
Red flag: Persistent knocking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for warning lights on dashboard.
Red flag: Illuminated warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check forward collision alert functionality.
Red flag: No response to obstacles
- 04
Braking test
What to check: Feel for smooth, responsive braking.
Red flag: Grinding or delayed response
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth gear shifts and acceleration.
Red flag: Hesitation or jolting
- 06
Steering test
What to check: Ensure steering feels precise and stable.
Red flag: Loose or unsteady steering
- 07
Final parking
What to check: Listen for abnormal sounds when stopping.
Red flag: Creaking or groaning sounds
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the air bag recall been addressed?
- Have there been issues with the traction battery?
- Any recurring problems with the brakes?
- Has the AEB system been reliable?
- Have any electrical repairs been made?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Proof of completed recalls
- Recent maintenance records
- Warranty status documents
- Battery health report
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2020 Volvo S60 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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