Volvo Cars USA issued a voluntary recall of 14,014 electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The automobile manufacturer warns owners of a rare but serious brake failure risk. The problem only happens under specific conditions. But the prospective danger prompted Volvo to issue the recall.
The recall affects various models from 2020 to 2026. It includes the following plug-in hybrids:
- S60
- V60
- S90
- XC60
- XC90
- XC40
- C40
The issue also impacts Volvo’s EX40 and EC40 battery EVs.
This is the second time Volvo has issued a recall this year. The company recalled around 7,500 plug-in hybrids earlier this year. These vehicles had faulty high-voltage cells that were a fire risk.
Breaking Down the Problem
Volvo reports the issue comes from a software glitch in the Brake Control Module. It affects vehicles with the 3.5.14 software version.
The issue could happen when one’s driving downhill for about 100 seconds in “B” mode and One Pedal Drive mode. The former is a feature of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) while the latter is in Volvo’s electric vehicles (EVs).
The glitch could result in the loss of braking power.
What Consumers Can Do
Volvo has rolled out a corrective software update to resolve the issue. Compatible vehicles could get the updates over-the-air (OTA).
Vehicle owners can also head to Volvo’s authorized resellers to get the update.
The company is also advising customers to avoid using the two modes if they haven’t installed the update.
The faulty version of the software was only installed by dealers. The 3.5.14 software introduced enhancements to the brake system. It also improved the tire pressure monitoring and lane-keeping aid systems. It’s unclear yet how the company didn’t notice the braking bug during testing.