No vehicle owner wants to discover that their vehicle has been recalled for a dangerous reason, but Volvo owners should be on high alert. The brand has made it into the news due to a recall announced in June 2025, which detailed an issue with the braking systems on plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) specifically. This issue, if left unchecked, can potentially result in total brake failure on certain Volvo models dating all the way back to 2020.

Learn more about what caused this recall, which models are affected, and what those impacted should do to stay safe.

What’s Behind the Volvo Brake Recall?

The main issue that caused the Volvo recall is a problematic software version that was installed in the Brake Control Module (BCM) of certain models. If a driver coasts on a downhill gradient for at least 1 minute and 40 seconds, without touching the brake or accelerator, in the “One Pedal Drive” mode or “B” model, the entire system may lose braking functionality.

It’s been reported that pressing the brake pedal under these conditions can even lead to complete brake failure, which heightens the risk of a crash. The cause of the issue is still under investigation, but early reports have indicated it could potentially be linked to an update meant to fix a rearview-camera glitch that accidentally disrupted the braking logic of the affected vehicles.

Which Volvo Models and Years Are Affected?

Nearly 11,500 Volvos were included under the recall notice, with model years going all the way back to 2020. Of those 11,500, around 1,000 vehicles still have yet to get the issue fixed. Affected model years include:

• 2023 C40
• 2025 EC40
• 2025-2026 EX40
• 2023-2024 XC40 EV
• 2023-2025 S60 PHEV
• 2025 S90 PHEV
• 2024-2025 V60 PHEV
• 2022-2026 XC60 PHEV
• 2020-2026 XC90 PHEV

If you have a vehicle that falls within the above make and model time period, you should use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall lookup tool to see if you are affected.

How the Defect Impacts Regenerative Braking and Safety

For those unfamiliar with how this issue actually results in potential brake failure, it’s worth breaking it down. Regenerative braking modes such as the “One Pedal Drive” or “B” mode are central to the driving experience of electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in-hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) because they allow drivers to slow almost all the way down using regen instead of friction brakes.

Regen is a process by which energy is captured during deceleration, such that it is converted into a usable form of energy to recharge your vehicle. Naturally, this is a handy tool for anybody who owns a Volvo EV or hybrid. However, the malfunction with the software means that after extended downhill coasting, the braking system can inadvertently disengage entirely, rather than go through its normal energy conversion process.

What Volvo Recommends Drivers Do Right Now

Having your vehicle recalled is disconcerting, but it’s important to act quickly. If you own a Volvo affected by the recall, there are a few recommendations that the company and NHTSA have listed:

• Immediately turn off the “B” mode for PHEVs or the “One Pedal Drive” mode for BEVs
• Download the recall update as soon as it appears on your Volvo’s infotainment system, or contact a dealership to install it free of charge if it’s not appearing
• Do not coast downhill in an electrified regenerative braking mode until your software is updated and avoid driving in hilly or mountainous terrain

Fortunately, fixing this recall issue is exceedingly simple and only requires downloading an update to counteract the glitch. This means there is no excuse not to get the issue fixed as soon as you are able to, assuming you haven’t already.

How an Auto Protection Plan Can Help When Recalls Fall Short

Recalls address safety defects that occur from an issue with the software or manufacturing of a vehicle, but they don’t always ease the indirect consequences, such as a loss of trust, inconvenience, or financial stress. Adding an auto protection plan to your Volvo can help by providing reimbursements for out-of-pocket costs related to repairs caused by manufacturing issues, but it can also give you peace of mind on the road.

A recall only covers widespread major safety issues that affect a large number of vehicles, but it’s entirely possible that your specific vehicle can have a manufacturing issue. If this is the case and you don’t have a manufacturer’s warranty, or if the issue falls outside that coverage, you’ll be on the hook. By investing in a vehicle service contract or extended warranty with a provider like Endurance, you can rest easy. With many options to choose from, ranging from high-level stated coverage with the Secure Plus plan to the most similar coverage to that offered by manufacturers with the Supreme plan, you can customize a package to suit your specific needs.

On top of this, all Endurance plans come with one free year of Elite Benefits, for a small activation fee, which offers bonus support such as up to $500 in collision discounts, complete tire coverage, windshield repair, and more.* With an Endurance plan, you won’t need to stress if a mechanical breakdown interrupts your journey on the road.

Keep Your Vehicle in Peak Condition with Endurance

Over the years, Volvo has earned a reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle manufacturer, but no company is immune to potential recall issues. This brake control software glitch can have serious consequences for drivers who have not updated their vehicle, so act immediately if you have not done so already. Additionally, enrolling with an auto protection plan provider, such as Endurance Warranty, will help manage future potential mechanical breakdowns.

Call our service plan advisors at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote online. You can also shop our eStore to see your price and plan recommendations almost instantly.

You can view more articles about automotive news on our blog or check out our comprehensive vehicle guides on brands like Honda, Ford, Toyota, and more.