Volvo XC40 (2017–today)Electrical system
Accelerator sensor cable corrosion on the Recharge, with risk of unintended acceleration in the Volvo XC40
In XC40 Recharge units built between September 2020 and August 2021, moisture can corrode the accelerator pedal sensor cable and cause erroneous signals, with a risk of unintended acceleration. Volvo recalled the affected cars to inspect or replace the wiring, free of charge.[1]
Why this rating?
Critical severity: It can destroy the engine or gearbox, or affects safety.
Frequency occasional: This is a preventive manufacturer campaign limited to a production period of about eleven months; there is no published data on how many cars have actually accelerated unintentionally, so we rate it occasional rather than a systemic problem of the whole Recharge.[1]
Symptoms
- The risk is that the accelerator pedal sends an incorrect signal and the motor accelerates without the driver asking for it; it is not a fault that gives advance warning on the dashboard.[1]
Why it happens
According to gebrauchtwagenberater.de, moisture can get into the accelerator pedal sensor wiring and corrode it, altering the signal that reaches the control unit.[1]
If it is not repaired: A faulty sensor signal can result in the vehicle accelerating without the driver asking for it, with the resulting risk of a collision, especially in low-speed manoeuvres such as parking.[1]
Affected years and cars
The campaign covers XC40 Recharge models built between 8 September 2020 and 13 August 2021, according to gebrauchtwagenberater.de; combustion versions without this sensor are not affected.[1]
How much it costs to repair
Includes: Inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the accelerator pedal sensor wiring at the official service, within the campaign.[1]
gebrauchtwagenberater.de does not publish the cost, as the work is free within the campaign, nor does it say how many units were affected in total.
Prices in Spain, including VAT. A workshop hour costs on average €38–66 at independent garages and €77–134 at dealerships in Spain, depending on the region and the brand. How we calculate costs
How to check for it before buying a used car
- If the XC40 Recharge you are looking at was built between September 2020 and August 2021, check with an official service whether this campaign has already been carried out.[1]
Parts needed
The part or kit that fixes this fault, according to the sources.
- Buy part at Autodoc (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
Accelerator pedal sensor wiring[1]
Transmits the accelerator pedal position to the control unit; the revised version has better protection against moisture ingress.
Affiliate links to Autodoc: if you buy, MotorFiable may receive a commission at no cost to you. Check compatibility using the registration number or the VIN before ordering. More information
How to prevent it
- It is not down to the owner: the fix is the wiring inspection at the official service within the campaign.
Recalls, campaigns and claims
RecallVolvo Car Corporation · 2021
Recall for accelerator sensor cable corrosion
Volvo XC40 Recharge built between 8 September 2020 and 13 August 2021. Free inspection or replacement of the accelerator sensor wiring at the official network.[1]
What owners say
Frequently asked questions
Which XC40s are affected by the accelerator sensor corrosion?
Recharge units built between 8 September 2020 and 13 August 2021, according to gebrauchtwagenberater.de.[1]
What happens if the cable is not checked?
There is a risk that the sensor sends an incorrect signal and the car accelerates without the driver asking for it, especially in low-speed manoeuvres.[1]
Is the check free?
Yes, within the campaign the wiring is checked and, if needed, replaced at no cost at the official network.[1]
What can you do now?
We will put you in touch with a partner only if you authorise it in the form.
Other faults of the Volvo XC40
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalBrakesLoss of electronic brake assistance due to a software faultYes: in January 2023 Volvo recalled more than 100,000 cars built in 2023, including the XC40, because a software fault in the brake module could, in rare cases, cause the electronic brake assistance functions to be lost while driving. The brake pedal continued to work manually and the update is free.Repair: €0
- High severityFrequency: OccasionalBrakesThe brake pedal can move out of position due to faulty assemblyIn 2018 XC40 units, faulty assembly can cause the brake pedal to move out of position and affect the operation of the braking system. Germany's Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA) registered a recall to correct it free of charge at the official network.Repair: €0
- Low severityFrequency: OccasionalElectronics and infotainmentInfotainment system freezes and restartsA noticeable number of XC40 owners describe the infotainment screen freezing and restarting, with a temporary loss of navigation and sound. It is not a fault that immobilises the car, and Volvo has been releasing software (OTA) updates that fix specific episodes.
The faults of its engines are on the Volvo XC40 page.
Have you had this fault? Your case helps other owners know when it appears and how much it costs. Report your fault in 2 minutes.
Sources
Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.
- Volvo XC40: typische Probleme und Schwachstellengebrauchtwagenberater.de · Reliability study · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German