Volvo is recalling thousands of plug-in hybrids in the U.S. due to a potential fire risk when parked and fully charged, which could lead to a short circuit. This issue poses a serious safety concern, especially when the vehicle is parked in a garage overnight. As a result, owners are advised not to charge their vehicles until the recall is resolved.
The recall affects 7,483 cars, including plug-in hybrid versions of the 2020-2021 S90, 2022 V90, and 2020-2022 S60, V60, XC60, and XC90 models. Volvo has identified a “production deviation” in the battery module that may cause a thermal runaway event. The batteries, supplied by LG, could develop an internal short circuit in certain cells, leading to this issue.
The company became aware of the problem after a customer reported a “thermal event” on February 6, 2024, which led to an investigation. While there have been two incidents linked to the issue, neither resulted in injuries, crashes, or fatalities.
Volvo plans to notify owners in May, instructing them to take their vehicles to a dealership for an inspection. If any faulty cells are identified, the battery module will be replaced at no cost to the owner. Additionally, all affected vehicles will receive new software to monitor the battery module.
