2025 Volvo EX90 recalled due to headlight software glitch

Volvo is recalling 2,061 EX90 electric SUVs because a software error could interfere with the normal operation of their headlights.

The EX90 was introduced for the 2025 model year, and some of the earliest vehicles built may have incorrect software programming for their low power control units, according to the NHTSA. As a result, those units could send a signal to the headlights to perform a “reference run” while driving, causing shutters to close over the low- and high-beam elements.

These shutters, to which the EX90’s daytime running lights are mounted, open when the headlights are turned on and are supposed to stay open while driving. If they close, the headlights will be blocked and won’t be able to illuminate the road ahead. That reduced visibility increases the risk of a crash at night.

Only vehicles built from the start of production through Jan. 31, 2025, have the incorrect software, according to Volvo. Newer vehicles have updated software, which will also be installed in the recalled vehicles via an over-the-air (OTA) update, or by a dealership. The software update will be free of charge, in either case, and customers will be eligible for reimbursement for any out-of-pocket expenses they might have incurred.

The OTA update is scheduled for Feb. 11, but letters notifying owners of the recall won’t be mailed until Apr. 3. Owners can also call Volvo’s customer service department at 1-800-458-1552 or visit Volvo’s recall site and reference recall number R10298.

This is the first recall of the EX90, but software issues caused a delay in launch as well as the launch of the Polestar 3, which shares the EX90’s SPA2 architecture and is built at the same South Carolina factory. And when production did start last year, continuing software issues meant the EX90 shipped without some promised features.