Buy Volvo XC60 Headlight Assembly

Quick Summary

The Volvo XC60's headlight-also called the headlamp, front light assembly, or beam unit-has grown from basic halogen H11 bulbs in early models to today's full-LED "Thor's Hammer" signature lamps and optional Pixel LED matrix lights. These lights bring features such as active bending, automatic high-beam assist, self-leveling, and integrated washers. Keeping them bright and legal means knowing your bulb type, how to align the lamps, how to clear condensation, and when upgrades (or recalls) apply. (Volvo Cars, Matthews Volvo Site, Car and Driver, IIHS Crash Testing)

Design Evolution

First generation (2009-2017)

• Halogen reflector low-beams (H11) and optional Bi-Xenon projector units dominated the early XC60 years. (Volvo Cars)
• Headlights could be removed in seconds thanks to Volvo's quick-release bar-handy for bulb swaps.

Second generation (2018-present)

• Volvo introduced its "Thor's Hammer" T-shaped LED running light that doubles as low beam in most trims, bringing sharper night vision and distinctive styling. (Design story)
• Top trims after 2022 add Pixel LED matrices (84 LEDs per side) that shade sections of the beam so you can leave high beam on without blinding others. (Volvo support on Pixel pattern)
• Active bending lights swivel into curves at up to 15° for better corner visibility. (Volvo Cars)

Headlight Types

← scroll table horizontally →

Volvo's official guides walk owners through swapping halogen bulbs-no tools beyond a Torx-25 are required (step-by-step).

Safety Ratings

• The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives LED-equipped 2020-2022 XC60s an "A" headlight score, noting good high-beam reach and available assist. (IIHS data) (IIHS Crash Testing)
• Euro NCAP's 2017 XC60 crash test comments highlight the lamps' auto-dimming that limits glare for other road users. (Euro NCAP report)
• Volvo's Active High Beam Control stays on full beam, masking out other cars via moving shields-previewed back in 2013. (WIRED)

Regulations & Alignment

• U.S. law permits adaptive matrix headlights as of 2022; software updates now unlock more Pixel LED functions. (Reddit)
• Volvo includes a thumb-wheel on halogen models so drivers can lower the beam when the SUV is fully loaded (leveling chart).
• Aim the cutoff so the left edge sits just below head-height of oncoming traffic at 25 ft (7.6 m) for legal compliance in most regions. (Check local DMV handbook.)

Common Problems

Condensation

Normal mist may clear after 20 min with lights on; heavy water indicates a seal leak. Volvo's Technical Journal TJ 17076 offers a leak-test before replacing the assembly. (PDF)
Owners on SwedeSpeed note repeated fogging on 2019-2021 cars, often fixed under warranty. (Swedespeed)

Bulb or module fault

TSB #TJ17076.11 addresses "Headlamp low/high beam malfunction" DTC codes B157013/B157913 for 2019 XC60; software and resealing solve most cases. (CarComplaints.com)

Maintenance & DIY

• Washer jets: Pull the stalk back for 1 second to spray both windshield and headlights; avoid use when fluid is frozen. (Official guide)
• Headlamp removal: Lift the silver retaining bar, unplug wiring, slide the unit forward; total time under five minutes. (Volvo Cars)
• Halogen bulb swap: Never touch the glass-use gloves to avoid hot spots that shorten life. (Volvo Cars)
• LED modules are sealed; replacement means changing the whole assembly, often covered by the 4-year/50k mi warranty.

Upgrade Options

• 2009-2017 owners often retrofit LED projector kits, but ensure the unit carries DOT/SAE markings to stay legal.
• From 2024, Pixel LED headlights can be ordered as a $350 option on select trims, according to price sheets cited by Car and Driver. (Car and Driver)
• Software unlocks may enable pixel shading in markets where regulations now allow matrix lights-check with a Volvo dealer before coding. (Reddit)

Environmental Impact

LED lamps draw up to 70 % less power than halogens, lowering alternator load and CO₂ output-part of Volvo's broader energy-reduction goals. (DOE case study)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What bulb does a 2015 XC60 use for low beam?
A: Most 2015 models use an H11 halogen bulb unless equipped with Bi-Xenon lamps. (Volvo Cars)

Q: How do I adjust my XC60 headlights after loading the trunk?
A: Roll the thumb-wheel on the dash down one click per extra adult passenger or heavy cargo to keep the beam low. (Volvo Cars)

Q: Does the 2025 XC60 come with LED headlights?
A: Yes, every 2025 trim has standard full-LED headlamps, and upper trims add Pixel LED matrix shading. (Car and Driver)

Q: What are "Thor's Hammer" lights?
A: They are T-shaped LED running lights that wrap into the main beam, first seen on Volvo SUVs in 2015. (Matthews Volvo Site)

Q: Why is there fog inside my headlamp lens?
A: Light mist is normal; heavy moisture signals a leak. Volvo's leak-test bulletin shows how to check seals. (NHTSA Static)

Q: How can I clear condensation quickly?
A: Remove the back cover on a dry day, run the lights for 20 minutes, and let the moisture vent out.

Q: How long do LED headlamps last?
A: The sealed modules are rated for about 10 years or 30,000 hours-far longer than halogen bulbs.

Q: Can I convert my halogen XC60 to LED?
A: Yes, with DOT-approved projector kits or by swapping the entire lamp assembly; you'll also need a software reload for BCM compatibility.

Q: What is Active Bending Light?
A: Motors rotate the beam toward a curve when you steer, improving edge visibility at night. (Volvo Cars)

Q: Is there a headlight recall on the XC60?
A: As of May 2025, no U.S. safety recall exists, but multiple Technical Service Bulletins cover condensation and control-module faults. (CarComplaints.com)

Q: How do I use the headlight washers?
A: Pull the wiper stalk for at least one second; they spray automatically with every fifth windshield wash. (Volvo Cars)

Q: What does Adaptive High Beam do?
A: A front camera hides parts of the high beam to avoid glare while keeping the rest of the road fully lit. (WIRED)

Q: Will Pixel LEDs dazzle other drivers?
A: No; individual LEDs dim or shut off around detected vehicles within milliseconds. (Volvo Cars)

Q: What routine care keeps headlights clear?
A: Wash the lenses weekly, apply a UV-resistant sealant twice a year, and replace worn wiper blades to prevent scratches.

Q: Are brighter aftermarket bulbs always legal?
A: Only if they meet local brightness limits (usually 300-lumens max per bulb) and carry DOT/SAE markings on the housing.