Common Issues in Mahindra XUV500: Causes and Solutions

The Mahindra XUV500 was once a flagship SUV from the house of Mahindra. It was known for its bold design, spacious interiors and premium features. However, like any other machine, the XUV500 have its fair share of common issues.

The XUV700 has replaced the XUV500, but thousands of owners are still using their XUV500, and many are considering a used XUV500. Over the years, many owners have shared feedback highlighting several common issues on the internet. Hence, it is essential to discuss common problems with the Mahindra XUV500 and how they can be addressed.

Common Issues Faced by Mahindra XUV500 Owners

The common problems with the Mahindra XUV500 include Clutch wear, Brake ineffectiveness, rust formation, power windows malfunction, steering joint stiffness, and more.

Premature Clutch Wear in XUV500

Many owners of the first-generation XUV500 models experience early clutch wear, sometimes even under 40,000 km.

Probable Cause

• Subpar clutch material

• Improper driving habits

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Slippage during gear shifts
• Poor acceleration response

• Increased engine revs with no proportional speed gain

   

Professional Assistance

• Replace worn-out clutch plates
• Opt for a newer clutch design if available
• Avoid riding the clutch and ensure smooth gear transitions

• Check if pre-mature clutch wear is covered under warranty

   

Glitches in the Infotainment System

Many XUV500 owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including screen freezing, navigation failure, and USB playback errors.

Probable Cause

• The infotainment software has bugs

• Hardware os the infotainment system might be faulty

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Blank screen or blacked-out display

• GPS not working or is experiencing frequent crashes

   

DIY Solutions

• Restart the system to reset temporary glitches

   

Professional Assistance

• Request software/firmware updates from Mahindra

• Replace the infotainment unit under warranty if needed

   

Brake Noise and Ineffectiveness

Early models of the Mahindra XUV500 have suffered from noisy braking and inconsistent stopping power.

Probable Cause

• Low-quality brake pads
• Worn-out brake pads

• Low or degraded brake fluid

   

How to Identify the Issue

• A screeching or grinding sound is heard while braking

• Weak braking performance even at low speeds

   

Professional Assistance

• Replace stock brake pads with improved aftermarket units
• Regular inspection and maintenance of the braking system

• Top-up brake fluid

   

Rust Formation on Hinges and Panels

Many owners of the XUV500 raised concerns over rust development on door hinges and body panels within the first year of ownership.

Probable Cause

• Lack of anti-rust treatment

• Driving in high-humidity regions

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Visible rust patches around doors, hinges, and engine bay

• Rusted underbody parts

   

Professional Assistance

• Clean and apply anti-rust coatings on the affect parts

• Request replacement of rusted components under warranty

   

Stiffness in the Steering Joint

The steering joint of the XUV500 have experienced stiffness or jamming, especially in older models.

Probable Cause

• Rust accumulation on the steering joint

• Lack of lubrication

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Difficulty or jamming while turning the steering wheel

   

Professional Assistance

• Remove the rust by immersing the joint in diesel or a comparable solution

• Replace the joint if cleaning doesn’t resolve the problem

   

Power Window Malfunction in the XUV500

Some owners raised concerns over the power windows of the XUV500 getting stuck or failing to function properly.

Probable Cause

• Fault in the power window motor
• Issues with the switches of the power windows

• Jammed window track due to a lack of lubrication

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Windows not rolling up/down
• Unusual noise when using the switch

• The windows are stuck in midway

   

Professional Assistance

• Get the motor and switch assembly checked
• Replace the faulty components

• Lubricate the window tracks

   

Suspension Noise and Ride Quality

Several owners of the SUV500 reported rattling noises from the dashboard and suspension on the rough roads.

Probable Cause

• Interior fittings could be loose

• Worn-out suspension bushes or ball joints

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Rattling from the dashboard while driving on rough terrain

• Thuds from the rear over bumps

   

Professional Assistance

• Tighten dashboard fittings
• Perform suspension inspection

• Replace worn suspension components

   

XUV500’s Weak AC Performance in Hot Weather

XUV500 is equipped with a powerful AC, but for some owners, the AC is found to be ineffective during peak summer weather.

Probable Cause

• The blower might be facing issues
• Low refrigerant level in the system

• Insufficient cabin insulation

   

How to Identify the Issue

• The cabin is not cooling adequately

• Rear passengers complain of warm air

   

Professional Assistance

• Recharge AC refrigerant gas
• Inspect the AC compressor
• Service the HVAC system

• Clean cabin filter and AC ducts

   

Reverse Camera and Parking Sensor Malfunction

XUV500’s reverse camera fails to turn on when slotted into reverse gear. This caused a black screen on the infotainment system.

Probable Cause

• Loose wiring or a software glitch

   

How to Identify the Issue

• No image on screen while reversing
• Sensors fail to beep

• No alarm while reversing

   

Professional Assistance

• Get the wiring and camera inspected for issues

• Update the software or replace the camera unit

   

Automatic Transmission Failure (AT variants)

Some owners of the XUV500 automatic variants have experienced gear shifting issues and warning lights due to possible water contamination.

Probable Cause

• Water intrusion into the sealed transmission

   

How to Identify the Issue

• Dashboard warning lights for the transmission
• The gears are not shifting properly

• Automatic transmission driving in a single gear and unable to shift

   

Professional Assistance

• Request a full transmission inspection and fluid change

• Seek replacement under warranty in case of a manufacturing defect

   

Preventive Maintenance Tips for XUV500 Owners

• Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule
• Clean and inspect door hinges and joints every 6 months
• Update infotainment software periodically
• Perform ECU and brake system checks during every scheduled service
• Use anti-rust treatment for the underbody and exposed metal parts

• Ensure regular AC servicing before the onset of the summer season

   

Conclusion

The Mahindra XUV500 offers a lot of value for money but has its share of common problems. Timely diagnosis, regular maintenance, and proactive servicing can help mitigate most issues. For persistent problems, always work closely with an authorised service centre and maintain documentation for warranty claims.