So I need to change out the brakes. Online, many retailers sell brake pads with the caveat that some are for XC60's with variant code RC01 whereas others are for RC02. How can one tell which variant code vehicle they have?

 

The dealer needs to look it up by VIN. Some may not be so willing to do so if you are buying your parts elsewhere.

 

I'm Variant 1. Found the work order from when we bought the car and they replaced the front brakes. Had the part number and that part number matched with Variant RC01.