Volvo Xc90 problems

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The Volvo XC90 is a mid-size luxury SUV manufactured and marketed by Volvo Cars since 2002 and now in its second generation.

The first generation was introduced at the 2002 North American International Auto Show and used the Volvo P2 platform shared with the first generation Volvo S80 and other large Volvo cars. It was manufactured at Volvo's Torslandaverken. Volvo moved production equipment of the first generation to China and ended Swedish production at the end of 2014, renaming the car as the Volvo XC Classic (or Volvo XC90 Classic).

At the end of 2014, the second generation XC90 was introduced. It is based on a new global platform, the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA). Both generations of the XC90 have won Motor Trend's SUV of the Year award in their debuts.

In late 2022, the electric-only EX90 was introduced as the successor of the XC90.

photo of Volvo Xc90 car production

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Volvo Xc90 model years

volvo xc90 2024 photo
Xc90 2024
Volvo

0

1

31

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2023 photo
Xc90 2023
Volvo

0

4

22

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2022 photo
Xc90 2022
Volvo

0

3

30

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2021 photo
Xc90 2021
Volvo

0

5

31

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2020 photo
Xc90 2020
Volvo

0

6

17

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2019 photo
Xc90 2019
Volvo

0

6

20

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2018 photo
Xc90 2018
Volvo

0

3

39

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2017 photo
Xc90 2017
Volvo

0

7

38

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2016 photo
Xc90 2016
Volvo

0

8

35

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2014 photo
Xc90 2014
Volvo

4

0

32

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2013 photo
Xc90 2013
Volvo

11

0

30

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2012 photo
Xc90 2012
Volvo

3

0

27

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2011 photo
Xc90 2011
Volvo

18

1

22

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2010 photo
Xc90 2010
Volvo

12

3

22

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2009 photo
Xc90 2009
Volvo

7

1

25

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2008 photo
Xc90 2008
Volvo

28

3

34

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2007 photo
Xc90 2007
Volvo

37

2

32

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2006 photo
Xc90 2006
Volvo

51

3

39

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2005 photo
Xc90 2005
Volvo

222

6

34

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2004 photo
Xc90 2004
Volvo

460

6

33

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2003 photo
Xc90 2003
Volvo

96

5

37

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Volvo Xc90 problems

The Volvo XC90 has been a popular choice for luxury SUV buyers, but like any vehicle, it has had its fair share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners:

  • Electrical System Malfunctions: The electrical system in the XC90 has also been a source of frustration for some owners. Problems include sudden loss of power, faulty warning lights, and electronic glitches.
  • Engine Failures: Engine failures have been reported in various model years of the XC90. These issues can lead to costly repairs and may affect the vehicle's performance and reliability.
  • Water Leaks: Water leaks are another issue that some XC90 owners have reported. These leaks can cause damage to the vehicle's interior and may lead to electrical problems if not addressed promptly.
  • Faulty Gearboxes: Faulty gearboxes have been reported in some XC90 models, leading to issues such as rough gear shifts and premature transmission failure.
  • Airbag Malfunctions: There have been recalls for airbags that may not deploy correctly during a collision in certain XC90 models. These recalls affect models produced between 2015 and 2017.
  • Software Issues: Software issues have been reported in some XC90 models, including problems with the vehicle connectivity module (VCM) that sends location information to the emergency services after a collision.
  • Seatbelt Malfunctions: Some XC90 models have had issues with front seatbelt buckles that may separate during a collision, leading to a reduced level of protection for occupants.

While Volvo as a brand ranks well in terms of reliability, some individual model years and components of the XC90 have had more issues than others. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and consider them when making their purchasing decision. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise can help ensure a safe and reliable driving experience in the Volvo XC90.

Volvo Xc90

What is the common problem of the Volvo XC90?

Several owners praised the XC90 for its dependable performance, noting few issues within the first years of ownership. However, others reported recurring problems, including faulty warning lights, electronic glitches and drivetrain malfunctions. These issues sometimes led to costly repairs.

Is the Volvo XC90 a reliable car?

Volvo XC90 Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Volvo XC90 Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 8th out of 14 for luxury midsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $851 which means it has higher than average ownership costs.

What year did the Volvo XC90 have transmission problems?

2003-2005

A federal judge has approved a settlement agreement reached between Volvo and 95,000 owners of XC90 vehicles that had defective transmissions. In 2009, a class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of owners of 2003-2005 Volve XC90 T6 sports utility vehicles (SUV).

Is the Volvo XC90 high maintenance?

The average annual repair cost for a Volvo is $769, which means it has above average ownership costs.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Volvo Xc90 years

We have researched Volvo problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volvo Xc90 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volvo Xc90 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volvo Xc90 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Volvo Xc90 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Volvo Xc90 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Volvo Xc90 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Volvo Xc90 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Xc90 model years

A total of 17 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Xc90 model years

There were a total of 19 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Xc90 model years

There were a total of 19 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 949 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volvo Xc90 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volvo Xc90 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Volvo Xc90 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-30
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-02
  • VIN: YV4952CY3E1
  • Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Brake Vacuum Booster: P/Q BRAKE BOOSTER. P/Q BRAKE FLUID $3271.36 Other]: P/Q ENGINE VACUUM PUMP SEAL KIT Front Suspension vibration and while vibration
Volvo Xc90 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-08-05
  • Date Complaint: 2024-04-11
  • VIN: YV4CN592961
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Awakened to lights flashing, horn going off, wipers running on a vehicle that was parked with keys removed. The cem underneath driver's side dash had gotten wet from rain water leaking into it and subsequently shorted out requiring $2350 replacement via dealer. This IS A Huge problem.... however, and wait for it. IT IS NOT DUE TO THE SUNROOF.... I know this with absolute certainty because I have 3 2006-2010 xc90's and NONE HAVE SUNROOFS but all 3 had to have CEM reprogrammed. I can't understand why NOTHING has been done about this... it's absurd.
Volvo Xc90 2007
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-12-01
  • Date Complaint: 2023-12-29
  • VIN: YV4CT852971
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Volvo XC90. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated on the instrument cluster. The local dealer was contacted, and it was diagnosed that the failure was due to the air bag module. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but the result was unknown. The manufacturer was contacted, and a recorded message referred her to the dealer. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
Volvo Xc90 2007
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2023-11-27
  • VIN: YV4CY982671
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: I am writing to bring to your attention a concerning matter regarding my recently acquired 2007 Volvo XC90. Upon refueling the vehicle to a level exceeding half the tank capacity, there is a discernible and persistent odor of gasoline within the cabin. Given the potential safety implications associated with such an issue, I am seeking your guidance on the appropriate course of action. In researching this matter, I have come across similar concerns raised by other owners of the same vehicle model. This has heightened my awareness of the need to address this issue promptly and comprehensively. In an effort to troubleshoot the matter, I have inspected the fuel cap and surrounding areas for visible leaks. However, the matter persists, prompting my inquiry. Additionally, I would appreciate it if you could advise on any potential recalls, technical service bulletins, or common issues related to the fuel system in the 2007 Volvo XC90. Thank you for your time and expertise in addressing this concern. I look forward to your guidance on resolving this matter promptly and ensuring the continued safety and reliability of my vehicle.
Volvo Xc90 2007
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
  • Date Complaint: 2023-09-02
  • VIN: YV4CM982371
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Drivers side fuel tank sending unit print or sending unit top leaking fuel, a check engine light appeared and almost instantly started smelling like gas. The check engine said small evap leak. This is a huge safety concern for my family and I. No further action has been done.
Volvo Xc90 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-15
  • Date Complaint: 2023-07-15
  • VIN: YV1CZ852951
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: I’ve had to change my fuel injection pump and catalytic convert twice on one year.
Volvo Xc90 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-07
  • Date Complaint: 2023-06-13
  • VIN: YV4952CZ1E1
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The automobile is still at Jim Ellis Volvo Mall of Georgia not being repaired because Volvo USA has declined to assist. The problem with the steering has been vocally delivered to me by service department as the Universal Joint in the steering column has failed. This is a large expense which I should not have to be responsible for with at car this early in it's life, 85K.
Volvo Xc90 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-05
  • Date Complaint: 2023-06-06
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: YV4CY592061
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The tensioner pulley for the serpentine belt seized up while traveling at 70 mph, melting the serpentine belt and causing an engine fire.
Volvo Xc90 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-29
  • Date Complaint: 2023-06-02
  • VIN: YV1CY592951
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: ADAS, AIR BAR Warning lights/urgent and High Gas fumes coming out from the rear seats when fully filled gas. We had called 800-458-1552 and guided us to plug in our VIN [XXX] on www.volvocars.com and nothing showed as far as recall and told us that these recalls expired and our 2005 Volvo are not eligible. 2005 Volvo XC90 that relates to NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V483000, Make: VOLVO Model: XC90 Model Year: 2005 Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC. Mfr's Report Date: DEC 17, 2009 NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 09V483000 NHTSA Action Number: PE09039 Component: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINEELIVERY:FUEL PUMP Potential Number of Units Affected: 136100 Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2005 S80, MODEL YEAR 2001-2004 V70, S60, XC70 AND MODEL YEAR 2003-2005 XC90 VEHICLES SOLD IN OR REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF ALABAMA, ARIZONA, ARKANSAS, CALIFORNIA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, HAWAII, KENTUCKY, LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI, NEVADA, NEW MEXICO, NORTH CAROLINA, OKLAHOMA, SOUTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, UTAH, VIRGINIA AND THE U.S. TERRITORIES. WHEN EXPOSED TO CERTAIN ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS (HOT CLIMATE AND TEMPERATURE CYCLING) OVER TIME AND IN COMBINATION WITH VARYING FUEL QUALITY, THE FUEL PUMP CAN DEVELOP CRACKS IN THE FUEL PUMP FLANGE. Consequence: IF THE CONDITION OCCURS VEHICLE OWNERS MAY NOTICE FUEL SMELL AND/OR FUEL LEAK WHICH, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE. Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL PUMP INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE, AND IF NECESSARY REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP WITH A PART OF A MODIFIED DESIGN. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JANUARY 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552. My wife and I had purchased our Volvo XC90 in 2005, here in CA. Six months ago everytime we filled up the gas tank, we would smell a heavy fumes of gas as it was coming from the inside of the vehicle. We had called the Volvo 800 number above and guided us to plug in our VIN [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Volvo Xc90 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-04-07
  • Date Complaint: 2023-05-16
  • VIN: YV1CZ59H641
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The rear right door cannot be open from inside the car. It opens fine from outside. I am aware there is a child safety lock, but in this case the problem is somewhere else. Regardless of the child safety lock position, the door cannot be open. This is a hazard, because in case oof an accident the passenger will e trapped inside the car.
Volvo Xc90 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-09
  • Date Complaint: 2023-05-16
  • VIN: YV1CZ59H641
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Few days ago I came home, parked the car inside the garage and went inside. An hour later I went to the garage for something and noticed a very strong gasoline odor coming from the car. It is not coming from the reservoir and I did not put any fuel recently, so it can't be explained with a fuel spill. I suspect it is coming from the fuel pump. I as hoping or it to goo away, but it did not. It has been a week already.
Volvo Xc90 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-04-08
  • Date Complaint: 2023-04-11
  • VIN: YV4982CY9A1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Volvo XC90. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle, but the failure persisted. Due to failure, the vehicle was towed to the residence. An independent mechanic arrived at the residence and discovered a leak in the fuel line. Upon investigation, the contact linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V147000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.
Volvo Xc90 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-03-10
  • Date Complaint: 2023-03-17
  • VIN: YV1CZ59H141
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Unknown..but water accumulated under the passenger seat under the amp and electrical components after a storm or rainy day.and its a lot of water when I brake i can hear a water fall..and water rushing and moving along the bottom. Of the car as I am steering im worried that the wiring and electrical will be damaged by water exposure the battery always dies wires soaked and sitting in water underneath passenger and never can completely get the moisture smell out of front seat area..mildew..why is this water leaking or not draining correctly ??
Volvo Xc90 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-01-05
  • Date Complaint: 2023-01-17
  • VIN: YV1CZ852251
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Water is leaking from the windshield into the driver and passenger side inside on the window obstructing my view while driving. Cannot drive the vehicle while it’s raining. Serious safety problem! Please recall and fix all Volvos with this problem.
Volvo Xc90 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-28
  • Date Complaint: 2023-01-17
  • VIN: YV4CT852091
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: A plastic Fuel Pressure Sensor bracket holder, part number: 30720139, found on Volvo V8 XC90 and S80 (2005-2011) can crack, resulting in a fuel leak within the engine compartment. See attached picture of 30720139, with highlight of plastic assembly. No replacement part is available from Volvo, since ~Dec 2021, per this link: https://www.swedespeed.com/threads/06-xc90-v8-fuel-pressure-sensor-mount-snapped.640161/post-7969481 However, an aftermarket solution is now recently available: https://www.swedespeed.com/threads/volvo-v8-fuel-pressure-sensor-bracket-replacement-billet-6061.656808/#post-7986238 https://www.ebay.com/itm/115630747349

Latest 5 recalls Volvo Xc90

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 73 recalls for different components of the Volvo Xc90.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Volvo Xc90 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2023-12-07
  • Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
  • Summary: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2015-2024 XC90 vehicles. The second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly.
  • Consequence: An improperly tightened seat belt buckle may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing their risk of injury during a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten the second-row seat belt buckle anchorage bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10259.
  • Model: Volvo Xc90 2023
  • Report Received Date: 2023-12-07
  • Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
  • Summary: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2015-2024 XC90 vehicles. The second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly.
  • Consequence: An improperly tightened seat belt buckle may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing their risk of injury during a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten the second-row seat belt buckle anchorage bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10259.
  • Model: Volvo Xc90 2016
  • Report Received Date: 2023-12-07
  • Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
  • Summary: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2015-2024 XC90 vehicles. The second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly.
  • Consequence: An improperly tightened seat belt buckle may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing their risk of injury during a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten the second-row seat belt buckle anchorage bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10259.
  • Model: Volvo Xc90 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2023-12-07
  • Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
  • Summary: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2015-2024 XC90 vehicles. The second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly.
  • Consequence: An improperly tightened seat belt buckle may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing their risk of injury during a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten the second-row seat belt buckle anchorage bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10259.
  • Model: Volvo Xc90 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2023-12-07
  • Manufacturer: Volvo Car USA, LLC
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
  • Summary: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2015-2024 XC90 vehicles. The second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly.
  • Consequence: An improperly tightened seat belt buckle may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing their risk of injury during a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten the second-row seat belt buckle anchorage bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10259.

Latest negative Volvo Xc90 car reviews

  1. Sterling Cronin 2025-05-12

    Vehicle year: 2005

    Your car sounds like a great ride! It handles beautifully for its weight and height, and the seats are the most comfortable of any cars you've owned. The exterior design is classy, and the interior design is highly functional and efficient. It's easy to drive and park, and the generous cargo bay is a plus. Although the second row leg room is tight to make room for the third row, it's still a great car. It's reliable during the 4 year warranty period, and the dealer service is top-notch. On the downside, it could use a bit more power and better fuel economy, and it needs a new set of tires every two years. You also had some electrical problems starting year 5, but overall it's a great car!

  2. Trenton Keeling 2025-05-08

    Vehicle year: 2004

    Our 2004 T6 unfortunately had a transmission problem that required us to be towed from Lake Tahoe to a Sacramento Volvo Dealer (109 miles). However, we have done our research and found that this is a known issue with this model. We are confident that the dealership will be able to resolve the issue for us. We are aware that some owners have received full replacements, including transmission, lines, and radiator, which can cost around $7000. We will keep you updated on the progress.

  3. Archibald Rau 2025-05-07

    Vehicle year: 2016

    Update: Finally got rid of the Volvo, I didn't enjoy it during the time I had it. I'm now eagerly waiting for the 2018 BMW x5 to come out. Unfortunately, I've had a few issues with my current car, including 3 app upgrades and 3 recalls. My nav system stopped working and I had to upgrade the brake pads after only 12,000 miles. It's been a challenge to figure out how to properly use the radio system, even after a year of owning the car. When I take my car in for repairs, it can take a few days, but the team always does their best to fix the issues. Although the car looks great, I don't think it's worth the $66,000 I paid for it. I wouldn't recommend buying it. Thank you for reading!

  4. Jordy Breitenberg 2025-05-06

    Vehicle year: 2016

    We bought our 2016 XC90 with only 8 miles on the odometer on June 30, 2016. Since then, we have had to take it in for 5 separate repairs, totaling 31 days in the shop. Fortunately, the car is still under warranty. However, we have had some starting issues, navigation issues, transmission slipping, and even an incident where only the driver side door would unlock. This was a safety concern, and we had to drive a loaner vehicle until the issue was resolved. Despite these issues, the car is beautiful and fun to drive when it's running smoothly. However, we do wish we had considered other options like Audi or Land Rover. If you're considering purchasing this car, we recommend waiting until the kinks have been worked out. UPDATE: We had to take the car in for repairs a total of 8 times within months of purchasing it. After discussions with lawyers, we were able to return the car and get a new one through a process with Volvo and the dealership. It was a long and difficult process, but we now drive a 2017 version that is running well.

  5. Rusty Hand 2025-05-04

    Vehicle year: 2016

    The 2016 model (non-first edition) is not a reliable car for long-term ownership. Despite glowing reviews from reviewers who only took it for a short test drive, my personal experience was far from positive. The car leaked twice and spent more than 30 days in the shop during the first several months of ownership. After a long and drawn-out process, the car was deemed a lemon and I was able to upgrade to a Q7, which is a far superior vehicle. The issues with the car were not limited to leaking, and I found the support from VCNA and the dealers to be unsatisfactory. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend this car for long-term ownership.

Latest positive Volvo Xc90 car reviews

  1. Layne D'Amore 2025-05-12

    Vehicle year: 2018

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with the 2018 XC90 T8 Inscription that I purchased back in August 2017. While I did encounter a couple of software/battery issues that required the car to be towed in the first year of ownership, I'm happy to report that I've now passed the 3 year mark with no other issues! The car is absolutely beautiful and luxurious on the inside, and the seats are incredibly comfortable. While the voice recognition for the phone isn't perfect, it works well enough for my needs. One of my favorite things about this car is that I can often just use the battery for a couple of short trips in a day, which means I don't have to fill up as often. Since I drive less than 10K miles a year and mostly in town, I probably only fill up once every few weeks. Overall, I'm really enjoying my experience with this car and would definitely recommend it to others!

  2. Robert Prosacco 2025-05-12

    Vehicle year: 2007

    I really love this car and would buy it again a million times. The seats are very comfortable and plush. Although the leather doesn't hold up as well as some others, it's still comfortable. My Volvo lasted around 200,000k and then broke down. I had regularly maintained it, but it needed a lot of work done to get it up and running again, so I had to part with it. But I am looking for a newer one because I loved it so much! I would highly recommend this car, with a rating of 9/10 (lost a point due to a few quirks such as low-tech compared to competition and also the common transmission issues).

  3. Justus Franecki 2025-05-11

    Vehicle year: 2018

    We recently purchased a loaded Inscription to replace our Sienna minivan. It met all the requirements for a relatively kid- and mom-friendly SUV: easy ingress and egress, access to a reasonably large third row, ample storage, and excellent safety ratings. The X90 is a large SUV on a car wheel base, so it feels nimble and maneuverable, while at the same time offering the solid build you'd expect from a Volvo. We love the true-SUV riding height and visibility of this vehicle, without the lumbering and bulky feel of some full-size, truck-based-chasis SUVs. However, what sets this car apart is the unmatched style and interior quality and fit-and-finish. The open-pore, natural wood details in the cockpit are gorgeous, along with the stitched leather clad dash, buttery soft leather seats, and elegant and efficient control layout. Even at 6'5The car can be a bit of a distraction and may feel like it takes some time to get used to. However, it performs well with its 4-cylinder engine, although it may sound a bit whiny. The car has two main performance settings, 'comfort' and 'dynamic'. The comfort setting provides a nice, cushy ride, but the engine may feel a bit too slow and subdued. On the other hand, the dynamic setting provides a nice, firm ride, but the car may feel a bit too eager to downshift. During a test drive, it's important to pay attention to the various performance settings to see which one suits you best. The Bluetooth connectivity may be a bit slow and cumbersome, making it a bit of a pain to connect media on your phone to the car. However, overall, these are minor gripes. We've taken the car on several long road trips in all types of weather, including heavy rain and snow, and it's performed perfectly. If Volvo fixes the Sensus interface (more memory, better processor... whatever), I would buy the car again without hesitation.

  4. Wilburn Cremin 2025-05-10

    Vehicle year: 2022

    As a car enthusiast and engineer working in the auto industry (although not for Volvo directly), I recently purchased a 2021 S60 and was so impressed that I also got an XC90 T5 for my wife. Over the past 30 years, we have owned various brands including Nissan, Infiniti, Honda, VW, BMW, and Cadillac, and have had no complaints about any of them. However, the history of Volvo's engines led me to choose the T5 trim for both our S60 and XC90. While there were some issues with premature engine rebuilds due to excessive oil burning in the early T5 engines from 2015-2018, these issues have been addressed with new piston rings and the new T5/T6 engines are usually flawless (except for some premature supercharger failures on the T6). I prefer the T5 (2023 mild hybrid and called B5) because it is a simpler engine design that has been in production for about 10 years now. Neither of our Volvos consume any appreciable amount of oil between oil changes. The T5 feels peppy enough as long as you're not driving a loaded car all the time. I recommend avoiding the Recharge (T8) due to numerous issues. The ride in the XC90 is great with no appreciable wind noise, and it is definitely the most solid car we have ever owned. The S60 is also very sturdy. Volvo has a ton of engineering safety features (real tangible things, not gimmicks) that are very unique and give them an advantage over every other brand. This was the main reason I bought my first Volvo. We usually keep cars for many years and so far it looks like these will be no exception. We have had no issues at all with either of our Volvos, just oil changes. It's important to note that the trim level matters, and the Recharge is a very complex car with new technology that works well but is not reliable. This applies to any other premium plug-in hybrid.Just be prepared to handle those issues and don't expect a vehicle with so much software and electronics to be as reliable as a pure gas car. I must say, the build quality is amazing. If you're a car enthusiast and work on them, you'll immediately notice that with Volvos. When you look under the car, it's a work of art. The organization of the components and quality of the build is second to none. The extensive use of aluminum is another indication that this car is definitely a premium vehicle.

  5. Robin Borer 2025-05-10

    Vehicle year: 2013

    I purchased this vehicle through military/diplomatic sales in Bahrain and it exceeded my expectations. Although there were some disappointments, such as the vehicle being delivered to DC/VA almost four/five weeks behind schedule and with the wrong interior color (calcite seats...ouch...), I am still pleased with my purchase. Despite the speakers making a weird bzzzz sound, I installed a Bluetooth and portable 'Garmin for Volvo' navigation system, both of which I am happy with. The portable navsystem is especially useful as it can be used with other vehicles, saving you money when you rent on vacation. I appreciate how well it handles the bumpy DC/VA roads and that there are no blind spots like in other SUVs. Additionally, the free service plan on 2010 models is a major perk!

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