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

28

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2023 photo
Xc90 2023
Volvo

0

4

17

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2022 photo
Xc90 2022
Volvo

0

3

23

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2021 photo
Xc90 2021
Volvo

0

5

27

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2020 photo
Xc90 2020
Volvo

0

6

14

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2019 photo
Xc90 2019
Volvo

0

6

18

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2018 photo
Xc90 2018
Volvo

0

3

32

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2017 photo
Xc90 2017
Volvo

0

7

31

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2016 photo
Xc90 2016
Volvo

0

8

28

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2014 photo
Xc90 2014
Volvo

4

0

27

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

11

0

25

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2012 photo
Xc90 2012
Volvo

3

0

24

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2011 photo
Xc90 2011
Volvo

18

1

16

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2010 photo
Xc90 2010
Volvo

12

3

14

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2009 photo
Xc90 2009
Volvo

7

1

22

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2008 photo
Xc90 2008
Volvo

28

3

29

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

37

2

26

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2006 photo
Xc90 2006
Volvo

51

3

32

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2005 photo
Xc90 2005
Volvo

222

6

30

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2004 photo
Xc90 2004
Volvo

460

6

30

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volvo xc90 2003 photo
Xc90 2003
Volvo

96

5

28

3.1
  • 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. Bradly Collier 2025-02-21

    Vehicle year: 2011

    I recently purchased a used 2010 XC90 with 100k miles on it. Although the front leather seats were worn out with cracking and fading, the car was in good condition overall. Here are some observations I made about the car at this age: 1. The gas mileage is actually decent for an old, heavy SUV. I am getting 19/20 with the standard V6. 2. The oil level sensor is very sensitive, so I usually put a full 8 quarts in, even though 7.8 quarts is recommended. It burns oil very slowly, so the light will come on mid-oil change, even though it's still in the dipstick range. I usually go ahead and top it off with another half a quart. 3. There's a weird auto fan feature with the AC that the previous owner warned me about. If you leave the AC on when you shut off the car, it tries to circulate air while you're away. The problem is if the car sits for several days this way, you'll kill the battery. You have to remember to shut off the AC when the car is parked for a while. And, since the battery is in the back of the car, you'll have to crawl in from the front to change it if there's not enough power to unlock the tailgate. 5. A few items like seatbelt latches and keyless entry have not stood well with the test of time. It's best to double-check those locks before you walk off trusting that all 4 doors are actually locked. 6. Mechanically, the car is great for 10 years old. There are no leaks anywhere, the engine is clean, and it runs well. I would highly recommend buying one used if you find one with low miles.

  2. Jaylin Sawayn 2025-02-19

    Vehicle year: 2006

    I've owned this car for almost 6 years now. While it has had a few minor issues, they were mostly covered under warranty until it hit 80K. Unfortunately, the warranty has now expired and it has been a bit of a hassle. I have an AWD 6 cyl. turbo with 90,000 miles on it. This is actually my second Volvo and my family currently owns 2 XC90's, so we have double the experience. Some of the issues we've encountered include the anti-skid sensor, which cost $700 to fix, and the fact that it burns through tires in about 30k miles even with gentle driving. The latest problem is that the wheel bearings are shot. My husband also has a 2005 Volvo and we recently spent about $3,000 on new tie rods, bearings, e-brake, and oil pump, but his check engine light is still on. It's been frustrating, but we're hoping to find a solution soon.

  3. Stephen Jacobson 2025-02-18

    Vehicle year: 2018

    Despite following the recommended maintenance schedule for my 2018 Volvo, I encountered an issue with an oil leak. Upon inspection, the dealership claimed that the issue was due to a lack of maintenance and oil sludge build-up. However, I had changed the oil twice using 100 percent synthetic oil, which is what Volvo calls for, at a local oil change shop in my hometown. While the manual recommends using Volvo for servicing, it does not require it, and there was no indication that receipts needed to be kept. Despite providing bank statements and maintenance records from an actual Volvo dealership, the manufacturer denied my warranty claim. This lack of cooperation and trust has led me to pay off my lease early and trade in my vehicle for a different brand. It is unfortunate that the manufacturer was unwilling to work with me or the two Volvo dealerships who tried to help me resolve this issue.Unfortunately, it appears that the manufacturer is exploiting any possible loophole to avoid honoring your warranty and requiring you to pay for repairs out of your own pocket. This is a clear example of why consumers must be cautious.

  4. Alexandre Yost 2025-02-15

    Vehicle year: 2005

    The XC90 has been a disappointing purchase due to multiple mechanical issues, including transmission failure and the need for radiator and hose replacements. Unfortunately, the service departments at the two Volvo dealerships I visited were unprofessional and rude. Despite their lack of assistance, I was able to learn that the XC90 has a history of mechanical flaws. I hope that Volvo will take steps to address these issues in the future.

  5. Armani Adams 2025-02-09

    Vehicle year: 2016

    I was disappointed with my recent car purchase. I traded in my reliable GL450 2010 for a car that has not met my expectations. Despite its high price tag, I have experienced several issues with the electronics and panel control. Even as someone who is tech-savvy, I have struggled to maneuver the car after 9 months of ownership. The A/C has also been unreliable, making it difficult to have conversations in the car. During a trip on the highway in hot weather, the car blacked out multiple times, leaving us without power and uncomfortable in the heat. While the dealer has been helpful, there have been several recalls and parts on back-order. The parking aid and app starter have also been unreliable. I have had issues with the trunk controls, which have led to an accident. I would recommend avoiding this car until these issues are resolved.

Latest positive Volvo Xc90 car reviews

  1. Ryley Windler 2025-02-21

    Vehicle year: 2014

    After many years of wanting this car, I am thrilled to say that we finally took the plunge and I absolutely love it! I feel incredibly safe in it, and the fact that the third row folds flat has given me even more storage space than my previous Yukon. I adore the body style and truly hope that it never changes - it was the first thing that made me fall in love with it. Additionally, the 5-year free maintenance is a fantastic bonus. However, I do wish that navigation or even Bluetooth were standard for the price.

  2. Kennedi Mann 2025-02-20

    Vehicle year: 2018

    I'm so glad to hear that you love your car! While it's understandable that you haven't rated the reliability yet, I hope it continues to perform well for you in the years to come. It's great to hear that the air suspension has improved your ride. Your review of the loaded inscription model with polestar is very helpful, and it's good to know that the smoother shifts and great mid range acceleration make the Polestar worth the cost.

  3. Newton Lehner 2025-02-18

    Vehicle year: 2021

    Volvo cars are truly impressive. They are beautiful inside and out, fast, extremely comfortable and functional. Unlike some other brands, Volvo doesn't follow the juvenile play book of the Germans with exhaust that fart & pop under hard acceleration. There is no glow in the dark logo on a ridiculously over sized grill or with in dash distracting screens everywhere. Yet, Volvo has the on board tech that some other brands haven't managed to integrate in their designs. The build quality is flawless. If I sound like I'm sold on the brand, you're right. This is my second Volvo in three years after leasing six Audi. I will never go back. Update: I have a new EX90 Twin Performance EV on order. Still #VolvoForLife.

  4. Thaddeus Swift 2025-02-18

    Vehicle year: 2012

    I traded my 2011 XC70 for this 2011 XC90 in March 2011 for a road trip from Alaska to Texas on to California and back to Alaska. This baby took me on a 13,000-mile adventure in just 30 days! I have to say, I have never had a vehicle cradle me on a long trip like this one. Even after driving many 600-800 mile days, I had not one ache or pain at the end of the day. The OEM Perrelli tires weren't great, so I switched to Continental AWD Contacts and it's now luxury personified. The NAV is a bit clunky, but I got used to it as the days went on. I always leave the NAV on because the backup camera takes too long to rise up. It's sad I gave up newer technology in the XC70, but ergonomically the XC90 is much better for tall guys.

  5. Ewell Huel 2025-02-14

    Vehicle year: 2008

    I bought my 3.2 AWD with 22k miles when it was two years old. Since then, I have put about 45k miles on it. I have only had to repair one thing besides brakes and tires, which was an emissions pump. I think having only one repair outside of maintenance in almost 70k miles is acceptable. Due to its weight, if you drive aggressively, expect it to eat brakes, tires, and gas mileage to be in the teens. The original Pirellis had to be replaced shortly after I bought it because they were worn out. I put Sumitomos on it and have yet to replace them with over 40k miles. I do a pretty even mix of city/highway driving, and I anticipate getting another year (15/20k miles) out of them.

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