Volvo Xc90 problems

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.
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Volvo Xc90 model years
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.
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
Latest positive Volvo Xc90 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2021
The car drives well, although it could benefit from a bit more power, perhaps a V6 (I have the T6). Some design features could be improved - a few more buttons instead of a tablet, and larger cup holders in a family vehicle would be helpful. Visibility can be challenging when merging right due to the headrest in the second row. While the Park Assist is a fun gadget, it may not be practical for everyday use. The Pilot Assist can be buggy and is a bit scary to use on roads with traffic lights or on roads where the lines are even slightly ambiguous, so it's best to keep it for highways. The tablet looks similar to Tesla's, but it's not the most practical way to control air and other functions while driving. The Hands-Free Tailgate is not the most intuitive design and takes some getting used to. However, the child booster seat is well-designed. It would be great if rear sunshades were an option. It's surprising that a car costing 62k_ doesn't have power tilt and telescopic steering and more controls on the seats.
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Vehicle year: 2010
I bought this SUV because I did an in-depth research and found out that it is the safest one around. I looked at the NHSA and IIHS's ratings, as well as some detailed rollover test results from JRS rollover test. I might have taken safety a little too seriously, but I believe it's worth it. Looking beyond just the readily available ratings, I found out that Volvo's safety reputation is well deserved. Another plus is that the interior is functional and flexible for our family of 4 (plus grandparents), and to my eyes, this SUV looks better than the others.
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Vehicle year: 2023
Took delivery 3 weeks ago after owning the 2016 XC90. I'm absolutely loving the new hybrid! It's much quieter and smoother than my 2016, even without air suspension. I'm especially thrilled with the Pure electric mode, which has allowed me to complete my 10 mile round trip work commute without using any gas for the entire three weeks of ownership. The new Google interface of the infotainment system is also a much-needed improvement over the old system. It's so much easier to use overall, with easy access to temperature controls and a vastly improved navigation system using Google Maps. Overall, I'm really impressed with the changes for 2023 and the plug-in hybrid option. It's a significant improvement over my previous 2016 XC90.
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Vehicle year: 2017
I recently traded in my beloved VW Touareg Executive for a Volvo XC 90. I considered several other options such as the Audi Q7, Jag F Pace, and Jeep Grand Cherokee, but I found that the XC 90 was the best fit for me. I have previously owned 2 X5's and a Super Charged Range Rover, so I have extensive experience with these types of vehicles. The XC 90 is an exceptional car with a super quiet ride, a surprisingly good 4 cylinder engine, and loaded with technology. Even the stock sound system is excellent, so I wouldn't recommend spending the extra $2,600 on the upgrade unless you're a hardcore audiophile. While the HUD option is okay, it's not visible with polarized sunglasses, which seems like a design flaw. The self-drive mode is cool, but I probably won't use it much, and the lane departure nudging can be a bit annoying, but I'm willing to give it time. The headlights are incredibly bright, and the iPad-like controls are easy to use and give the car a nice clean look. Overall, the XC 90 is a fantastic high-end crossover that I highly recommend test driving and checking out.
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Vehicle year: 2007
After you ordered an '07 3.2, you spent a week in Germany driving a '07 V8 at high speeds. You were afraid the 3.2 might be a let-down, but it has not been. The six is completely adequate; quick enough off the line and the passing lane. Shift points match the engine well at all speeds. The XC90 is nimble for a two ton vehicle. The seats are very comfortable, the interior is well designed, and quality materials are used throughout. Overall, it sounds like you made a very satisfying purchase!
Kameron Reichel 2025-03-27
Vehicle year: 2018
Hello! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're sorry to hear that you've been having some trouble with your 2018 model. We appreciate your feedback and we'll do our best to help you resolve these issues. Please let us know if there's anything we can do to assist you further.
Deonte Douglas 2025-03-25
Vehicle year: 2003
Be careful of what you wish for. We really liked the design of the Volvo XC90, but unfortunately, we had some issues with it. After driving it for 30k miles, we had to replace the entire front end, which took about 4 attempts by the dealer to fix. At 80k miles, the transmission failed, which was quite expensive to repair. Additionally, around 110k miles, the CD changer and radio stopped working, which was quite frustrating. The roof liner on both sides of the windshield also came off. Unfortunately, at 113k miles, the transmission failed AGAIN! We finally decided to say Good-bye to the car this morning. Although we had a bad experience with this Volvo, we still appreciate its design. However, we will be looking for a different brand for our next car. Thank you for reading our story.
Darius Jast 2025-03-25
Vehicle year: 2017
I really want to love this car, but I'm struggling with the build quality and service. Unfortunately, they are not up to par with other luxury brands, especially considering the price you pay. I bought mine brand new back in 2017 with all the options, including air suspension. As of this review, it has 28K miles after almost 4 years, always garaged and well maintained. On the positive side, the styling inside and out is great. The interior is one of the best I've seen, with comfortable seats and a quiet interior. I love the air suspension and the ability to put it into dynamic sports mode. The Bowers and Wilkens sound system sounds fantastic. The 4-cylinder engine is a little noisy at high revs, but otherwise, it's okay and powerful enough for our occasional San Francisco to Los Angeles trips. However, there are some downsides. The interior squeaks, rattles, and makes a high-pitched noise. For a $75K car, I expected better build quality. Even a $3K sound system cannot drown out the annoying noises. After 2 years, a high-pitched noise from the dashboard developed when driving over rough asphalt. The dealer could not identify the source and would not replace it. After 3 years, a constant squeaking noise from the 2nd row developed regardless of road condition or if anyone is sitting there or not. The dealer told me that Volvo only has a 1-year warranty on squeaks and rattles. Also, after 3 years, one of the chrome trims on the window started to come off. The dealer also told me that Volvo only has a 1-year warranty on body and trim defects. In conclusion, I believe that Volvo can provide a better customer experience by improving the build quality or at least having a better warranty to address issues that come up in the first 4 years. I've had several Lexus cars in the past, including a 1996 LX450 that I drove for 15 years and 273K miles, and I never experienced so many annoying noises from the cabin. I have a BMW that has a more comprehensive warranty that covers these types of issues. Service can also be improved. It's very difficult to get loaner vehicles, unlike Lexus and BMW, but this may be specific to the dealer I go to (McKevitt Volvo in San Leandro, CA).Based on my experience with the cost of the car over the last 4 years, I would probably not buy another Volvo. I hope this information is helpful to someone.
Zachery Schowalter 2025-03-22
Vehicle year: 2006
I have owned four Volvos, all bought used, and they have all been excellent cars. While the gas mileage of the first three was acceptable, I was disappointed with the mileage of my 2006 XC90 with a T-5 engine. Despite the outstanding comfort, style, and performance, the average mileage of 12.5 miles per gallon is not sustainable for me. I have taken all necessary steps to maintain the car, including replacing the spark plugs at a cost of $25 each. Although the motor performs well and is extremely smooth, I am hopeful that a software update may improve the mileage, but I am not counting on it. While I did not do my due diligence when purchasing this car, I am now looking to trade it in for a luxury car with better mileage. Although I will lose money in the process, it is a necessary step. My wife and I are getting older, and this was supposed to be our last car, but unfortunately, it will be our next to last car. I am eager to explore my options and find a car that meets my needs.
Kolby Swaniawski 2025-03-21
Vehicle year: 2004
Avoid purchasing this model. Despite having only 80K miles and being less than 3 months old, I am already experiencing severe transmission problems. Unfortunately, it appears that this is a common issue with XC90s, particularly those from 2005 and earlier. It is worth noting that the warranty I purchased does not cover repairs until after 90 days from the date of purchase. While the car was initially good, the transmission issue has significantly impacted my experience.