Volvo XC90 Common Faults: Solutions, Problems And Breakdowns!

If you’re looking for a reliable mid-size luxury SUV, you can’t go wrong with a Volvo XC90. In case you are interested in buying a Volvo, we bring you the common faults of the Volvo XC90 , so that you are aware of them.

Both newer and older models have something good to offer, from good fuel economy to a great selection of standard safety features. Its resale value is also good, depreciating only 54% after five years.

How good is the Volvo XC90?

The Volvo XC90 enjoys above-average reliability, with some of its model years scoring better than others. It is given 3.5 out of 5.0, ranking it eighth out of 14 mid-size luxury SUVs in its category.

On the other hand, some reports rated the 2021 Volvo XC90 a 75 out of 100, placing it in the top ten best luxury midsize SUVs for that year. With these figures, it is clear that the Volvo XC90 can easily enjoy a long service life with proper handling and regular maintenance.

Common faults of the Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 is a reliable midsize luxury SUV, but it does have its fair share of issues. Here are the common Volvo XC90 failures reported for the different model years:

1- Problems with the brake system

According to some 2016 Volvo XC90 owners, problems with its braking system are common for the model year. The automatic emergency brakes would reportedly come on by themselves without any warning.

Most drivers have complained that this often occurs at highway speeds . This problem reportedly usually occurs on low mileage SUVs with at least 12,000 miles.

Many owners have also complained that their auto brake and brake warning lights often come on intermittently. In some cases, the seat belts also activate on their own. Although these issues are a serious security hazard, no official recall has been issued to fix them as of this writing.

2- HVAC system problems

When it comes to 2007 Volvo XC90 problems, climate control system problems are among the most common. Many homeowners have complained that their A/C compressor fails intermittently.

Your A/C wouldn’t connect and cool until your XC90 got hot, taking longer and longer to start as your SUV racked up mileage.

In some cases, the air conditioner does not cool down and blows hot air. It is also possible that the heating does not come on. Heat wasn’t coming out of the vents, but the seats did get warm.

When owners of affected units took their XC90s to the garage for repair, most were told they needed an climate control module and software update to resolve the issue. Volvo has released software updates to the climate control module to correct certain faults in the climate control system.

3- Oil leak problems in the AWD differential case

Some 2006 Volvo XC90 owners have complained of oil leaks coming from the AWD differential case. Most have noticed differential or transmission fluid leaking from the front of their SUV.

The seals inside the angular gear assembly failed after some time , causing oil to leak from your gearbox. Several drivers also reported that their vehicle began to burn oil through the exhaust pipes.

In addition to oil leaks, another common sign that the AWD system is about to fail is a rattling or fluttering noise coming from the front axle or angle drive assemblies.

There are various issues that can cause the system to make these sounds, such as leaking gaskets. If your Volvo exhibits these symptoms, you can fix it by replacing the worn gaskets.

4- Transmission failure

The 2005 Volvo XC90 doesn’t have as many problems as other model years. But it has been reported that some units have developed serious drivability problems related to their transmission.

Many owners have complained that their transmission started to fail around 101,000 miles. They reported that they heard strange noises from the transmission before it malfunctioned.

For some, the issue caused more serious problems, as their transmission gave out without warning while they were on the road. Most technicians recommend replacing the transmission to resolve this issue. At the time of writing this article, no releases have been made to fix this issue.

5- Problems with the audio system

According to some 2004 Volvo XC90 owners, problems with the audio system are typical for this model year. Many have reported issues related to the CD player, radio, and premium sound system.

Drivers have also experienced problems with their stock radio , including lost channels, problems with key controls, and CD player problems.

Volvo has released software updates to address some of these issues. However, resolving non-software issues often involves repairing or replacing damaged components.

6- Disadvantage of tire wear

Some 2003 Volvo XC90 owners have reported problems with their tires, most experiencing premature tire wear at 7,500 miles.

Uneven tire wear can lead to poor gas mileage and dangerous problems like a tire blowout. To solve this problem, it is necessary to replace the worn tires.

To end

If you’re in the market for a Volvo XC90, be prepared to accept the good with the potential bad. But do not worry. As long as you know the problems that the model you are thinking of buying can develop, your purchase should not involve a great risk.

Look up the most common problems that affect the model you have in hand and make sure the seller has fixed everything before you take it home.