Are Volvo Xc90 Reliable Cars

The Volvo XC90 is widely regarded as a dependable luxury SUV, especially in recent model years. While earlier versions had some reliability concerns, improvements in engineering and quality control have made newer XC90s solid choices for long-term ownership.

Key Takeaways

📑 Table of Contents

Introduction: Is the Volvo XC90 a Reliable Choice?

When shopping for a luxury SUV, reliability is often one of the top concerns. You want a vehicle that looks great, feels premium, and—most importantly—won’t leave you stranded with frequent breakdowns. So, are Volvo XC90 reliable cars? The short answer is: yes, especially if you’re considering models from 2016 onward.

The Volvo XC90 has come a long way since its debut in 2002. Early models, particularly those from the mid-2000s, faced criticism for electrical glitches, transmission hiccups, and higher-than-average repair costs. But Volvo listened to feedback and made major improvements. The second-generation XC90, introduced in 2015, marked a turning point. Built on Volvo’s new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, it featured updated engines, better build quality, and modern technology. Today, the XC90 stands as one of the most dependable luxury SUVs on the market.

What Do Reliability Ratings Say About the Volvo XC90?

Are Volvo Xc90 Reliable Cars

Visual guide about Are Volvo Xc90 Reliable Cars

Image source: volvoinsights.com

Reliability ratings from trusted sources like J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, and RepairPal offer valuable insight into how the XC90 holds up over time.

According to J.D. Power, recent XC90 models score above average in dependability, particularly in the 2017–2020 range. Consumer Reports gives the 2016 and newer XC90s a “Good” reliability rating, noting improvements in engine and transmission performance. RepairPal, which analyzes repair frequency and cost, gives the XC90 a 3.5 out of 5 reliability score—slightly below the luxury SUV average—but this is largely due to higher maintenance costs rather than frequent breakdowns.

One key factor in the XC90’s improved reliability is Volvo’s shift to turbocharged four-cylinder engines. These engines, especially the 2.0-liter Drive-E units, are more efficient and have fewer moving parts than older V6 or V8 options. While some owners report minor issues like turbo lag or infotainment lag, these are generally not deal-breakers.

Common Issues in Older Models

If you’re considering a used XC90, it’s important to know which years to approach with caution. Pre-2016 models, especially those from 2003 to 2010, are more prone to problems. Common issues include:

For example, a 2008 XC90 owner might experience sudden loss of power due to a failing turbocharger or erratic behavior from the infotainment system. These issues are less common in newer models, but they’re worth checking during a pre-purchase inspection.

Improvements in Newer Models

Starting with the 2016 redesign, Volvo addressed many of these concerns. The new platform allowed for better integration of electronics, stronger body structure, and more reliable powertrains. The introduction of over-the-air software updates also means many infotainment glitches can be fixed remotely—no dealership visit required.

Owners of 2018–2023 XC90s report far fewer mechanical issues. The most common complaints now revolve around minor software bugs or wear-and-tear items like brake pads and tires—issues that are typical for any vehicle of this size and age.

Real-World Owner Experiences

Nothing tells the story of reliability quite like real owner feedback. Across forums like Volvo Forums, Reddit, and Edmunds, XC90 owners share a mix of praise and constructive criticism.

Many owners highlight the smooth, quiet ride and the sense of security the XC90 provides. One 2019 XC90 T6 owner from Colorado mentioned driving over 80,000 miles with only routine maintenance—oil changes, tire rotations, and brake service. “It’s been rock solid,” they said. “I’ve never had a breakdown or unexpected repair.”

Another owner, who purchased a 2020 XC90 Recharge (plug-in hybrid), praised the fuel efficiency and electric-only driving for city commutes. “I average about 25 miles on electric, which saves me a ton on gas,” they noted. “The only hiccup was a software update that temporarily disabled the navigation, but Volvo fixed it remotely in a day.”

That said, some owners do report higher-than-expected repair bills. For instance, replacing a faulty air suspension compressor can cost over $1,500 at a dealership. Similarly, brake pad replacements may run $400–$600 per axle due to the use of premium components.

Tips for Buying a Used Volvo XC90

If you’re shopping for a used XC90, here are a few tips to ensure you get a reliable vehicle:

Safety and Technology: A Core Part of Reliability

Reliability isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns—it’s also about feeling safe and confident behind the wheel. The Volvo XC90 excels in this area.

The XC90 has earned Top Safety Pick+ awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) multiple times. It scores “Good” in all crash tests and comes standard with advanced safety features like:

These systems don’t just prevent accidents—they also reduce wear and tear on the vehicle by promoting smoother driving habits. For example, adaptive cruise control helps maintain consistent speeds, which can improve fuel economy and reduce strain on the engine and brakes.

The Role of Technology in Long-Term Reliability

Modern cars rely heavily on software, and the XC90 is no exception. The Sensus infotainment system, while sleek and intuitive, has had occasional bugs—like slow response times or apps freezing. However, Volvo has been proactive in releasing updates. Many owners report that these issues improve significantly after a software refresh.

The introduction of Google-based infotainment in 2022 models further enhanced reliability and user experience. With built-in Google Maps, voice commands, and over-the-air updates, the system feels more responsive and future-proof.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

One area where the XC90 may give some buyers pause is cost of ownership. As a luxury vehicle, parts and labor tend to be more expensive than for mainstream SUVs like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot.

According to RepairPal, the average annual maintenance cost for a Volvo XC90 is around $800—about 20% higher than the luxury SUV average. Common repairs include:

However, these costs are often offset by the vehicle’s durability. Many XC90s reach 150,000–200,000 miles with proper care. Volvo also offers competitive warranty coverage: a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and 4-year/50,000-mile powertrain warranty. The CPO program extends this to 6 years/80,000 miles with 24/7 roadside assistance.

Hybrid vs. Gas: Which Is More Reliable?

The XC90 is available in both traditional gas (T5 and T6) and plug-in hybrid (T8 Recharge) versions. So, which is more reliable?

Generally, the gas models are simpler and have fewer components that can fail. The T8 hybrid adds an electric motor, battery pack, and charging system, which introduces more complexity. However, Volvo has engineered the T8 to be robust, and many owners report trouble-free operation.

One advantage of the hybrid is regenerative braking, which reduces wear on brake pads. But the battery system does require periodic checks, and replacement costs can be high—though still rare within the first 100,000 miles.

Conclusion: Is the Volvo XC90 a Reliable Car?

So, are Volvo XC90 reliable cars? The answer is a resounding yes—especially if you choose a model from 2016 or later. While early versions had their share of problems, Volvo has made significant strides in improving build quality, technology, and long-term dependability.

The XC90 combines luxury, safety, and practicality in a way few SUVs can match. It’s spacious enough for families, loaded with advanced features, and built to last. Yes, maintenance costs are higher than average, but that’s typical for the luxury segment. And with proper care, an XC90 can serve you well for well over a decade.

If you’re looking for a reliable, safe, and stylish SUV that doesn’t compromise on comfort, the Volvo XC90 is a smart choice. Just be sure to do your homework—especially if buying used—and consider a CPO model for added peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Volvo XC90 reliable cars in the long term?

Yes, especially models from 2016 onward. These versions benefit from improved engineering, better materials, and more reliable powertrains. Many owners report trouble-free driving beyond 100,000 miles with regular maintenance.

What are the most common problems with the Volvo XC90?

Older models (pre-2016) may experience transmission issues, electrical faults, and air suspension failures. Newer models occasionally have minor infotainment glitches, but these are often resolved with software updates.

Is the Volvo XC90 expensive to maintain?

Maintenance costs are higher than average for a luxury SUV, with an estimated $800 per year. Repairs like brake service or air suspension work can be pricey, but the vehicle’s durability often justifies the expense.

How does the XC90 compare to other luxury SUVs in reliability?

The XC90 ranks competitively with rivals like the Lexus RX and Acura MDX. While not the absolute most reliable, it outperforms many European competitors and offers superior safety features.

Should I buy a used Volvo XC90?

Yes, if it’s a 2016 or newer model with a clean service history. Avoid early 2000s models unless thoroughly inspected. A CPO warranty can add extra confidence.

Does the XC90 have good resale value?

The XC90 holds its value reasonably well, especially in the luxury SUV segment. Hybrid models and well-maintained examples tend to retain more of their original price over time.