The most commonly reported problem is transmission and drivetrain trouble, especially in the early XC90 models.
Across XC90 generations, owners have frequently cited transmission wear or failure, rough shifts, and related drivetrain symptoms. While the second-generation XC90 (introduced in 2015) improved many issues, electrical gremlins, suspension components, and water leaks remain recurring complaints in certain trims and model years. This article surveys the most commonly reported faults, with notes on generation-specific patterns and practical guidance for prospective buyers and owners.
Overview of the most commonly reported problems
Below is a consolidated view of the issues most often described by XC90 owners and highlighted in warranty data and recall records. The aim is to help readers understand where problems cluster and what to watch for when assessing a used XC90.
- Transmission and drivetrain troubles, including rough shifting or transmission failure
- Electrical system and sensor problems, such as warning lights, sensor faults, and infotainment glitches
- Water leaks and moisture intrusion from sunroof drains or door seals
- Suspension and steering component wear, including air-suspension related faults on some trims
- Engine-related leaks and cooling-system issues, such as coolant leaks or oil leaks
These categories reflect what owners report most frequently across model years and illustrate why prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough inspection and documented maintenance history.
Generation-specific patterns
First-generation XC90 (2002–2014)
These early XC90s are more prone to drivetrain wear and common bleeds of aging components. While generally regarded as durable, the older platform tends to accumulate transmission wear, cooling-system leaks, and electrical quirks over time.
- Transmission issues, including rough shifting or eventual failure
- Coolant and oil leaks from engine areas, with cooling components being a frequent maintenance focus
- Electrical gremlins such as intermittent warning lights, sensor faults, and glitchy infotainment
- Water leaks, particularly around sunroof drains and door seals, leading to interior dampness
- Suspension wear and control-arm or bushings deterioration, contributing to noise or handling concerns
Owners of first-generation XC90s should prioritize a full transmission service history, a check for coolant/oil leak signs, and a thorough electrical-system inspection during buying or prior to extended use.
Second-generation XC90 (2015–present)
The second generation brought updated platforms and powertrains with improvements in refinement and safety features. However, certain electrical and suspension-related faults persist, particularly on higher-mileage examples or older 2015–2018 builds. Wired and software-dependent systems can be especially sensitive to aging modules.
- Electrical system and software-related issues, including sensor faults, warning lights, and infotainment glitches
- Electrical and component faults in optional features (driver-assistance sensors, cameras, and related modules)
- Suspension-related faults, especially with available air suspension or adaptive damping hardware
- Water intrusion or leaks in certain trims, though less common than in the earlier generation
- Occasional engine and cooling-system concerns, including leaks or thermostat-related symptoms
For second-generation XC90s, focusing on the condition of the electrical system, suspension hardware, and documented service history—especially for software updates and recall work—can help reduce surprise repairs later.
Buying and maintenance guidance
Regardless of generation, a prudent buyer should verify maintenance records, check for open recalls, and use a qualified inspector to assess the transmission, cooling system, electrical modules, and suspension hardware. Pay particular attention to recent service on the transmission, battery and alternator health, and any signs of water intrusion in the cabin. Routine maintenance, timely software updates, and addressing recalls can significantly reduce the risk of the most commonly reported XC90 problems.
Summary
Across its history, the Volvo XC90 most commonly presents transmission and drivetrain concerns in older models, with electrical, water-leak, and suspension issues appearing in varying frequencies by generation. The second generation has generally improved reliability, but owners should maintain regular service and verify comprehensive records when buying used. A careful pre-purchase inspection and access to Volvo's recall and software update history are key to mitigating these common problems.