Used Volvo S90

What to know before buying: Volvo S90

From 3 video reviews and 1 press test · updated 23/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The S90 delivers a very comfortable, quiet and relaxing drive; the standard Inscription suspension smooths out bumps well.[3]one sourceSecond generation
• The cabin is high-quality, minimalist and thoughtfully designed, with comfortable seats, pleasant materials and a user-friendly central screen.[3]one sourceSecond generation
• The cabin offers generous space, including in the rear; the boot is roomy although technically smaller than some rivals'.[3]one sourceSecond generation
• The S90 earned five Euro NCAP stars and an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating, scoring strongly in most safety tests.[1]one sourceSecond generation

Typical faults

• The multimedia, climate-control and alarm systems can malfunction; the alarm may even open the windows or unlock the doors.[2]one sourceSecond generation
• The steering rack may begin knocking at around 100,000 km or earlier, although some cars remain symptom-free to roughly 150,000 km.[2]one sourceSecond generation
• On diesels, the DPF can clog quickly, while the EGR valve and pipe require periodic soot cleaning.[2][4]Second generation

  diesel

• Some cars develop brake squeal; adjustment or refitting often failed to cure it, while brake replacement reportedly resolved the issue.[1]one sourceSecond generation
• The eight-speed automatic has reports of jolts, slow response and hard shifts; reprogramming its control unit cured early complaints.[1][2]Second generation
• On PowerPulse diesels, the compressed-air pipe can burst, removing the intended immediate response and causing noticeable turbo lag.[1]one sourceSecond generation

  PowerPulse diesel

• Early petrol engines have reports of high oil consumption caused by a piston-ring fault, as well as oil leaks and failed cooling pipes.[1][4]Second generation

  petrol

• T8 owners have reported battery-pack or ERAD drive-unit failure; warning signs include hesitation when moving off and clunking from the rear.[1]one sourceSecond generation

  T8

Which engine and version to take

• The 190 hp D4 diesel is a sensible motorway choice: it provides enough performance without necessarily paying extra for the D5.[3]one sourceSecond generation
• The diesel engines are generally considered durable when serviced on time and run on good-quality fuel.[1][2][4]Second generation

What to avoid

• Choose an early petrol version only with evidence that piston-ring-related oil consumption has been checked and, where necessary, repaired.[1]one sourceSecond generation
• A T8 is risky without a specialist hybrid-system inspection because battery or ERAD repairs can be very expensive.[1]one sourceSecond generation

What to check at the inspection

• Test every electrical function, including lights, steering-wheel buttons, navigation, seat-belt warnings, multimedia, climate control and the alarm.[1][2]Second generation
• During the test drive, ensure the automatic shifts smoothly without jolts, hesitation or hard changes.[1][2]Second generation
• Listen for squealing under braking and ask whether brake components have previously been replaced because of it.[1]one sourceSecond generation
• On a PowerPulse diesel, check throttle response: pronounced turbo lag can indicate a burst compressed-air pipe.[1]one sourceSecond generation
• On a T6 or T8, listen for supercharger-belt squeal; on the T8 also check for hesitation when moving off and rear clunks.[1]one sourceSecond generation
• Check for a complete service history and timely oil changes; records from a Volvo dealer or specialist are a positive sign.[1][4]Second generation
• Confirm recall completion, including inspection of the front-seat rail fasteners and documentation for applicable factory remedies.[1]one sourceSecond generation

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]The Miles Driven — Volvo S90 / V90 / V90CC buyers guide (2016-2024) Avoid buying a broken Volvo (D4 D5 T5 T6 T8) · ▶ video
2. [2]MasterCarsPro — Volvo S90 2 Problems | Weaknesses of the Used Volvo S90 II · ▶ video
3. [3]High Peak Autos — Should You Buy a VOLVO S90? (Test Drive & Review) · ▶ video
4. [4]startechprestige.com.au — Volvo S90 & V90 Common Problems · press

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