Used Volvo XC 90

What to know before buying: Volvo XC 90

From 1 forum thread and 2 press tests · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The second-generation XC90 is a spacious, safe seven-seat SUV; cabin room is generous, though the third row suits children or short trips best.[1][2]Volvo XC90 II
• The cabin is stylish and well finished, although the leather on seats and doors can wear and crease relatively quickly.[1]one sourceVolvo XC90 II
• Despite its size and weight, the XC90 is easy to drive; Comfort mode remains composed on patched roads, with enough power for confident overtaking.[1]one sourceVolvo XC90 II
• A T8 owner describes the XC90 as very comfortable, roomy, luxurious and powerful, with no difficulty towing a large caravan.[3]one sourceVolvo XC90 II

Typical faults

• Early ERAD rear-drive units in 2016–2017 T8s have documented clutch and bearing wear and metal debris in the oil; whining, knocking and jerky acceleration may result.[2][3]Volvo XC90 II

  2016–2017 · T8 PHEV

• On 2014–2019 2.0 diesels, the plastic intake manifold can overheat and deform, causing drive interruptions and, rarely, fire; a recall was issued.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II

  2014–2019 · Volvo VEA D4204 diesel

• LG high-voltage battery cells in 2020–2022 T8s may short internally and create a fire risk; the recall covers module inspection, replacement where needed and a software update.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II

  2020–2022 · T8 PHEV

• The D5 PowerPulse hose can split from around 80,000 km, sometimes with a loud bang, followed by power loss and limp mode; a revised part is available.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II

  80 000+ km · D5 PowerPulse

• Some 2014–2016 Drive-E B4204T27 T6 engines have acknowledged excessive oil consumption; the remedy is replacement pistons and rings.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II

  2014–2016 · B4204T27 T6

• On 2016–2017 cars, an incorrectly connected air-conditioning drain hose can let water into the cabin and affect electronics, including the airbag system.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II

  2016–2017

• On some 2015–2016 XC90s, the inner layer of the fuel hoses can crack and leak; a fuel smell is the typical warning sign.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II

  2015–2016

Which engine and version to take

• The T5 is the calmer petrol choice: the source recommends it with documented service history, and both listed T5 variants carry less risk than the T8.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II
• The D5 is recommended with documented servicing and completed recalls, but the PowerPulse version requires a hose check and diagnostic fault scan.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II

What to avoid

• The T8 warrants the most caution: it has more listed risks, including costly ERAD failures and a high-voltage battery recall for certain years.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II
• Especially avoid a 2016–2017 T8 without proof of ERAD condition or replacement; early units fail more often, although later versions are less affected.[2][3]Volvo XC90 II

What to check at the inspection

• Test a T8 with a charged battery in EV mode: listen for whining, clicks or knocks, note any jerking, scan for ERAD faults and ask about ERAD oil changes.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II
• For a diesel, verify the intake-manifold/EGR recall by VIN; inspect the manifold, check for coolant loss and scan for EGR faults.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II
• During a D5 test drive, check for smooth low-rpm pull and listen for hissing; scan for P0299 and PowerPulse faults.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II
• On an early T6, check the oil level and top-up history, ask whether the pistons were replaced and watch for blue smoke after idling.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II
• On 2016–2017 cars, inspect the front carpets beneath the dashboard; dampness or odour may indicate a blocked drain issue, and recall status should be checked by VIN.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II
• Check the centre screen response, navigation, cameras and Bluetooth, inspect the anti-glare coating and scan all electronic modules for faults.[2]one sourceVolvo XC90 II

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]iauto.lv — iAuto izmēģina jauno “Volvo XC90” – premium zviedru ... · forum
2. [2]autoradars.lv — Volvo XC90 II (2015+): problems and risks - AutoRadars.lv · press
3. [3]volvo-forum.nl — https://www.volvo-forum.nl/viewtopic.php?t=99175 · press

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