2003 to 2014 Volvo XC90 Buyers guide - How to buy the right one

[@gordonbrown5340]

I designed the XC90 first prototype in Paris for the Detroit Show.

[@HMNLT]

Seriously?! I have so many questions for you

[@incomingshell3268]

Great car !!!!

[@theathlete898]

Is it wow great

[@beastman.330]

Nicely designed car .it has aged very well.

[@incomingshell3268]

@Jim Bob Very heavy safe car, The only fault I don't like is the 6 cylinder version had substantial transmission problems and I think this put a lot of people off, 5 cylinder version didn't have the same problem...I don't know about the V8. Also very heavy on tyres and brakes but then you'd have to expect that given they are so heavy....It's a shame they weren't designed with a conventional engine configuration and rear wheel drive with haldex on the front wheels and a duel range gearbox....would have been awesome......

[@phishphood423]

Additional info/corrections for prospective buyers: 1. The tail lights with the LED bar did not show up till WAY after '07 -- 2011 I believe. '07 was when they switched to square indicator lights from the round ones on '06 and prior. That was also when the upper edge of the rear bumper first became painted, along with the painted mirror caps that have indicator lights. 2. The "alarm module" you mention is not actually the alarm -- just the siren. The battery in the module fails, leaks, and destroys the circuit board. You'll probably know about this BEFORE the message shows up, as it makes the alarm siren prone to randomly triggering itself. A software flash can remove the alarm function (and thus the message) entirely for cheaper than replacing the siren if that is your style. 3. Clogged sunroof drains (the prime cause of the sunroof issue) is much worse than just failed a-pillar fabric. If left unaddressed it leads to water accumulating in the footwells, often taking expensive modules like the yaw rate sensor or floor-mounted amplifier with it, not to mention causing mildew in the carpet foam. 4. Some XC90s were prone to a leaking plenum as well -- the bit right under the wipers. This led to water intrusion on the CEM (central electronic module) -- a big big expensive deal. Keep an eye out for damp front footwells at all times. 5. Control arm bushings (and those on the rear trailing arms though this is less dangerous) are not solid rubber -- they have air gaps on two sides. Once they crack, the car stops tracking straight. This is a legitimate safety issue and a ~$800 bill to fix. 6. The official Volvo timing belt interval is 120K mi or six years, not 80-90K. The whiteblock 5/6 cyl engines are interference motors though, so best to change it early (along with idlers/water pump/tensioner since those are actually what causes belt failure) unless you want valve on piston contact. Same goes for the 2.9L T6 -- early is better than late. The 2.9L T6 is NOT the same engine as the 3.0L T6 (B6304T2 and B6304T4) offered in the P3 platform cars like the later XC70. Very, very different. That motor has more in common with the 3.2L (B6324S) and has a timing chain, but was never offered in the XC90 sadly. 7. PCV SYSTEM -- YOU FORGOT THE PCV SYSTEM. On the 2.5T and T6 cars, the crankcase breather system is incredibly prone to clogging with oil sludge. This causes excessive pressure and can lead to burning oil, blown cam seals, etc. Replacing it involves removing the intake manifold. It is easily a day of DIY if you are not experienced, and a solid $1K at a shop. Every single "whiteblock" Volvo motor suffers from this issue. You can test by putting a glove over the oil filler cap with the engine running. If it fills with air, PCV is clogged. Using synthetic oil and changing regularly helps prevent this. Some cars go well over 150K without needing a PCV service, others are totally clogged at 80K. Change. Your. Oil. 8. The evap system vacuum hoses on the 2.5T and T6 motors are made of a non-reinforced rubber which likes to disintegrate. Cheap fix with silicone hose but hard to get to some of them under the intake manifold. 9. I have only seen one door actuator fail out of the three P2 Volvos I have owned. The interior piece of the door comes off quite easily on the XC90 -- no need to remove the door. Very simple fix, used parts widely available. 10. FRONT SPRING SEATS AND STRUT TOP BUSHINGS -- this is a MAJOR failure point on XC90s. Ironically, the struts usually last longer than these components do, but replacing them essentially means removing the struts, making it sensible to replace both at the same time. Complete failure of a strut top mount can send the top of the strut through the hood. Looking at them visually can reveal cracks before this happens. Failing spring seats usually results in a creaky front end. 11. Power steering racks in the early models are prone to developing play in the pinion gearset. There are two types, speed adaptive assist and regular fixed assist. Speed adaptive is wonderful but was a premium option. 12. Ignition coils on the 2.5T and T6 like to go bad around 150K usually and are somewhat expensive. If you don't change spark plugs every 30-40K (OE Volvo plugs use copper electrodes I believe), they fail even sooner, causing a severe misfire. Whiteblocks are picky about plugs -- mine ran terribly after I switched to NGK Iridium. 13. The 4T65EV transmission used in the T6 can be helped along significantly by performing regular fluid changes (about 30-40K miles, but hell, ALL auto gearboxes should get this treatment) and switching to synthetic fluid. An additional transmission cooler will help extend fluid life. $45-100 on a "shift kit" from Transgo or Intense Racing will also help the 4T65 live a much longer life by shortening shift times substantially, thus reducing clutch and band wear. Otherwise the T6 is a superb motor, potentially my favorite of all (though the 2.5L has a soft spot in my heart but is slow at SH** without some mods and a tune). 14. Early V8 models also suffered from occasional valve body issues with the TF80-SC gearbox. Overall the XC90 has been a peach to own in my experience. This isn’t meant to scare you off, just inform you/correct some issues with the video. The XC90 needs regular maintenance -- do NOT BUY one thinking that they are "cheap luxury sounding cars." Better than a similarly aged BMW, Mercedes, or Audi? Probably. Cheaper if you have some mechanical acumen as well. Likely cheaper parts than other luxury euro brands too, but regrettably many XC90s lived pretty neglected lives as family haulers and got beat to hell, denied the maintenance that they needed. If you get a good one, prepare to be blessed by a pretty trouble-free car. It is unlikely that many or all of these issues will manifest at the same time, and as long as the previous owners took care of the car, many of these service items (suspension stuff, timing belt, etc.) have likely already been replaced. Just buy a well looked after XC90 with service history, you’ll be fine. I’ve averaged less than $750 a year in maintenance, which is so much cheaper than a new car.

[@minorthreat5276]

I have a -12 xc70 w nonturbo 6cyl and debating selling to get xc90 bc of bigger hauling capacity. Pbly a '11-'14. Do you rec against this given the xc70 is running fine and everything works at 145k?

[@phishphood423]

@@minorthreat5276 IMO the P3 XC70 is generally a nicer car in terms of interior comfort/ride/quality. The XC90 was essentially the exact same car from 2003-2014, minus some minor interior/exterior changes, tech upgrades and different drivetrain options. It gets pretty terrible gas mileage too, averaging about 18 combined MPG, 16 (frankly less) in the city, and barely 22 on the highway. XC70 gets about 25 mpg on the highway. Plus it’s the same engine in a car about 800 lbs heavier…so that’s a major downside if you care about performance. If you take the storage capacity specs at face value, the XC90 nets you about 13 more cubic feet of cargo space, from 72.1 in the XC70 to about 85 cubic feet in the XC90. If you don’t already have a roof box, this capacity difference could easily be made up by adding one, they can often be found used for fractions of their original price. For those reasons, the XC90 feels like more of a sidegrade to me and in some ways actually a downgrade. Sure, there are a few perks, but overall you are getting an older platform and it shows IMO.

[@minorthreat5276]

@@phishphood423 thx a lot for your response. Yesterday I was driving my xc70 and the ac was great it was running smoothly and I used it to unload some stuff into storage before washing it. It has many options that i value as well as a trailwr hitch for my bike rack. Realize it's a great car and a little extra capacity is not worth it. Your message helps me to feel confident the right thing to do is to keep it. If it craps out on me later maybe I'll consider the bigger 90.

[@zzoinks]

Oh man, is the Pcv really $1k to replace? I thought it would be like $450. I don't positively remember what my mechanic quoted for the Pcv, or if I just misremembering him quoting me at all.

[@zzoinks]

Another thing is once my S60's engine got close to 200k miles, or perhaps the age of the car (~15+ years old), we had to replace leaky oil seals (maybe this is typical for any engine) And also the cam hubs which are part of the variable valve timing may need to be replaced depending on their condition, but they are very expensive from Volvo (apparently only Volvo sells them). I don't remember exactly but I think it cost us $400-600 each just for parts and my car had two of them, and because they had some play/wear visible, they would likely have leaked oil in the future. So of course it makes sense for us to replace when we're already in the engine bay and it doesn't cost much labor to install them. The new cam hubs should last another 200k miles if the engine isn't driven hard, my mechanic said.

[@jsmyth024]

Protect this man at all cost. You are invaluable, sir.

[@HMNLT]

Best comment ever. Thank you kind stranger!

[@psv1600]

@@HMNLT best answer ever too !

[@jerilynnwilson930]

I bought a 2011 and I love it. I am 68 years old and never had a love affair with any vehicle, until now. Best car on the road (or off) if you ask me.

[@Bumblebee76]

The safest tank in the world. Volvo for life

[@HMNLT]

Agreed!

[@edijares1543]

My 2003 tank protected my wife 5 years ago then I replaced that tank with another one.

[@Masscassnot]

I named My 05 Tank.

[@stuartmacdonald9299]

Love my XC C90 D5 brilliant 👍🇬🇧

[@ngeymojoshua1796]

.

[@universalassociates6857]

Dr asks her patient, ‘do you exercise?’ Patient responds ‘Yes, I climb in and out of the third row seat of my Volvo XC90 several times a day - a vigorous exercise routine!’

[@legambaz]

Unbelievably good understanding of this car. Very informative.

[@hectorvillalpando3412]

Ayfbwijbymkowy

[@michaelpina1858]

The XC90 LED tail lights were from 2013 and 14 , Volvo changed the design in 2007 , led lights came in 2013 , the 3.2 is an in-line 6 , not a V6 The fender flares varied with the options, starting with the V8 when it was introduced, but yes , they are great vehicles , I have a 2009 3.2 AWD, since new, I also have a 2007 V8 Sport, love it , used to have a 2008 3.2 , good luck with yours , they are safe too!!

[@j.b.9581]

Hi, I viewed this video five months ago . . came back to revisit it today. And this is a comprehensive review!! Well Done!!

[@ceeclaire6544]

I have a 3.2; had it for 11yrs. I have a mechanic who specializes in volvos. I've been extremely fortunate. I take her in for regularly scheduled maintenance and she's been good to me as I am good to her.

[@sergioromero9932]

I have over 325,000 miles on my white 05 xc90 T6 AWD. I love the vehicle. Some minor issues but it's a great looking SUV and safe and comfortable. I want to customize mine.

[@konstyantyngarkusha2733]

Thanks for this video man! Definitely saving it for future use. I’m driving 5 hours this morning to pick up my first xc90, wish me luck!

[@HMNLT]

How did it go?

[@martyjackson4806]

I have a 2005 with the 2.5T. Just did the oil change at 395000km last week! Later this week I plan to tow my 26' sailboat about 800km. Great car! Looking for another to replace my 06 V50 (Garbage! It's a FORD with Volvo badges.) Tip: When the sunroof leaks sown the A pillar. Clear the blockage and lengthen the drain hoses by about 1.25". They shrink over time!

[@samwinchester61]

2005 t5 with 239,ooo plenty of life left in this engine.. thanks for the tip!

[@jacquelynripley3801]

I have a 2005 2.5 t as well with 198,000 on in but she needs exhaust work and a steering rack a piñon, cv joint, and back springs. so I am going to sell her and get a 2008 that doesn't need anywork so they guy says woith 200k on it. and hoping it last this long.

[@НеЗнам-в4г]

have you had any transmission problems along the way?

[@davidwalsh9850]

In 2018 I bought a 2006 Volvo XC90. It need very little work and owning it for 2yrs now it has needed very little maintenance. I WILL buy another Volvo. Mine has been a good family 👪 vehicle.

[@terminal-velocity111]

Brother, such a detailed and well researched review. Very grateful for this post as I am looking for an XC90. Best wishes from Edinburgh, Scotland.

[@baseballtrading3731]

I just bought my first XC90 (2011 R-Design) mostly in part to this video - thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@noyes9]

I’m looking to buying one tell me more about yours! Please 🙏

[@tour_saar1219]

just bought one with 270k miles from a us veteran here in germany, so many questions were answered by this video, e.x the leaking sunroof thing, i never wouldve guessed its just a little thing to fix that, thank you for the video and great channel !

[@misterjones7929]

.I have a 2002 XC70 and am thinking of upgrading to an XC90, so thank you for this very helpful overview.

[@HMNLT]

Glad it was helpful!

[@trakteren]

The 3.2-liter engine (B6324S) is an inline-6, not a V6. Other than that, great video! 👍🏻

[@phishphood423]

Also, the tail lights with the LED bar did not show up till WAY after '07. '07 was when they switched to square indicator lights from the round ones on '06 and prior.

[@penguinandpandasftw6741]

the way I’m watching this AFTER I’ve got the car😭😭😭 but I’ve been loving it so far

[@giorgivaramishvili8235]

One comment Mate: T6 had 2.8 liter Twin Turbo engine, with timing belt. As for the 3.2, it has inline 6 cylinder engine, not V6. The only V type engine was Yamaha V8, 4.4 liter. Overall, great video, thanks!

[@HMNLT]

Yes! Made some errors with configuration on displacement. Will do better to review my videos before uploading. Thank you for the constructive approach!

[@justink7849]

2.9 twin turbo but you’re correct about the other corrections

[@JDMHaze]

Your comment should be pinned. thank you for that because I get the I 6/V6 mixed up

[@josmem25]

I'm a Subaru fan, therefore I'm thinking about start with Volvo XC90 as my first Volvo, great informative video

[@macky375]

2 things to note For alarm service required message, there a software which deletes the siren from the car and will get rid of the message. So if you dont need a alarm, you can do that rather than replacing the SCM. You are able to just get the sticker of the lettering for the steering wheel emblem rather than replacing the airbag unit.

[@glennsanford5836]

+9

[@zzoinks]

But any way your driver's airbag may be recalled. I got mine replaced under recall, so the new airbag has a new emblem. If it's peeling then I would assume it's the old airbag that needs to be replaced

[@stuartmacdonald9299]

Just perches a Volvo XC90 D5 2006 with 120.000 on clock absolutely spot on and capable of road . Thank you for your time and consideration 🇬🇧👈🇺🇸👈♥️👍

[@RichieRouge206]

Such a shame you guys in America didn’t get the wonder D5 models, really make these tanks make sense. Such a smooth and powerful unit. I keep getting the anti-skid message from time to time. We have VIDA but no faults are showing That wooden steering wheel is rare, especially with the cream airbag, I have the same wheel in my V70

[@bazodee2]

Saw a cheap T6 and was thinking of buying it. Glad i watched this vid first.

[@janiejohnson5552]

Just like mine! I love my Volvo XC90

[@samwinchester61]

Mine has the sexier multi spoke rims..love the Ice White with "Stadium" colir interior! Beautiful car in winter

[@DriveTimeDIY]

Excellent work, sir! I have an 2006 T5 and I've been pretty happy. Rear bearings burned up at 50 & 70K but other than that, no major repairs with 200K miles and going.

[@HMNLT]

Thats great news, im looking at finding a v8 in 2009-2011

[@matthewhittaker]

@@HMNLT How can you tell if a 2008 V8 will be good or bad with respect to the counterbalance issue you mentioned? Is it based on manufacturing date? Or do you just have to wait until it granades?

[@HMNLT]

@@matthewhittaker production date, you'll want one made late 2007 and onwards. Check the vin label on the door but it's not a 100% guarantee you won't have an issue just far less likely

[@woodstocknun]

timeless design, looks better than todays SUV.

[@HMNLT]

I agree, I do prefer the facelifted ones from 2009+ though. The body cladding is a bit offputting when not color matched to the rest of the car.

[@cxf1172]

I love my XC90 and am at 200,000 + miles. 2nd XC90 but both as well as my V70 wagon all went through oil. Didn't appear to be burning and no signs of leakage but consistently checking the oil. All three also had ignition key issues, just wonky.

[@majorpuggington]

Just bought my pop a 3.2awd today. What a tank.

[@HMNLT]

Love these things. So solid.

[@JulezWinnfield]

Love comparing the evolution of this model vs my 2017 XC90.

[@brly4542]

I have an 08' xc90 with a sunroof, 286000kms and the sun roof have never leaked a drop. I do use it almost everyday in the spring, summer and fall

[@l1ckyd0g]

You can also fold the front passenger seat flat forward, which is brilliant for very long loads. Small catches at the bottom of the seat, accessed from the rear passenger footwell.

[@NNAMDIULOMA]

Thanks for your insightful talk that is well detailled, have been longing to own one, and now is the time

[@richkayce]

Great video. I learned one or more things from the Volvo XC90. The XC90 is my 3rd Volvo cars in 6 years. I would like more of your videos on XC90 2004 model. Thank you and 👍.

[@ehcs]

A very informative video. Great help as I am looking for a XC90 as a daily transport, your video is a great guidance to me. Many thanks! Love to see more videos from you.

[@pgbenson]

Well done. You only missed the Yaw Sensor which rusts and creates anti-skid messages. This is common with blocked sunroof drains as the water gathers under the amp where the yaw sensor is.

[@shiningwhitelight9710]

I think that might be my issue... Thank you!

[@tedrichardsondrummer]

Great video! Very helpful and informative. I own a white ‘08 with a 3.2 with almost 200k. Still love it.

[@mizrahimjew9351]

Me too!! First time Volvo owner at 107,800 miles. Best vehicle I’ve own so far🕎

[@ericolivomartinez3674]

yo recomiendo este vehículo Volvo lo uso desde 1966 el p1800s fue el primer modelo que compre de volvo del 130 240 244 al s80 s60 s70 v70 y por último la xc90 la que uso empezando por el año 2004 hasta el 20015

[@2good2often]

have a 2010 V8 Executive Package .. just 60,000 Km .. lovely car .. mileage is not much different than with the 6 . when you need to pass a car on freeway . lots of punch when you need it .. Sweedspeed Forums can give you alot of help with maintnance and money saving ideas .. Volvo dealers are very expensive places to take your car !

[@HMNLT]

Robin, the forums are definitely a huge help.

[@paulsven7923]

I have 2011 V8 executive with 220,000 km, have it since 1 year old, the only thing I had to fix was a pulley bearing and couple of wheel bearings, bulletproof

[@patagualianmostly7437]

The last place you will meet me would be at a Volvo Dealers. There are knowledgeable people out there who will look after your Volvo (and your wallet) with confidence. Just be sure they subscribe to the official Volvo updates....makes them charge a little more...but not like Volvo Dealerships. I refuse to pay for the prats in suits.

[@bigdogbob845]

Just picked up a Really Clean 2003 S80 with 100k miles and a fresh trans, paid $1,500 for it from my neighbor. Think I got a good deal.

[@burningmanmike]

Thank you so much. This video was very educational, even for a guy with 4 Volvos, and years of experience with them!

[@phronesismeister]

Extremely insightful video. You are very well-spoken and informed. Thanks for posting

[@HMNLT]

Thank you for the kind words! Really appreciate it!

[@philiptabor2556]

Looking at buying one of these if they are anywhere close to the xc60 in terms of safety I don't think you could die in one. I once was hit by a dodge van that was doing 95 in a side impact in a xc60 both myself and my mother walked away from that accident without a scratch. Volvo for life 👍

[@brly4542]

Even now the first gen xc90 scores well in modern crash tests. It was one of, if not the first vehicle to pass the small overlap front end test

[@lindsayprice8411]

I have the 07, 4.4 V8, sport.... only 140k miles! It’s a beast, love it!! But not the slipping/overheating transmission. I need help and the Volvo dealership acted like they knew nothing of “my rare engine/trans”. & no one else wants to touch a Volvo. I’m at a loss. So sad. I want to keep this vehicle more than anything.... fast, tough, & safe!! Great video tho Sir!!

[@stannesclose]

The gearbox is from ford powershift gearbox. Not good and at all gearboxes do fail

[@HMNLT]

Find an independent mechanic that specializes in volvo and see what they can do. Cannot maintain this vehicle at a dealer, it will make you broke.

[@lindsayprice8411]

HMNLT ... BROKE...YOU’RE SO RIGHT!!! But I can’t seem to find anyone around Fort Worth Texas that specializes in Volvo’s... so I gave up and called the Volvo dealership last Thursday. They don’t even call me back!! So frustrating!!

[@HMNLT]

lindsay price ill see if I can find someone in ft worth. I have people in my network that run jeep dealerships there.

[@lindsayprice8411]

THANKS FOR ALL THE HELP!! Y’all are AWESOME!!!🙏🏻

[@Parknest]

Volvo also offered a 2.4 litre 5 cylinder D5 diesel engine. I don't think it was available in the US. The Aisin transmissions are better than the GM ones. The most common causes of the anti-skid message are the steering wheel sensor (located in the clock spring), the yaw sensor and a poor connection to the ABS module. The parking brake shoes can be a nightmare to adjust properly especially with aftermarket rear brake parts. Volvo brought out an adjustable H piece to remedy this. The thermostat is a pain to replace on the D5 engine requiring the power steering pump, the alternator and aircon compressor to be removed (no need to disconnect the aircon pipes thankfully). Injectors on the D5 engine can be prone to failure.

[@bedandbreakfastfan7088]

Miss my 05 xc90. Rear-ended at a stop by someone going 45mph. Had 4 passengers and no one seriously hurt. Looking for another one.

[@jenlaird1gmail]

I am on my second 2005 XC90. 180K+ miles, and it is a dream. Yes, they are quirky, but charming.

[@vteckid82]

The 2.5T with a tune is the way to go. I have a V8 and it's nice, but if you're going to work on it yourself it's pretty frustrating at times. The engine bay is really tight. Parts are a lot more expensive as well. Some repairs are engine out only as well adding to the cost of ownership.

[@patagualianmostly7437]

I agree... Just bought an '09, V8.... Loving it to bits...but I must confess to some sleepless nights thinking about what "might" go wonky! I'm doing all the preventive maintenance I can at the moment: Did a proper transmission flush recently...not cheap because of the amount of fluid required. But I was not about to allow the dealer to do a "drain...refill" and charge me for the real deal.... Been there. Done that. Never again. I'm not a high miler....so fuel consumption is not too much of an issue. Nice to let it rip from time to time..enjoy driving again..that's what it is all about. Stay Safe.

[@vteckid82]

@@patagualianmostly7437 Absolutely awesome engine, keep an eye out on the timing chain cover. Mine was leaking but I added some AT205 re-seal and it slowed the leak down. It's a great engine with few flaws but the ones that come up are a pain.

[@GGN-92]

Thanks man for this very simple and efficient review - take care.

[@oreilly1237878]

Possably the best SUV on the market.

[@RichieRouge206]

Great cars. Such a shame about the GM gearbox on the T6. Excellent video

[@HMNLT]

Yes, the T6 is an absolute pleasure, unfortunately the gearbox is the achilles heel and failures are inevitable.

[@justink7849]

Unfortunately this ideal that those transmissions are no good caught on like a wildfire. They are just not serviced by most owners, as they’re meant to be, so they failed. A properly serviced 4T65e is a fantastic transaxle, and very durable.

[@universalassociates6857]

This is an extremely well-done video. Very informative. It will help me make my buying decision.

[@tempest957]

Superb great video and very useful! Love from the UK

[@PetePanaia]

Well done sir! Originally I was hunting for a 2016-2018 XC90 Inscription. Sadly they are still way out of my price range! However back in September 2020 I did find and purchase a used 2013 XC90 R Design. It has approximately 114,000 miles on it. You video confirms a lot of my own findings. I am really enjoying this vehicle. It's a great value for the price! Thanks for the time and effort you put into making this video! Subscribed.

[@minorthreat5276]

I have a 12 xc70 and thinking of exchanging for xc90 from 2012-2014 bc bigger hauling capacity. Any recs or advice? I like the better seats btw in the R design

[@joshscott6741]

What did you pay for it? How is holding up?

[@minorthreat5276]

I can't remembr what I paid now. But holding up really well. Runs perfect. Did full service last year and always do reg oil changes. I'm hesitant to change to xc90 since this xc70 has been so good to me.

[@abbashussain6390]

V8 is a beautiful beast but thirsty, the 2.9 had nightmare transmission problems, the 3.2 is sluggish the 2.5T is a great all-rounder bullet proof and a good daily cruiser

[@HMNLT]

Abbas Hussain yup! The 2.5 is beast of burden! Thanks for watching the video!

[@flashpan272]

That V8 was the first V8 to meet ULEV II emission requirements. Cleanest V8 at that time: www.media.volvocars.com/global/en-gb/media/pressreleases/5015

[@lindsayprice8411]

I have the 07 4.4 V8. It’s a beast, love it. But not the slipping transmission. I need help and the Volvo dealership acted like they knew nothing of “my rare engine/trans”. & no one else wants to touch a Volvo. I’m at a loss. So sad.

[@ggleisshit]

@Immortal probably means workhorse - ie will keep working till it dies

[@tom101177]

Really helpful video. Thanks. I bought a 2003 D5 from a dealer with 168k on the clock for very little money. Now at 205k it’s been brilliant with very few problems. Some of the initial issues I had were covered by the 6month warranty. The biggest expense was an accidental misfuel (not by me) but you wouldn’t know that now by the way it drives. Servicing is a bit pricey but it’s so much car for the money. Even tyres at around £80 each are not bad at all. I plan to just run it into the ground and will retire it’s rather than spending a lot and would definitely buy another. I love the look of the new XC90s but they are still big money.

[@vovovovan]

Very nice breakdown! I know just about everything there is to know about 2.4/2.5l motors, but it was nice to learn something new about all the other options

[@1manarmyguzman629]

07 2.5 awd xc90 decent?

[@Udaykiran-nv3wq]

There’s an xc90 2.5I with 300000+ kms on it. It’s a Ocean race limited edition. I am thinking of buying it. Do you think that the engine might still have a life? Please suggest me

[@That_white_volvo]

​@@1manarmyguzman629 2006 was the last year for the 5 cylinder engine

[@terrificspokesman7416]

Here in the UK we only have AWD. And the engines we got was a 2.4 5 cylinder turbo diesel, 2.9 inline 6 and 4.4 V8

[@HMNLT]

We needed the diesel here state side.

[@terrificspokesman7416]

@@HMNLT I had a diesel but its because diesel is way more popular in the UK than US. The one I had was a diesel. It was a good engines just a bit slow and a bit loud if you drove fast but it was surprisingly quiet at low revs and because it was a diesel you could keep it at low revs all day plus fuel economy was very good

[@justink7849]

This guy did an alright job on the XC90. First off the “3.0” is actually a 2.9L inline twin turbo. The 3.2 is not a “V6” it is inline. And the they both use timing belts as well. As for someone bashing on the T6 transmission for being no hood as well as the poorly informed guy in the video... The 4 speed gm transmission in the T6 is a fantastic transmission but was never properly serviced by the majority of owners. Every 60k-70k kilometres the transmission oil and filter are meant to be changed. Most people neglected this service interval. It’s no different than not changing engine oil. If properly serviced the GM 4T65e transmission is just as good as any other Volvo transmission if not better. Aesin 5speeds are no better. If you need to know if I’m qualified to make these statements, I’ve been a licensed automotive technician for 15+ years and have forgotten more about cars than most people will learn in their lifetime.

[@HMNLT]

Justin is right, the 3.0 is actually a 2.9, and the 3.2 is an inline six engine, I try only to provide what information I acquire via firsthand experience or what I learn from the copious hours spent reading forums regarding issues from owners, I do make mistakes and try to correct any misinformation. However the 3.2L does not have a timing belt but rather a chain. As for the transmission in the twin turbo models, a quick google search of GM 465TE transmission will send you down a bottomless pit of owners who have nothing but problems no matter the level of maintenance. All that aside, I appreciate you leaving the feedback and correcting me where I am wrong Justin. Thank you

[@phishphood423]

Lol I love this. First, the 3.2L has a timing chain. Second, while I agree that fluid changes are essential for the 4T65, it is a known issue even in cars that have been properly serviced. It was designed for use in passenger sedans, not hooked up to 280 ft-lb at 1800 RPM and a nearly 3-ton car. It has a bad rep in many many segments of the automotive community, not just Volvo, thanks to its incredibly lackadaisical shift speed which leads to excessive clutch pack wear. Then you start throwing max adapt codes or slipping between gears. In higher power applications you get hard part failure -- namely snapped input shafts. In fact, Triple Edge Performance, leading specialists on rebuilding the 4T65, recommend an upgraded input shaft as soon as you approach 300 WHP. Volvo was concerned enough about this that the T6 is heavily torque limited in first and second gear. Furthermore, there is a Volvo specific issue related to the 4T65 in the T6 -- the transmission "cooler" is actually part of the radiator, which does two things: 1. Bakes the trans fluid (and internals) to death once the engine is up to temp. 2. Sometimes allows coolant into the trans fluid. Bad. Bye-bye trans. Your best bet is a shift kit and regular fluid changes, plus no WOT kickdowns or standing starts except when absolutely necessary. I have a T6 XC90 -- the current 4T65 has about 90K miles on it and she is...hanging in there. I don't hate it as much as most people do, in fact, I normally defend the T6, but the trans is pretty garbaggio -- the gearing sucks for the XC90 too, as it only has four speeds the gears are LONG as hell (hence the slow 0-60). The AW55-50 is a much better gearbox in this application. Early years were prone to spot weld failures on the washer attached to the B4 servo cover leading to 2-3 shift flare and banging. This was generally taken care of within a year, and the part is $20. Some had valve body failure, but that's about a $400 part and a day of labor for a DIYer. It will last SUBSTANTIALLY longer on average, even if the fluid is not changed. Friends in the Volvo groups who have 2.5T cars are almost all still rocking their original AW55-50s. The few beleaguered T6 owners like me are ALL on transmission #2. There was even a successful class action for it.

[@greek0818]

Extremely good review! I will be buying a 2010 XC90 tomorrow. :)

[@Parknest]

The cause of my anti-skid issue was the DEM (differential module) that is located by the Haldex coupling on the rear differential. Mine was beyond repair so I had to buy a reconditioned module. I also had to have the CEM (Central Electrical Module) repaired. ABS problems are usually a sensor or the ABS ring. If jjust one parking sensor fails, it will take the whole system down. I had a faulty sensor and I just replaced it with a genuine used sensor and it has been fine ever since. Air quality sensors are prone to failure. The only fix is to fit a genuine Volvo sensor. They're expensive new but genuine used ones are a lot cheaper.

[@MrTommyboy68]

I have an 06 XC 90 with the 5 cylinder turbo. I bought it around 6 years ago and promptly had a trans service, tune up, oil change, coolant flush, etc by a Volvo independent mechanic shop. My issues have been minor (passenger door lock actuator ($400 to $600) and just very recently my 6 disc CD changer pooped out. There is a company that remans them (and as I live in BFE Montana, the nearest and ONLY Volvo dealer is in Billings, 4 hour one way trip). I am due for a trans service (no problems, just like to keep up on maintenance issues) and I DON'T trust the local "quicky lube" joints because these are a special breed of car. My water pump just started leaking (timing belt was done at 123,000 and I am just over 198,000) and a local shop is aware of these cars and has done a few, but it's still $1200. Besides the usual brakes and rotors, oil changes it has been a wonderful car. Much as I would love to get a newer one, the used care prices are crazy and I am now retired so I need to keep this going. I got a winter beater 88 GMC Jimmy given to me (because the heater wouldn't shut off) so I park the Volvo in a friends garage, even though I feel so much safer in it, but if I get smacked by one of our many underinsured/uninsured drivers and the air bags pop, it would be a total and I would never get a replacement for what the insurance company would give. I am a volunteer fireman and the running joke is if I ever get whacked, I will probably be fine, but the guys will play Hell getting me out, so I will calmly sit there, tell them where to cut and pull and hand me a cup of coffee while they work. Great video touching on what to look for.

[@juli8vdberg562]

Most beautiful suv cars ever made

[@niiardey]

Wow ! Amazing review! Good quality! Nice footage and quirks! Its really like im experiencing the car! And good info! Subbed!

[@Katsina1]

Love Volvo... I have owned 8 .. 6 s60 and 2 xc90... I have the v8 now.. it's fast smooth and a awesome truck. Yah yah yah yah... I call it a truck.. if you have a prob that's ur problem. It like gas but it's worth it

[@SCAMPL6]

I am about to buy a Volvo 2005 but i've seen a lot of volvos with trans issues most of them comes with the 2.5t engine so i am hesitating about my purchase, cheers from Guatemala!

[@schumi9xwdc]

I have an 07, and Love it

[@Jademyheart]

What a marvelous upload 👍💯 Clear, Concise and straight to the point,..

[@HMNLT]

Thank you very much!

[@psv1600]

perfect video, full of good informations, well edited and never felt boring. Thanks a lot

[@geoffreygoodyear3746]

Thinkink of buying a 2010 xc90 so this vid was a great help, thanx man👍🙏

[@HMNLT]

Glad I could help

[@Bumblebee76]

Is better from 2012 up becouse have Volvo on call system

[@ajfriedman4495]

absolutely amazing video stellar work cannot thank you enough for your time and effort.

[@darnedmallard8924]

Nice video altogether! In the beginning you mentioned that the backlights were revised in 2007 to continuous led stripes. The led backlight upgrade didn't happen until 2012. But you are not wrong! The whole car including the backlights were facelifted in 2007 only not to led :) ALSO the engines are all inline engines besides the v8. In other words the naturally aspirated 3.2 is not a v6 as you stated. What comes to reliability the 3.2 NA engine (straight six) is the most reliable option due to NA simplicity and low tune of the engine. It also shares it's drivetrain with the V8 so transmission problems in regularly serviced 3.2 examples should not be an issue. Of course the later model the vehicle is the more time the manufacturer has had time to fix common reliability issues. Therefore, In my opinion, the 3.2 from 2008 onward is the best choice.

[@MountainParameters]

That's interesting thanks for the info. Just before this video I watched one where the owner of a 3.2 l XC90 said he would not recommend that trim, but he did not seem to pin down a real reason for it (kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zpi0Y3iZgayeiq8). It seems from watching this however that the 3.2 version of the XC90 may be one of the better ones.

[@alexlevy322]

Great review and fantastic information. I'm currently in the hunt for one. Thanks for all the things to look out for.

[@phamer8217]

Good review 👍🏿 well detailed. Do you still own. The xc90 ?

[@knives01ng]

Thank you for this video! It was super helpful, going to go look at an xc90 v8 today.

[@HMNLT]

How did it turn out?

[@brettkirkpatrick464]

Hugely informative video produced by someone who actually owns what they review. Some thoughts I might add because I have a 2005 XC90 2.5T AWD 5 passenger: While a safe and solid vehicle, it is very pricey to maintain. As mentioned, the tires will wear fast, but also the front brakes (heavy vehicle-no surprise), expect 30k miles out of pads and rotors. In 5 years of ownership and at 138k miles right now, my XC90 needed: starter, angle gear, transmission mount, brake vacuum pump, both front headlight assemblies, rear main seal, alarm module, fuel pressure sensor, thermostat. These repairs add up to about $8k because they were done by the dealer. Things that need attention but are waiting: Right Rear interior door latch inoperative, all speakers slowly dying, B Pillar fabric chewed by seatbelt buckle on drivers side. Would I buy the vehicle again? Maybe. It has never left us sit anywhere. My wife likes it, and it is what my daughter rides to daycare in. The high cost of ownership just irks me. Great video!

[@ggleisshit]

why did you do non warranty repairs at dealer? Also how much cheaper are low cost tires and brakes? Not sure if 19 and 20 inch tires can be had low cost

[@brettkirkpatrick464]

@@ggleisshit Thanks for the question and hopefully this answer will explain my logic. All repairs and replacement parts installed at Volvo dealers carry a lifetime replacement warranty (except for wear items--brakes, rotors, wipers). They do this so that customers will bring their cars in for service. It is also beneficial to me because Volvos have the same reoccurring problems, so after the part fails again, it's on them to replace it....at their cost. Also, my local Volvo independent mechanic is 95% the expense of the dealer and all of their work (when they are honest about it) only carries a two year warranty. Another great reason to use the dealer is that they stand behind their work. I recently had some work done on my V70R and they managed to rip off wiring to the 4C struts (which go for $1200 each their cost). I immediately returned the car to them and they replaced the strut no charge. To answer your question about brakes: I do not recommend buying low cost brakes for the XC90. You can and they will fit, but they do not work as Volvo intended. Most replacement brakes are steel rotors and semimetallic pads. Volvo uses what is called a composite rotor, which acts as a second friction surface. The rotor works with the pads to improve stopping power and brake feel. Steel rotors only give 75% of the stopping power. If you've driven an XC90 with factory rotors and pads, and then one with steel rotors, you will feel the difference immediately. It's most apparent in the initial bite of the pads. You can get cheaper factory pads and rotors from FCP Euro with a lifetime warranty on wear. I did buy the cheapest rear brakes I could find for my V70R from RockAuto for $7, while the factory pads were $75 if that helps. Oh, and the brake feel is terrible. I'm going to replace everything with factory parts from FCP when the cheap stuff wears out. Tires: Because I own a 2005, the largest tire size they ever ran on my model was 17", I can't suggest any 19's or 20's tires-but the price gap between something cheap and expensive would be about $50 per tire. I have had good luck with Continentals, but that's not saying much as the the XC90 gets driven probably 8,000 miles per year. I actually had to replace a set of tires due to dry rot and not wear. The bill for four Continentals was $1000. Again this was at the dealership and it was a state inspection item and I didn't feel like picking up the XC90 and getting tires put on elsewhere and then dropping it back off to complete the inspection.

[@hxhdfjifzirstc894]

About brakes... it's very simple to change pads and rotors on disc brakes. If you buy the parts at Auto Zone, they give you free replacements forever. It's very easy to do the work yourself, and it's basically free. I used to replace brakes about twice a year, when I had a night job delivering pizza (zip code is all hills). I only ever had to pay for the parts the very first time. All the rest were free.

[@Basempass]

@@brettkirkpatrick464 I totally agree with you about doing all maintenance at the dealer, and to be honest it's cheaper and better for saving the car to last more in a good condition

[@numbahwong6903]

Very informative, concise information. Well presented.

[@DCBennycomedy]

great clear review covering a lot of bases thanks for posting

[@redutskiq]

Really helpful video! Only one correction - 3.2 engine is 6-cylinder inline ;) It is very very reliable too.

[@HMNLT]

redutskiq yes! The 3.2 is a solid engine indeed. The only concern is oil consumption if regular maintenance was not done! Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@ozComputerguy]

Mines at 270k Klms. Purring like a kitten. Yamaha! Great engine. Use the good oil. I’ve used Nulon full synth since 70k Klms Great car. Yes heavy so tyres fuel and suspension links. I also did a diff. Thanks ford for the shitty bearings. .

[@mbicer]

Hi! thanks for the in dept-review.. I am planning to buy a 2004 2.9 T6 engine XC90.. it has 146.000 km.. seems quite neat and clean.. I ll have LPG kit installed on it... thanks..

[@XitsundzuxoHimina]

Thank you for pointing out the on dash defects display 😍😍😍

[@phishphood423]

Worth nothing that only some messages show up here. You can have faults that are not read out as text and require a scanner -- these include missfires.

[@anonymousjohndoe]

I'm currently in the market - great content.

[@SSPspaz]

Excellent and informative. I'll hopefully be buying one of these in a few months when my lease expires. I saw how affordable they were on the used car market and was wondering about their reliability. Thanks again!

[@HMNLT]

Great cars when well maintained.

[@Mark-ms8gk]

YT algorithm man... It is getting sppoky good

[@HMNLT]

Is that how you found me? Haha sweet

[@wstevenson2004]

Outstanding video! Very informative! Thank you!

[@abdul-kabiralegbe5660]

Absolutely amazing review!

[@justingough16]

You did an awesome review of everything thank you Soo much for you're time I'm actually about to buy a 2005 2.5 turbo myself and this helped alot. Also I never would of know about the center console being removable 🤦‍♂️😂👍🏻❤️

[@chanelsteiner4645]

I was wondering why it was always falling off

[@justingough16]

@@chanelsteiner4645 pull it out seat the bottom and kinda force it in I had the same problem at the drive in then relized I never clipped it back in properly

[@CaptHollister]

1:59 Rust is peeking out from the plastic cladding. Unfortunately, that plastic cladding traps humidity and road salt while hiding the tin rot. The same thing happened to my 2008 XC70, it was pretty disastrous. To nitpick a little, the 3.2 is an inline 6 rather than a V6.

[@petervilla5393]

Great video!

[@tgi3197]

Thank you. Exactly what I was looking for.

[@puujii2012]

very very thanks bro, video was a helpful for me

[@g0fvt]

A well presented review, tempted to buy one….

[@Sauceyjames]

Great info! Guess I'll get an 09 and later with a V8 if I want one

[@pickles9774]

Thank you for this fantastic video.

[@xyval7675]

Volvo never offered a v6 and all engines except the yamaha made v8 have timing belts. the weak transmission of the 3 liter (wich is actually a 2.9 liter engine) youre reffering to isnt event that bad, the GM4t65e is a fairly reliable transmission, it just has a problem with the epc valve for the servo pin causing the forward brake band to snap. Only the early 05 v8 have a problem with the counter balance shaft, after that drilled a hole in the cover so fluids can drain. So you should be fine if you buy a 06+ or just dont let water get to your engine. Also a common failure ´point on the xc 90 is the CEM especially on the models after 05 when they got the newer type of CEM, essentialy water runs under the cowl and if the seal for the fusebox fails it drips onto the CEM.

[@southhillfarm2795]

Volvos are great for anyone living in a rust belt. I have a Land Rover LR2 which is based on this Volvo chassis through an engineering partnership with Volvo when Ford owned both companies. Volvos are expensive to fix as are Land Rover. Volvos have exceptional interior quality and the rust will be non existent even after 20 years, quite remarkable. The haldex AWD system is expensive to fix and will eventually need fixing. My Land ROver has an Aisen transmission so it won't have transmission issues as the Volvos may have. Not sure what brand transmission Volvo used on the XC90, but it's possible they switched over to the Aisen transmission later in the model cycle.

[@joshuared1000]

Great video! I am going to look at a 2006 today and its good to know about the counter balance issues =)

[@237323731]

I have three 2006 XC90’s and We love them all. Mine has 250,000 miles and runs extremely well and fast. I had it chipped and picked up a lot of HP. Surprises a lot of people and it surprised me when it hit 8000 rpm. They all have turbos. We also have a 2006 V70 SW and a lonely BMW 3 coupe. Love my Volvos especially my chipped coupe it’s performance stands out from the rest of them even the BMW.

[@hisa8620]

No problem at all with the my2007 so all XC90 from January 2006 and after. Check this info with serial number with Volvo

[@sergfuentes5813]

Very helpful and detailed video. Thanks.

[@titanoboa7165]

Can you further explain (at 11:17) the 'grenade' engines (your choice of words) in the V8 engines prior to 2009? Is there a way to fix the counterbalance issue prior to it 'grenading.'??? Thanks