Volvo brand mark

2016–2025 Volvo S90 · common problems & known faults

A comfortable and safety-focused executive saloon, where electronic systems and the diesel's timing belt service are the key items for used buyers to verify.

Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026

Quick answer

The most commonly reported faults on the 2016–2025 Volvo S90 are D4 diesel timing belt service interval missed causing wear concerns, Sensus infotainment freezes and slow system boot-up and Air suspension faults on higher trim estate and saloon models. 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.

Reliability snapshot

Based on the documented faults on this page for the Volvo S90.

7.0/ 10
Solid
Critical
0
High
1
Medium
3
Low
1

Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.

Known faults to check

ElectricalMedium

Sensus infotainment freezes and slow system boot-up

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Cycle through all Sensus infotainment functions and check for freezing
EngineHigh

D4 diesel timing belt service interval missed causing wear concerns

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check service history for timing belt replacement at the correct interval
SuspensionMedium

Air suspension faults on higher trim estate and saloon models

Typically appears
60,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check ride height is level and listen for compressor running excessively
ElectricalMedium

Adaptive cruise control and pilot assist sensor faults

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Test adaptive cruise control and lane keeping systems on a test drive
InteriorLow

Driver's seat memory module and heating element failures

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Test seat memory functions and heating elements across all positions

Inspecting a Volvo S90?

Generate a full, tickable pre-purchase checklist tailored to this exact vehicle · add photos and notes as you inspect. Try it free.

Check this exact car

Frequently asked questions

Is the S90's diesel timing belt a concern?

Yes, missed replacement intervals can cause expensive damage, so verify this in the service history.

Are the electronic driver aids reliable?

Mostly yes, but sensor faults can occur, so testing adaptive cruise and lane keeping is worthwhile.

Should I worry about air suspension?

On air-sprung models check ride height carefully, as compressor failures are costly to fix.

Which engine is the safer choice?

The petrol T5 avoids the diesel's timing belt risk and is generally the simpler option.

Sources & further reading

Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.