2015–2025 Volvo XC90 · common problems & known faults

Sensus infotainment freezes and reboots

Typically appears

Age-related

What to inspect

Cycle every screen function including climate

Air suspension leaks on optioned cars

Typically appears

70,000+ miles

What to inspect

Check ride height after standing overnight

Timing belt and turbo wear on 2.0 diesels

Typically appears

90,000+ miles

What to inspect

Check belt evidence and listen for turbo whine

Front disc wear from kerb weight

Typically appears

30,000+ miles

What to inspect

Check disc lips and pad thickness

Hesitation off the line and a hissing noise under acceleration due to a split PowerPulse air hose on D5 models.

Typically appears

40,000-70,000 miles

What to inspect

Open the bonnet, locate the thick rubber PowerPulse hose at the front right of the engine, and squeeze it to feel for splits or listen for hissing when revved.

Blocked panoramic sunroof drains causing water ingress, leading to damp carpets and potential Central Electronic Module (CEM) failure.

Typically appears

4-6 years

What to inspect

Press firmly into the front footwell carpets, particularly on the passenger side, to check for dampness. Inspect the headlining around the sunroof for water stains.

High-pitched whining or grinding noise from the rear axle on T8 Recharge models due to Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) bearing failure.

Typically appears

50,000-80,000 miles

What to inspect

Select 'Pure' driving mode to force electric-only operation. Drive at 20-30 mph and listen closely for a distinct metallic whine originating from the rear of the cabin.

Exterior doors fail to lock or unlock using the remote key fob due to faulty door lock actuators.

Typically appears

50,000-100,000 miles

What to inspect

Lock and unlock the vehicle using the key fob three times in rapid succession, physically pulling every exterior door handle each time to ensure all latches engage and disengage.