What reliability score does the Volvo S90 get?

4.3 out of 10, scored from the 8 faults we document for this model and how severe each one is.

Is the 2016–2025 Volvo S90 reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

4.3/ 10

Buy with caution

On our documented-fault scoring the Volvo S90 rates 4.3 out of 10 · buy with caution. We hold 8 known faults for it and 3 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around electrical, engine and suspension. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Walk unless the history is spotless

What the score is built from

Critical: 0
High: 3
Medium: 4
Low: 1

Weak points cluster around electrical, engine, suspension, interior.

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The faults that decide it

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
Typical repair: Timing / wet belt kit + water pump · £450–£1,100

Drivetrain (T8 PHEV)High

High-pitched whining or grinding noise from the rear axle caused by premature wear of the Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) bearings.

Typically appears: 50,000-80,000 miles
What to inspect: Select 'Pure' drive mode to force electric-only operation. Drive at 15-20 mph with the radio off and windows slightly down, listening carefully for a whine from the rear end.
Typical repair: Door / window mechanism · £130–£600

Bodywork & InteriorHigh

Water ingress into the front footwells leading to potential Central Electronic Module (CEM) damage, caused by blocked panoramic sunroof drain tubes.

Typically appears: 36,000-60,000 miles
What to inspect: Press your hand firmly into the lowest point of the front carpets, particularly on the passenger side, feeling for dampness. Check the cabin for a musty, damp odour.
Typical repair: Electrical diagnosis & module repair · £120–£900

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
Typical repair: Infotainment repair or software fix · £120–£1,200

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
Typical repair: Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

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What the score is built from

The faults that decide it

Inspecting a Volvo S90?

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