Volvo brand mark

Is the 2016–2026 Volvo V90 reliable?

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

Quick answer

3.9/ 10
Buy with caution

On our documented-fault scoring the Volvo V90 rates 3.9 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 engine, suspension and electrical. 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
5
Low
0

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

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The faults that decide it

EngineHigh

D4 and D5 diesel DPF and AdBlue faults on short-journey cars

Typically appears
60,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check AdBlue level warnings and evidence of completed regenerations
Typical repair
DPF forced regen or replacement · £250–£1,600
SuspensionHigh

Rear air suspension leaks on cars fitted with it

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Leave overnight and check the rear has not settled
Typical repair
Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100
Body / InteriorHigh

Water ingress into the front footwells caused by blocked panoramic sunroof drains or shrinking roof seals, risking CEM (Central Electronic Module) damage.

Typically appears
4-6 years
What to inspect
Press your hand firmly into the lowest point of both front footwell carpets to check for dampness, and sniff the cabin for a musty odour.
Typical repair
Electrical diagnosis & module repair · £120–£900
ElectricalMedium

Sensus screen rebooting and slow cold-start response

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Start from cold and wait for the full boot sequence
Typical repair
Infotainment repair or software fix · £120–£1,200
TransmissionMedium

Automatic gearbox shunt from missed fluid changes

Typically appears
80,000+ miles
What to inspect
Feel for hesitation between second and third
Typical repair
Automatic gearbox service or rebuild · £350–£3,000

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

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