2003-2025 Volvo XC90 Problems: 15 Known Issues
2003-2025 model years · 6,095+ owner reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 6,095+ owner reports, the 2003-2025 Volvo XC90 has 15 documented known issues, with 7 rated critical. The most serious are GM 4T65E Transmission Failure ($300-$6,000 repair), CEM (Central Electronic Module) Failure ($300-$1,800 repair), AEB System and Fuel Pump Recalls ($0-$0 repair), Loss of ABS, ESC and Traction Control From Brake Control Module 2 Error (Recall 23V012000), Recharge Plug-In Hybrid High-Voltage Battery / Propulsion System Faults and Reduced Performance ($0-$5,000 repair), 2021 XC90 Front Seat Belt Automatic Locking Retractor Recall (21V682000) and XC90 Recharge T8 High-Voltage Battery Short Circuit and Fire Risk (Recall 25V179000). The most commonly reported issue is PCV Breather System Failure with 1,567 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $6,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 15 Known Issues
When Issues Typically Appear
NHTSA Recalls11 recalls
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2022-2023 S60, V60, S90L, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. An electronic control module (ECM) software error may prevent the combustion engine from starting, causing a loss of drive power.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 S60, V60, V60CC, V90CC, XC60, XC90, XC40, and C40 vehicles. A diagnostic error in the Brake Control Module 2 (BCM2) may cause a loss of Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and traction control.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 S60, V60CC, XC60, XC90, XC40, and C40 vehicles. A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) may be falsely detected for the emergency call system (e-call) and display "e-Call Service Required" in the driver information module (DIM).
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, C40, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40 and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2015-2024 XC90 vehicles. The second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Volvo XC90 problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 6,095+ owner reports, the 2003-2025 Volvo XC90 has 15 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: GM 4T65E Transmission Failure, CEM (Central Electronic Module) Failure, AEB System and Fuel Pump Recalls. Of these, 7 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Volvo XC90 reliable?
The 2003-2025 Volvo XC90 has 15 known issues documented across 6,095+ owner reports. 7 issues are rated critical: GM 4T65E Transmission Failure and CEM (Central Electronic Module) Failure and AEB System and Fuel Pump Recalls and Loss of ABS, ESC and Traction Control From Brake Control Module 2 Error (Recall 23V012000) and Recharge Plug-In Hybrid High-Voltage Battery / Propulsion System Faults and Reduced Performance and 2021 XC90 Front Seat Belt Automatic Locking Retractor Recall (21V682000) and XC90 Recharge T8 High-Voltage Battery Short Circuit and Fire Risk (Recall 25V179000). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Volvo XC90 problems?
Repair costs for known Volvo XC90 issues range from $0 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, GM 4T65E Transmission Failure, typically costs $300-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Volvo XC90 is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Volvo XC90. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2003-2025 Volvo XC90 with 15 documented issues documented across 6,095+ owner reports.
What is the 2003-2005 Volvo XC90 GM 4T65E Transmission Failure?
The 2003-2005 XC90 with the T6 engine uses a GM 4T65E transmission that is prone to failure. The transmission was designed for lower-torque applications and struggles with the T6's power. Overheating and internal component failure are common. Repairs typically run $300-$6,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2003-2013 Volvo XC90 CEM (Central Electronic Module) Failure?
The Central Electronic Module controls many vehicle functions and is prone to failure due to water intrusion from clogged A/C drain or cabin air leaks. When the CEM fails, various electrical systems malfunction including windows, locks, lights, and instrument cluster. Repairs typically run $300-$1,800. Severity: high.
What is the 2019-2020 Volvo XC90 AEB System and Fuel Pump Recalls?
Multiple recalls affect 2019-2020 XC90: (1) Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) may not function properly (NHTSA 20V144000), (2) the low-pressure fuel pump can blow a fuse and fail, causing stalling (NHTSA 21V414000). Both are safety recalls with free repairs at Volvo dealers. Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2023 Volvo XC90 Loss of ABS, ESC and Traction Control From Brake Control Module 2 Error (Recall 23V012000)?
Volvo Car USA recalled certain 2023 XC90 vehicles under NHTSA campaign 23V012000. The cause is a diagnostic error in the Brake Control Module 2 (BCM2) that may lead to a loss of the Antilock Brake System, Electronic Stability Control and traction control. The XC90 is a tall, heav… Severity: high.
What is the 2023-2025 Volvo XC90 Recharge Plug-In Hybrid High-Voltage Battery / Propulsion System Faults and Reduced Performance?
XC90 Recharge owners have reported propulsion-system warnings, inability to charge, reduced power, and 'hybrid system failure' type messages affecting drivability. On some vehicles the fault triggers a check-engine light, limited EV operation, or a transition to reduced-performan… Repairs typically run $0-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2021 Volvo XC90 2021 XC90 Front Seat Belt Automatic Locking Retractor Recall (21V682000)?
Volvo Car USA recalled 2021 XC90 vehicles because the seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early. In a three-row family SUV this matters more than most: the seat belt is a common way to install a child restraint, especially in seating positions where lower anchor… Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2022 Volvo XC90 XC90 Recharge T8 High-Voltage Battery Short Circuit and Fire Risk (Recall 25V179000)?
Volvo Car USA recalled 2020-2022 XC90 plug-in hybrid SUVs because the high-voltage battery can short circuit within a battery module while the vehicle sits parked with a fully charged pack. NHTSA files the defect under Electrical System: Software and states the consequence as an… Severity: high.
What is the 2003-2014 Volvo XC90 PCV Breather System Failure?
The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system includes a breather box and hoses that degrade over time. When the PCV fails, it causes oil leaks, rough idle, and can blow out gaskets due to excessive crankcase pressure. This is a common issue on 5-cylinder Volvos. Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2017 Volvo XC90 Excessive Oil Consumption?
Early 2nd generation XC90s with the T6 engine may consume excessive oil between changes. Some owners report needing to add a quart every 1,500-3,000 miles. Volvo updated piston rings in later production. Repairs typically run $50-$6,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2019 Volvo XC90 Air Suspension Failure?
The optional four-corner air suspension on 2nd gen XC90s can develop leaks in the air springs or compressor failure. The system is used for automatic load leveling and ride height adjustment. Air springs develop cracks over time. Repairs typically run $400-$3,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2025 Volvo XC90 Google Built-In / Center Display Freezing, Rebooting, or Losing Connectivity?
Multiple 2023-2025 XC90 owners report the Android Automotive/Google Built-In infotainment system freezing, rebooting, dropping LTE/GPS, or failing to load climate, camera, and vehicle settings menus. Unlike older Sensus complaints, this issue is specific to the newer Google-based… Repairs typically run $0-$1,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2025 Volvo XC90 12V Auxiliary Battery Drain and Low-Voltage Electrical Fault Messages?
A recurring owner complaint on newer XC90s is unexpected 12V battery discharge leading to '12V battery critical charging fault,' no-start conditions, warning lights, and multiple electronic features going offline. The issue can be intermittent and is often tied to software sleep-… Repairs typically run $250-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2025 Volvo XC90 Reverse Camera View May Not Appear on the Center Screen (Recall 25V908000)?
On 2023-2025 XC90s covered by this recall, selecting reverse may not bring up the rearview camera image on the center display. NHTSA filed the defect under back-over prevention software, and because the image can be absent when the driver shifts into R, the vehicles fail Federal… Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2025 Volvo XC90 TCAM Telematics Module Failure Causing SOS, LTE, GPS, and App Connectivity Loss?
Owners of SPA-platform Volvos including the 2023-2025 XC90 continue to report TCAM-related failures where the vehicle loses cellular service, Volvo Cars app communication, GPS position, remote start/lock functions, and sometimes emergency-call features. In many cases the issue ap… Repairs typically run $0-$2,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2016-2022 Volvo XC90 Sensus Infotainment System Issues?
The Sensus touchscreen infotainment system can experience freezing, rebooting, and unresponsive touchscreen. Climate control and many vehicle functions are controlled through this screen, making issues particularly frustrating. Software updates have improved stability. Repairs typically run $0-$3,000. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.