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Volvo · Known Issues

2016 Volvo XC90 Problems: 3 Known Issues

2016 model year · 1,962+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,962+ owner reports, the 2016 Volvo XC90 has 3 documented known issues. None of the listed issues is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. The most commonly reported issue is Sensus Infotainment System Issues with 876 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $6,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • XC90 Engine1
  • XC90 Suspension1
  • XC90 Electrical1
  • Recalls11
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Suspension1
  • Electrical1
  • Recalls11
  • FAQ

All 3 Known Issues

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Community reported
654 owners

On the 2015-2017 Volvo XC90 2.0L T6, 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.

Common Symptoms

  • Low oil warning between changes
  • Need to add oil frequently
  • Blue smoke on startup
  • Oil smell from exhaust

How to Fix

Check oil level every 1,000 miles and top up as needed. Use Volvo-approved 0W-20 synthetic oil only. If consumption exceeds 1 quart per 1,000 miles, document with dealer for possible warranty claim. Piston ring replacement if out of warranty: $3,000-6,000. Later production engines (late 2017+) have updated rings.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Castrol Edge 32140029KT6 VCC RBS0-2AE 0W-20 oil-change kit

    supply the specified oil and filter for maintenance or measured top-up while the consumption cause is documented and repaired Fitment/availability: 2016-2017 Volvo XC90 T6 B4204T27 using VCC RBS0-2AE 0W-20, Hengst filter and drain seal; …

    FCP Euro

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $3,000-6,000 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
  • TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
Typical repair cost:$50 - $6,000

Research This Issue

Based on 654 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence654 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
432 owners

On the 2016-2019 Volvo XC90, the optional rear 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.

Common Symptoms

  • Rear sagging overnight
  • Compressor running constantly
  • Suspension fault message
  • Rough ride in rear
  • Vehicle leaning to one side

How to Fix

For air spring leaks: Replace individual air springs ($300-500 each). For compressor failure: Replace compressor ($500-1,000). Convert to conventional springs and bypass air system ($400-800) if prefer maintenance-free setup. OEM repair at dealer: $1,500-3,500 depending on components failed.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Arnott 32246194KT pair of rear air springs

    replace pressure-tested leaking or cracked rear air springs as an axle pair Fitment/availability: 2016-2019 Volvo XC90 equipped from the factory with self-leveling air suspension and whose VIN/original rear spring numbers cross to 322461…

    FCP Euro
  • Genuine Volvo 32315091 air-suspension compressor

    replace a compressor that fails current, pressure, output or internal-fault testing after all system leaks and control faults are corrected Fitment/availability: SPA Volvo XC90 factory auto-leveling air-suspension system using current co…

    FCP Euro

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $300-500 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
  • TipConvert to conventional springs and bypass air system ($400-800) if prefer maintenance-free setup.
  • TipConsider OEM parts for critical components like sensors and electrical parts - aftermarket can be unreliable
  • TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
Typical repair cost:$400 - $3,500

Research This Issue

Based on 432 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence432 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
876 owners

On the 2016-2022 Volvo XC90, 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.

Common Symptoms

  • Screen freezing
  • Random reboots
  • Touchscreen not responding
  • Slow response to inputs
  • Black screen
  • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto disconnecting

How to Fix

Perform a soft reset by holding the home button for 20 seconds. Check for software updates at Volvo dealer - many bugs fixed in updates. If screen unresponsive: Disconnect 12V battery for 15 minutes to reset system. For hardware failure, screen replacement runs $1,500-3,000 at dealer.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $1,500-3,000 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
  • TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
  • TipSearch Volvo XC90 forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
  • TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
Typical repair cost:$0 - $3,000

Research This Issue

Based on 876 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence876 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
NHTSA Recalls11 recalls

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 XC40, XC 40 Recharge, V60CC, V90, V90CC, XC90, and 2021-2022 V60, XC60, S60 vehicles. The seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Campaign #21V68200001/09/2021

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 S90L, 2020-2021 XC60, and XC90 vehicles. An improperly welded rotor and shaft may separate within the integrated brake system.

Campaign #21V71600015/09/2021

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.

Campaign #23V82700007/12/2023
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Other Volvo Models

Volvo S9028Volvo V6028Volvo S6024Volvo XC6019Volvo V7018Volvo EX9013

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Volvo XC90 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,962+ owner reports, the 2016 Volvo XC90 has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Excessive Oil Consumption, Rear Air Suspension Failure, Sensus Infotainment System Issues. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.

Is the Volvo XC90 reliable?

The 2016 Volvo XC90 has 3 known issues documented across 1,962+ owner reports. None of the matching records is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. 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. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

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 Rear Air Suspension Failure?

The optional rear 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 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.

Data sourced from 1,962+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

STEERING

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2019-2022 V60CC, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. During steering gear assembly, double screws may have been assembled on top of each other, which can cause a screw to fall into the gearbox housing.

Campaign #23V00100005/01/2023

AIR BAGS

Volvo Cars USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 Volvo V60, V60 Cross Country, V90, V90 Cross Country, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. The Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) control unit may not have been properly attached to the car body and may detach during a crash.

Campaign #21V00100007/01/2021

+ 6 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.