Questions regarding buying an used XC90

DimnSlow · Post by **DimnSlow** » 08 Feb 2010, 09:39

I have noticed that a lot of used XC90s (4-5 years old) been pricing very reasonably lately. I am considering getting an used one with reasonable miles (50-70K) as a ski and dog car. Because of this, AWD is a must.

Are there any specific years or options I should be on the lookout for (or try to avoid)? Any known or common issues with the car?

My Volvo 850 T has been amazingly reliable and I would like to enjoy the same level of reliability on the XC90.

Thank you in advance!

Post by **jblackburn** » 08 Feb 2010, 09:42

Avoid the early ones and the T6 model, which are ridden with transmission problems. My neighbor had one of the earlier ones, and his transmission was replaced TWICE in 3 years under warranty, and was on its way out again when he sold it after 5.

The T5 AWD is the one to go for in my opinion. Or the recent 3.2 6-cyl versions, depending on what year you are looking at.

Post by **OEMVolvoParts** » 08 Feb 2010, 09:49

2003-06 XC90's with the 2.9T and AWD are the ones that you might want to stay away from. I'm sure those are exactly the ones you saw priced reasonably.

All 5 and 8 cylinders are good during those years, with the exception of the common things like brakes that wear out quickly and random software updates you will have to pay for. The 3.2 in the later years has been ok so far, no big issues. I would buy the V8 if I had my choice for reliability and re-sale value, but then again it will cost the most.

DimnSlow · Post by **DimnSlow** » 08 Feb 2010, 10:00

Thank you for all of your input, I really appreciate it.

Based on MSN.com (though not the most reliable source) it looks like 2004 and 2005 had some "significant" engine problems and the 2003 had "moderate" steering and suspension problems.

I heard the V-8 was made by Yamaha and base on other products they make I'm pretty sure it's a great engine, but I don't think I need something that robust to haul my dog around and some skis to the slopes. Does it make a huge difference?

Since I am looking for more functionality, I'm looking for the best bang for the buck. Which year would you recommend? Are the T-5s the 2.9L Turbo, or are those the T-6?

I'm assuming the general maintenance is the same as other Volvos.

Post by **jblackburn** » 08 Feb 2010, 10:12

The 5 is the 2.5T. MSN is a pretty good side for comparing features, reliability data, and specs between cars, but I have noticed that they don't include optional engines or some trim packages.

General maintenance is more or less the same...the AWD system is something to look out for on these models, as well as rear suspension problems that are associated with the entire series. You need to keep up with tire rotations & tread patterns with the AWD system. Personally, I'd steer away from the V8, I can't ever imagine buying a huge car that eats that much gas for myself. In my opinion, if you want a fast car...um...don't get a big SUV.

DimnSlow · Post by **DimnSlow** » 08 Feb 2010, 11:24

jablackburn wrote:Personally, I'd steer away from the V8, I can't ever imagine buying a huge car that eats that much gas for myself. In my opinion, if you want a fast car...um...don't get a big SUV.

I'm pretty open on the model right now, but I agree with you that for the purpose I would probably steer away from the V-8 unless I find a deal that is too good to pass up.

jablackburn wrote:The 5 is the 2.5T.

What years did they make the 2.5T?

Post by **jblackburn** » 08 Feb 2010, 11:29

2003-2006 is what it looks like. In 2007 it was re-designed and the engine choices were narrowed to the 3.2 6-cyl and the V8.

DimnSlow · Post by **DimnSlow** » 08 Feb 2010, 11:47

jablackburn wrote:2003-2006 is what it looks like. In 2007 it was re-designed and the engine choices were narrowed to the 3.2 6-cyl and the V8.

Oh wow, so from 2003-2006 they had the T-5, T-6 and V8?

I did notice a lot of T-6 for sale. I'll note to avoid those. Thanks again for everyone's help.

Post by **jblackburn** » 08 Feb 2010, 14:11

The V8 wasn't brought around until 2005; the T6 was discontinued in 2006 as far as I know.

If you're not dead-set yet on the XC90, the 2003-2006 Acura MDX is definitely something to compare it to.

Post by **OEMVolvoParts** » 15 Feb 2010, 09:15

They also had a 5 cylinder in 2007 for the XC90. Also for what it is worth, the V8 gets near the same mileage as a T6, it just does it with stone cold reliability (and more money). It's not about speed or power, its's about re-sale value and reliability. It also has the best transmission mated to it. Of course firing up a V8 in a Volvo is not that bad of a way to start your day.

The 5 cylinder is still the best overall, imo, but the V8 is pretty good too, and what I would pick if I could afford one.