Buying a used xc90. Are there model years to avoid?

MISSYGO98 · Post by **MISSYGO98** » 19 Apr 2017, 13:52

Will I be as happy with the 3.2 as I've been with the 2.5!?
Would I want something bigger than 2.5t as it's an SUV?

dcbunger · Post by **dcbunger** » 30 Jan 2018, 12:34

I'm looking at a 1990 XC90 i6 with 129,000 miles. Anything I should be aware of? This would be my first Volvo.

Post by **matthew1** » 30 Jan 2018, 13:32

Welcome to MVS, DC. You're looking at a XC90 T6, yes? The year is way off.

Post by **RickHaleParker** » 30 Jan 2018, 14:07

"I'm looking at a 1990 XC90 i6"

Volvo XC90 2002–Present

Post by **mrbrian200** » 30 Jan 2018, 16:30

What year did Volvo harden the steel used for the AWD angle gears? Or does that not apply to the XC90s? If it does, you're less likely to have trouble with the AWD system with a later model year after around 2004-2005. But I might be wrong if the gears were already updated when the XC90 was introduced for MY2003.

Sadly the Volvo T6 was a very good engine. The GM made transmission paired in that configuration self destructs. All other drivetrain variants use the Asin AW transmission. It's not the engine's fault. If it weren't for that transmission the T6's would probably be highly sought after.

General motors seemed to make a bunch of dud automatics during that era. Cousin had an 04 or 05 Lesabre that the transmission went kerplunkt at about 90,000 miles. Likely a variant of the same gearbox.

Post by **SuperHerman** » 30 Jan 2018, 20:21

The question is not so simple. The XC90 was in production for over a decade. Over that period of time numerous changes were made to both the engines, transmissions, electronics and related safety features.

A fully loaded 2003 differs significantly from a fully loaded 2014 - not just in price.

That said the 2003-2005 2.9T with the GM 4T65E transmission will be the cheapest because the transmission has issues. They can be repaired and I have seen listings for some with over 250k.

The 2.5T with the AW55/50 transmission, although a lower model, has a superior resale value as this set up has proven to be more durable and robust plus more economical on gas.

The early V8 models are not highly sought after because of an engine bearing issue. The later models also are not favorites because they cost more to maintain and have poor gas mileage (as do all V8s).

XC90s with the 3.2 and AW transmissions are usually the best bet.

All XC90s are hard on suspensions and tires.

Budget and mechanical ability - as well as clearly knowing the past service history in light of the above listed factors - is important.