2008 XC90 4.4 V8 Sport

ACgudf8 · Post by **ACgudf8** » 23 Nov 2023, 00:21

Hi, everyone! Much obliged to all of you. Aui is the name (Maui without the "M") a newly accepted member - thank you, sir Matthew!
I received this 2008 XC90 4.4 V8 Sport @ 150143mi as a gift. Recent tranny flush and fill in October this year, but, I dont think the shop used a genuine ATF - Just to make it apparent for everyone

My friend (second owner) decided to not deal with her anymore, so they gave me their beloved car and I liked it instantly! Now, what's happening is I'd feel/hear a clunk every now and then while accelerating at slow speed up to 40ish mph. Same thing when decelerating to the same speed. I pulled my Autel MaxiCOM MK808Z scanner and decided to access and troubleshoot her. In TCM parameters, I was able to access them solenoids. All gave a "negative activity"

. Weird is this... I turn over the engine, NO exclamation mark in my dash. She will run really smooth (shifting thru all gears) and strong! Then, I will have the exclamation mark lit up (occasionally) but, still drive just fine. Not too often clunking, tho. But, i will have a limp upon going to a stop (light). I've had one incident on Nov 19th (since having her for a month now) of stalling with a really loud clunk! Like someone hit the car, when I shifted to R while pulling through a parking stall. I have lights and radio and ac and all electronics still working or so I thought? I shifted back to P and turn her over again and it was good, but, not without a clunk again when I shift to D to park her to fully pull in the lot. I haven’t started her since

I acknowledge the transmission solenoids may or are already toast?! A valve body revamp? Xmission even? So, my cry to all near and far (I am down here in Bellevue, WA, USA), even though it has been posted here the Nth time already, is please shine your light(s) on me on this repair adventure so I may have a reliable daily driver for my growing family. Btw, I came to know about this group thru my NextDoor neighbor who's a Volvo guy, and I am really thankful for him on leading me here with you all! Cheers, and please have a great and happy Thanksgiving!
P.S.
Perhaps, direct me to where should I bring her in for the needed repairs, and I will do my best to work for the money to fund her to get fixed. VERY MUCH THANKFUL!

Post by **Krons** » 23 Nov 2023, 04:21

Others may chime in but I always start loading the parts cannon with the cheapest stuff first. Based on the comment I’d drain and fill the transmission fluid with the proper stuff and see if there is improvement.

ACgudf8 · Post by **ACgudf8** » 25 Nov 2023, 16:24

Krons, much obliged! I will have it reflushed and then fill with Volvo-preferred ATF for this specific xmission. I will post update(s). Thx, again!

Post by **MoVolvos** » 25 Nov 2023, 21:15

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The XC90 V8 is on my Volvo bucket list and maybe the last as the newer 2.0's and others have oil burning issues. Last month Member chitownV went and looked at a V8 for me as he was 20 minutes and I 4 plus hours away from the dealership. He is very knowledgeable of the XC90 and very helpful to say the least. Due to the detailed issues he found I passed on the car. Interior and exterior looked great but it was sorta of a lipstick on the pig. Member ggleavitt is also very knowledgeable. Enjoy the V8!
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Post by **Roger_850T** » 26 Nov 2023, 08:39

I agree with Krons - a transmission fluid change is relatively inexpensive and a good place to start. The spec you want is JWS 3309. Options include the Volvo fluid, Mobil 3309, Toyota Type IV, to name a few. You could also take the step of resetting the adaptations after you do the fluid change - this triggers the transmission to re-learn the shifting profile of the different solenoids, and may also help.

Good luck!

Roger

chitownV · Post by **chitownV** » 29 Nov 2023, 03:33

There are several things going on here. I suggest to make a checklist of parts needed for each system. Engine-intake manifold gaskets and PCV system, serpentine & alternator, transmission fluid, brake fluid, spark plugs (& maybe coils), Haldex AWD, engine mounts, etc.

Some things i would start with…

1. The Autel might not read the solenoids correctly. In the P3, their TF-80SC has more data read out compared to the P2 vehicles. An example of the difference is that in the P3, the transmission solenoid pressure target can be read, but not on the P2. Pressure is read via the solenoid activation. I would pass on suspecting all solenoids have issues.

2. The clunking could be independent from your engine and transmission issues. It could be as simple as needing to change all the engine mounts. I would first look into the upper engine mount and the lower torque mount to start.

3. I do agree with others to change the transmission fluid. Don’t go back to the same place that probably put the wrong fluid. Don’t have a shop use a “flush” machine. The safest way is to use YouTube to learn the drain and fill method for the TF-80SC. Like others have said, use specific JWS-3309/T-IV fluid. A typical drain and fill will yield 3-4 quarts. Do this a few times (12 qts total). Last, make sure only the fluid counter is reset. Don’t reset adaptations.

4. As far as stalling, you have to look into the engine maintenance. PCV system, ignition, fuel filter, etc. Look and take pics around the engine, trying to find
oileaks. Have you scanned the engine codes?

5. Sometimes a kick could be related to the AWD unit connected to the rear differential. The fluid and filter for the AWD Haldex unit needs to be changed regularly. If these aren’t done, then the AWD pump can burn out.

6. I suggest you start researching the VIDA Volvo diagnostic & manual software. It needs a Dice unit to connect from the computer to the OBDII port. This will give you factory Volvo diagnostics and information.

Last thing. The #1 issue with P2 XC90s is delayed maintenance. The 2nd is going cheap with maintenance and repairs, costing more in the end. Look up FCP Euro online as the are a very reputable parts retailer and they have a lifetime warranty on their parts, including engine oil and original Volvo parts bought through them.

Post by **ggleavitt** » 29 Nov 2023, 08:55

I would concur with the recommendation to get a full fluid swap with the right stuff (3309) and reset the adaptation (RA, not to be confused with CMA). Drive it for a while and if you're still concerned, maybe we can find some time to take a look if you're willing to come up north (exit 212 area).

The transmission clunking could be compounded by worn engine mounts. You probably have some other powertrain work that can be done to improve the driving experience, given the age and mileage. Motor leaking from the usual places (timing cover, valve cover) or has it been resealed? I won't have any direct suggestion about the stall but see if it changes any once new fluid is in.

Getting the Volvo codes read is always a good first step to knowing what you have to begin with.