Our Volvo Forum Moderator songzunhuang writes about Volvo XC90:
OK, I have read tons of reports of why these are the “ones to avoid”. Surely there are some good ones out there? Of the hundreds of complaints, there must be tens of thousands of good ones right? Normally people with great cars don’t post comments when there isn’t a problem. I know I normally come to the forums when I am looking for a solution to an issue.
The XC90 was the SUV of the year once so it must of sold well. So I am starting a new list. Tell us if….
1) You’ve put tons of miles on your T6 without a transmission problem.
2) Your engine or suspension has never failed.
3) I can’t believe that I …. and the car made it.
4) What else?
I’m sure you can think of other things as well.
I just wanted to see if there was another side to this story. Thanks.
See the latest posts in the First Generation XC90 forum.
A Reminder Why We Drive Volvos

Hi, My XC90 D5 was the biggest lemon in the British isles in my view you can read some of my posts, but after thousands of pounds spent virtual re-building her i have quite grown fond of my XC ever day i rub the dashboard and tell the bas…d how i have looked after her, and up to now touch wood she hasn’t let me down since but that shows you the worry that still lingers in the back of your mind “what next” quality car let down by heads buried in the sand (Volvo Europe) but i like your question! come on guys defend your xc, scootay )
shiloh51933 »
We lost our beloved 2004 XC90 T6 and almost 2 years later I found a beautiful 2008 Volvo XC90 V8 in black.
I spent many hours searching the web and going in person to look at used 1stgen XC90’s. We were considering the purchase of new or almost new XC90 or possibly an almost new XC60T6(we thought it was too small) We actually loved the 2017 XC60 T6 but we held out for what she really wanted and that was a 1stgen XC90 T6 or better yet a V8 model.
Volvo XC90 Problems & Maintenance Items
- Ball Joint Failure Factory Recall
- XC90 Transmission Fluid Flush
- XC90 Oil, Spark Plugs, Air & Fuel Filters, Trans Flush
- XC90 PCV job on T6 Models
- XC90 Bulb Failure Position Light
- XC90 Fix a Volvo flip/switchblade key – DIY
- XC90 How to replace cabin filter-with photos
- All Transmissions Die – XC90 T6 Transmissions Die Sooner
- XC90 Front Brake Job
- XC90 Leaks from Sunroof Drain
- XC90 door won’t open from inside
- XC90 ABS problems
- XC90 Rear Differential
Lemmy »
I love mine because its ultra reliable. In 12 years and 142,000 miles the only failure has been one of the HID bulbs. I figured the opposite side wouldn’t be far behind, so replaced the pair.
And that’s been it.
Its economical. Its a 185 HP D5 with the Pilestar upgrade and gives a rock solid 35MPG imp in mixed motoring.
Its spacious. I’m 6’5″ and there is plenty of room.
Its supremely comfortable.
It’s no Lotus, buts its decent to drive, yet has a lazy nature for just loping along.
And the best bit is the XC90 has no pretensions. X5 drivers are trying too hard to impress, and Q7 drivers simply look like gits.
ZionXIX »
Added a new to me ’05 2.5T to the fleet.
86,000 miles and 1 owner. This particular vehicle is in much better condition than all the others I have looked at. Things of concern, clean history but mismatch bumper paint color and right rear lower panel. Something happened to this vehicle that did not get reported. Driver door has paint drip marks on the underside of the handle. Seller (cash only dealer) replaced the windshield, floor is soaked with water (likely sunroof drain). Regular oil changes on carfax and drove quite smoothly for 300 miles to get it home.

