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Volvo Xc90 reliability

The Volvo Xc90 fails its MOT about as often as most cars over 10 years old: 39.2% of 31,744 tests failed in 2023, against 39.7% on average.

Up to 5 years old
14% failed their MOT
About average
From 12,147 MOT tests of Volvo Xc90s this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 72% more oftenTyre condition5.5% vs 3.2%Fix about £90
Fails 2× as oftenMechanical brake components4% vs 1.8%
Advised 34% more oftenMechanical brake components16.2% vs 12.1%
6 to 10 years old
21.1% failed their MOT
About average
From 18,302 MOT tests of Volvo Xc90s this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 3× as oftenSteering linkage components3% vs 1.1%
Fails 37% more oftenBrake performance2.6% vs 1.9%
Advised 45% more oftenSuspension arms7.7% vs 5.3%
Advised 4× as oftenSteering linkage components5.1% vs 1.3%
Over 10 years old
39.2% failed their MOT
About average
From 31,744 MOT tests of Volvo Xc90s this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 2× as oftenBrake performance14.1% vs 5.8%
Fails 94% more oftenPosition lamps10.3% vs 5.3%Fix about £30
Fails 4× as oftenABS / EBS / ESC3.7% vs 1%
Fails 40% more oftenFront and rear fog lamps1.4% vs 1%Fix about £30
Advised 75% more oftenSuspension arms21.2% vs 12.1%
Advised 2× as oftenHeadlamps7.7% vs 3.7%Fix about £30
Advised 83% more oftenSub-frames7.7% vs 4.2%
Advised 67% more oftenDirection indicators4% vs 2.4%
Safety recalls

43 DVSA recalls for the Volvo Xc90

Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.

R/2025/5173 Dec 2025Built 2016–2025Front seat belts

On affected vehicles the front left seat bolts may not have been torqued according to specification which could reduce the occupant protection in an impact.

Fix: Re-torque front seat bolts.

Recalled models: XC90 · 1 vehicles

R/2025/21123 Jun 2025Built 2019–2025BCM2 SW – Safety Notice

Affected vehicles may experience a temporary loss of braking functionality after coasting downhill with ‘B’ mode selected or when using One Pedal Drive. This could potentially lead to a collision.

Fix: Install modified software via an Over the Air (OTA) update.

Recalled models: XC90 · 1,764 vehicles

R/2025/11724 Mar 2025Built 2019–2021SPA1 Cell Modules

On affected vehicles the High Voltage (HV) Battery may have a manufacturing defect which could cause the battery cells to overheat when the HV Battery is fully charged. In a worst-case scenario there is a risk of fire when the vehicle is parked up with a fully charged HV Battery.

Fix: Check and replace the HV Battery if necessary and install modified software.

Recalled models: XC90 · 2,081 vehicles

R/2024/4465 Nov 2024Built 2019–2020BCM2 – Push Road

The rod connecting the brake pedal to the brake booster may not have been assembled correctly. The final torque might not be according to manufacturing specification due to deviations in the equipment. If the rod does disconnect the mechanical connection between brake pedal and brake booster cannot be guaranteed. In the worst-case scenario if the rod disconnects the brake pedal function cannot be guaranteed

Fix: A Volvo retailer will check and if necessary tighten the rod to correct specification.

Recalled models: XC90 · 1,028 vehicles

R/2024/12411 Mar 2024Built 2022–2023Seat and Seat Belt Torque

The screw joints for the seats and seat-belts may not have been torqued to the correct specification which means in the event of an impact insufficient protection will be available.

Fix: The solution is to check and adjust the torque.

Recalled models: XC90 · 4 vehicles

R/2023/3458 Dec 2023Built 2014–2023The anchorage bolts for the second-row seat belts and seat belt buckles may not have been correctly secured. In a worst-case scenario this may not provide sufficient protection in the event of a collision.

The anchorage bolts for the second-row seat belts and seat belt buckles may not have been correctly secured. In a worst-case scenario this may not provide sufficient protection in the event of a collision

Fix: Inspect and re-install.

Recalled models: XC90 · 572 vehicles

R/2023/02524 Jan 2023Built 2022–2023There may be a potential software error in the brake control module.

There may be a potential software error in the brake control module.

Fix: Update the brake control module software.

Recalled models: XC90 · 10,197 vehicles

R/2022/31327 Oct 2022Built 2021–2022A software error may prevent the engine control module from starting the engine

The Engine Control Module (ECM) may prevent the combustion engine from starting.�

Fix: Download updated software.

Recalled models: XC90 · 4,755 vehicles

R/2021/36018 Oct 2021Built 2019Thrust bearing in turbo charger might not be robust enough

The thrust bearing in the turbo charger may not be robust enough.

Fix: Replace turbocharger with a modified version which has an improved thrust bearing.

Recalled models: XC90 · 2,083 vehicles

R/2021/33118 Sept 2021Built 2019–2020Potentially insufficient or missing welding connection in the hydraulic unit of the brake system

There may be an insufficient or missing welding connection in the Hydraulic Unit of the Brake System.

Fix: Replace the Hydraulic Unit.

Recalled models: XC90 · 28 vehicles

R/2021/2057 Jun 2021Built 2018–2019There is a risk that the 15amp fuse could blow which will prevent the low pressure fuel pump from operating

There is a risk that the 15amp fuse could blow which will prevent the low pressure fuel pump operating.

Fix: Replace the 15A fuse with a 20A fuse which can withstand this peak.

Recalled models: XC90 · 14,380 vehicles

R/2021/0017 Jan 2021Built 2020Vehicles may have the supplementary restraint system control unit incorrectly tightened to the car body

Vehicles may have the Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) control unit incorrectly tightened to the car body.

Fix: Inspect and tighten the SRS control unit.

Recalled models: XC90 · 704 vehicles

R/2020/07316 Mar 2020Built 2019–2020Software issue means that automatic emergency brake system may not engage

The Automatic Emergency Brake System a function of the IntelliSafe system may not always engage increasing the risk of a collision

Fix: Affected vehicles must have new software downloaded

Recalled models: XC90 · 56,385 vehicles

R/2019/45219 Dec 2019Built 2019Possible loss of power whilst driving

Possible loss of power whilst driving.

Fix: Vehicles must have updated software downloaded.

Recalled models: XC90 · 53 vehicles

R/2019/1807 Oct 2019Built 2014–2018The engine's plastic inlet manifold may melt and deform

The engines plastic inlet manifold may melt and deform

Fix: Update vehicles with improved soot reducing software cleaning of TMAP and EMAP. Fit additional hoses where necessary.

Recalled models: XC90

R/2019/12825 Apr 2019Built 2014–2019An engine cooling system hose may break

An engine cooling system hose may break and could cause a coolant leak.

Fix: Replace the hose on affected vehicles.

Recalled models: XC90 · 959 vehicles

R/2018/3774 Jan 2019Built 2015–2016Small cracks on the inside of a rubber fuel hose

Small cracks on the inside of a rubber fuel hose.

Fix: Replacement of affected fuel hoses.

Recalled models: XC90 · 30,777 vehicles

R/2018/31412 Nov 2018Built 2016–2018Possible software issue in the vehicle connectivity module (vcm)

There may be a software issue in the Vehicle Connectivity Module.

Fix: Upgrade software in the Vehicle Connectivity Module.

Recalled models: XC90 · 7,322 vehicles

R/2017/18815 Jun 2017Built 2016Rear passenger seat belt pre tensioner may not be to specification

The pre-tensioner in the driver�s side third row passenger seat belt may not have been produced according to the correct specification In the event of a collision the pre tensioner and seat belt will still operate as intended but a very small part could enter the passenger compartment. As a temporary measure until the seat belt has been replaced it is recommended that the seat belt is not used.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the seat belt.

Recalled models: XC90 · 501 vehicles

R/2017/1058 Mar 2017Built 2016–2017Retaining bolt for inflatable curtain may be broken

The retaining bolts used to assemble the Inflatable Curtain may be broken and offer less protection in the event of an incident.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace all retaining bolts.

Recalled models: XC90 · 2,409 vehicles

R/2017/0023 Jan 2017Built 2016One or more airbags may fail to deploy in the event of a collision

It has been identified by the manufacturer that the air-bag initiator does not meet specification. This can therefore result in the initiator not functioning correctly which can lead to none deployment of the air-bag. Should a collision occur then there is an increased risk of injury to the occupants of the vehicle.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to replace the air-bags with a new quality assured component.

Recalled models: XC90 · 1,415 vehicles

R/2016/2571 Nov 2016Built 2015–2016Seatbelt may separate from the buckle

It has been identified there is a possibility the front seatbelt buckle stud may not have been punched correctly during production. This may result in a separation between the buckle and seatbelt bracket if the vehicle is involved in a collision.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to inspect the seatbelt buckle and if required to replace the seatbelt buckle.

Recalled models: XC90 · 47 vehicles

R/2015/20527 Oct 2015Built 2015Engine may fail

Affected vehicles may have a crankshaft that has been insufficiently hardened which may fail and nay cause engine failure.

Fix: Check identity of crankshaft. If the relevant marking is not present then replace engine.

Recalled models: XC90 · 9 vehicles

R/2015/17426 Aug 2015Built 2015Third row passenger airbags may fail to deploy as intended

Affected vehicles have interior panels that may prevent the inflatable curtain airbags from deploying as intended. This could reduce the level of protection offered to third row passengers in the event of an accident.

Fix: Modify affected interior panels to allow the inflatable curtains to deploy as intended.

Recalled models: XC90 · 1,690 vehicles

R/2015/1402 Jul 2015Built 2008–2009Loss of steering assistance

A hose for the power steering assistance hydraulics could come into contact with the cooling fan. This would cause a noise which an observant driver may be able to hear. If the hose and fan conflict for long enough then it is possible for the hose to leak power steering fluid to the degree that servo assistance could be lost.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check the hydraulic hose for damage and relace as necessary. The hose will then be secured with a modified bracket.

Recalled models: XC90 · 2,584 vehicles

R/2015/1113 Jun 2015Built 2015Sips system may not deploy when required

It has been identified that the wiring harness for the Side Impact Protection System airbag (SIPS) on the drivers and passengers front seats may have been routed incorrectly. This could result in the wiring harness becoming damaged which will illuminate the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) light on the instrument panel. If the SRS light is illuminated then additional care should be taken when driving the vehicle as SRS functions may be affected.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check the routing of the wiring harness and if required reroute it and repair any damage.

Recalled models: XC90 · 301 vehicles

R/2012/05624 Apr 2012Engine may fail

There could be a sudden and unexpected failure of the bottom end of the engine because of a non-conformity during production of the connecting rods.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the engine.

Recalled models: XC90 · 6 vehicles

R/2011/05916 May 2011Power steering assistance could be lost and fluid may leak

A leak may occur from the internal pipes of the steering gear. In most cases the leak will be gradual and will drain the power steering oil generating noise and a slow decrease in the power steering assistance. In the worst case there could be a complete loss of power steering fluid and steering assistance without any warning to the driver.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the internal pipe set.

Recalled models: XC90 · 4,992 vehicles

R/2010/16618 Oct 2010Wheel may become loose

It has been identified that the standard wheel securing bolts may not have undergone the correct hardening process. This will result in corrosion a noise and/or vibration. If this condition is not rectified there is a possibility that the wheel may become loose and detach.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the standard wheel bolts.

Recalled models: XC90 · 186 vehicles

R/2010/09313 Jul 2010Fuel may leak

It has been identified that a number of fuel pressure pipes may have a defect which could result in a fuel leakage. Although it can be identified by the smell of fuel it is possible although unlikely that an external heat source could ignite the fuel so resulting in a fire.

Fix: Recall affected for inspection of fuel pressure line and replacement if required.

Recalled models: XC90 · 466 vehicles

R/2010/07111 Jun 2010Gearbox may jam

A section of the gear shift mechanism may over time become loose and cause the mechanism to become jammed. If this was to occur it might not be possible to change gear or select neutral.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check that the ball joint for the gear selector is properly secured.

Recalled models: XC90 · 6,961 vehicles

R/2010/04422 Apr 2010Fire may occur

Fuel may leak from a defective fuel pressure line. Although unlikely there is a potential that an external ignition source could ignite the fuel and result in a fire in the driver's side wheel arch area.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to inspect and where necessary replace the fuel pressure line.

Recalled models: XC90 · 18 vehicles

R/2009/1412 Dec 2009Loss of power assistance to steering

A power steering hose may come into contact with the engine cooling fan. As a consequence the hose may become damaged and subsequently leak resulting in loss of power steering assistance.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to fit a new pipe clamp and where necessary a new power steering hose.

Recalled models: XC90 · 6,501 vehicles

R/2008/0748 May 2008Vehicle may stall

It has been identified that; on assembly of the engine mounting bracket incorrect screws may have been used. This can result in breakage of the bracket which can lead to heavy engine vibrations/noise and reduced engine power or stalling due to the limp home mode being activated.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will the engine mounting bracket screws replaced.

Recalled models: XC90 · 13 vehicles

R/2008/0395 Mar 2008Steering power assistance may fail

It has been identified thatthe steering gear pressure hose may become damaged due to conflict with the engine cooling fan. Should the hose come into contact with the cooling fan there could be a sudden draining of the hydraulic oil from the system and loss of steering power assistance.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the steering pressure hose secured to avoid possible engine cooling fan contact.

Recalled models: XC90 · 3,815 vehicles

R/2007/18210 Dec 2007Can-bus connection may be affected

It has been identified that upon insertion of the ignition key the engine control module may transmit a signal to shut down the Can-Bus network thus disabling functions such as the climate control.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the relevant software upgraded.

Recalled models: XC90 · 245 vehicles

R/2007/05813 Mar 2007Fire may occur

The electric cooling fan control unit's metal cover may not have the correct corrosion protection. Should corrosion occur water may enter the control unit causing an electrical malfunction and in extreme cases cause a fire in the engine compartment.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to fit an improved fan assembly.

Recalled models: XC90 · 388 vehicles

R/2007/03113 Feb 2007Engine malfunction light may illuminate

On petrol engined vehicles it has been found that the PCV (Positive Crank Ventilation) nipple may crack or become loose resulting in an air leak. This could cause a whistling sound and may cause the engine malfunction lamp to operate.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the PCV nipple.

Recalled models: XC90 · 1,139 vehicles

R/2006/08910 May 2006Steering may fail

Under continuous exceptionally hard use it is possible for the track rod end ball joint to fracture. In extreme cases this could lead to loss of steering control.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace both the nearside and the offside outer track rod ends.

Recalled models: XC90 · 18,728 vehicles

R/2005/16821 Nov 2005Battery ground cable may short circuit

The battery positive cable may be in conflict with the starter motor solenoid. If a conflict does develop a short circuit of the battery ground cable will occur. This may result in smoke appearing from under the bonnet or a failure to start with warning lamps illuminated.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the distance between the battery positive cable checked and adjusted if the clearance is less than 4mm.

Recalled models: XC90 · 911 vehicles

R/2004/0077 Jan 2004Possible fuel leak from injector pipes.

The fuel injector pipes may not have been fitted correctly and as a consequence could leak.

Fix: Examine all potentially affected vehicles and replace any incorrectly fitted injector pipes.

Recalled models: XC90 · 287 vehicles

R/2003/17130 Oct 2003Possible unintentional operation of abs

There is a possibility that at certain temperatures (room temp or below) that the front wheel speed sensors can send faulty signals to a number of control units. It is possible that under braking the ABS could be activated when not needed and the ABS light will be illuminated.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace both front wheel sensors with modified type.

Recalled models: XC90 · 429 vehicles

R/2003/16724 Oct 2003Possible incorrect fitting of seat belt attachments

There is a possibility that the seat belt attachments for the 2nd and 3d row may not have been fitted correctly. Some attachments may not have been tightened properly.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and inspect the attachments and if necessary replace the screws and tighten to correct specification

Recalled models: XC90 · 1,546 vehicles

DVSA vehicle safety recalls (Crown copyright, Open Government Licence).

Checking a Volvo Xc90 before you buy

Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.

Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests 2023 (Open Government Licence v3.0). Failure rates compare this model with all cars in the same age band. Fix prices are typical independent-garage estimates.
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