One problem related to transmission not go into gear has been reported for the 2003 Volvo XC90. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Volvo XC90 based on all problems reported for the 2003 XC90.
I purchased my 2003 Volvo Xc90 in April of 2005 with 36k miles. For the last 3 years, I have complained on various issues with the car's performance related to the vehicle's transmission. Pulling and jerking of the car when I proceed to accelerate, slow acceleration from stop, not being able to put the car in reverse, car only wanting to drive in third gear, and a high pitch noise. From oct 05 to March 2008 I made 8 visits to the dealer regarding these issues for which I was blown off and told that unless the light appeared they could not replace my transmission. At 87k miles I had it and took the car right to the service mgr who in turn told me that "Volvo is aware of this factory defect and regardless of whether I am in or out of my warranty, they would replace it once the light comes on. 4 months later, the dealership that I bought the car from (gwinnett place Volvo in duluth, GA) went out of business. On Wednesday, oct 7, 2009, the "service transmission urgent" light came on my 2003 Volvo Xc90 with 116k miles. After which I noticed the gear automatically shifting into 3rd gear. I immediately took the car to my local dealer dyer & dyer Volvo. They've kept the car for 2 weeks offering to request a "good will" request to Volvo north America to fix the car. Volvo north America has refused to fix the car which costs $7500 sighting that it is now of warranty. I contacted the executive office who told me that unless the car is recalled they will not fix my car. Yesterday I found approximately 1,973 complaints regarding this same issue on this make/model for years 2003-2006. Please please please recall this car and fine Volvo as they have offered no remorse whatsoever on this issue and are openly admitting 2 this factory defect but refuse to fix it. It's a hard pill to swallow when you purchase a car for $40k to only be able to drive it 75k miles with countless issues and trips to the dealer for service. Volvo's marketing pitch of dependability is fraud.