Power Train Problems of Volvo XC90 - part 2

Volvo XC90 owners have reported 73 problems related to power train (under the power train category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Volvo XC90 based on all problems reported for the XC90.

36 Power Train problem of the 2016 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 08/27/2016

The dashboard instrument panel suddenly went blank on a city street and the car could not accelerate more than about 5-10 miles per hour. It's frightening to imaging what would have happened if this occurred on a highway. Volvo's towing company put rear wheels on ground and damage all wheel drive system during towing. After stayed at dealership for a month but within 48 hours after pickup, a warning message "all wheel drive service required" popped up.

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37 Power Train problem of the 2016 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 06/26/2016

Around 10. 30 am on Sunday, 26th June 2016, I was driving on I-95 (near stamford CT) with my family when the car suddenly lost power, slowed down dramatically in the middle of I-95 and started to crawl at 10 miles/hour. We were in danger of being hit by a number of vehicles while I negotiated to exit the highway on exit 9 and pulled over into a side street. The instrumentation panel of the car had blanked out. The car could only crawl at about 10 miles/hour. It would not shift to higher gear even in manual mode. I called the Volvo on call and they advised me to switch off the car, exit the car and then re start the car after five minutes. I did that and the problem still persisted. I some how drove the car to the nearest Volvo dealership (stamford Volvo) which was closed on Sunday. Dropped the car off in the lot, rented a car and drove 200 miles back to boston.

38 Power Train problem of the 2016 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 06/16/2016

Tl- the contact owns 2016 Volvo Xc90. The VIN was not provided. The contact stated that while driving at 45 mph the vehicle decelerated, dropping down 5 mph and picked up speed again, without warning. The contact stated that the vehicle was equipped with autonomous braking system. The vehicle was towed to the midwestern auto group dealer (614-889-2571, located at 6335 perimeter loop rd, dublin, OH 43017) where the software was update. The failure recurred at 75 mph without warning. The contact called the byers Volvo dealer (614-864-0780, located at 301 n. Hamilton road, columbus, OH 43213) and scheduled an appointment for software update. The contact stated that her husband made the manufacturer aware of the failure and was referred to the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 220. Fe.

39 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 05/29/2016

2004 Volvo Xc90 sudden engine stall with lose of headlights: I was traveling on the interstate at night with the cruise set at 75 mph when suddenly it was like someone turned the ignition key to off for about 3 seconds, and then turned the key back on without restarting the engine. With all the warning lamps illuminated, and the engine at a stall I pulled into the emergency lane, and stopped. I then shifted to park and attempted to start the vehicle, where it took several attempts to start. The headlights did not stop working while pulling over, and when I stopped I switched the lights off before I restarted the engine. The first thing at mind was a fuel pump that was starting to act up. After restarting I revved the engine up a few quick times (to clear the engines throat). I then got back on the interstate accelerating to 75 mph , but doing so manually this time(no cruise control). About 10 min had passed when suddenly the engine started losing power as I was having to press the accelerator harder to maintain speed. While still coasting at 65 mph or so I placed the transmission into neutral, and attempted to restart the engine, when I turned the key to the start position I lost all the lights, I quickly released the key to the on position, and the lights remained off. I quickly pulled to the emergency lane and used the force to avoid the guardrail and the ditch. All the warning light were illuminated, and the engine was at a stall. I then turned the ignition key off and then back on, and that restored the headlights. It took 5-8 attempts to restart the engine, and again I'm thinking fuel pump acting up. Each time I attempted to restart the engine it would spit and sputter like if the fuel pump were only delivering half the pressure needed for the fuel injectors. After the engine restarted I made it home, and the problem has not arisen since,.

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40 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 05/28/2016

Car moved to right when applying brakes. Car clunks when making turns. Car very noisy when going over bumps/ potholes.

41 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 04/28/2016

Transmission is defective and fails every 50,000 miles without warning which could lead to an accident as vehicle becomes inoperable (stops and cannot be moved) this is the 3rd transmission installed in the vehicle by Volvo. Each of the transmissions have failed around 50,000 miles without warning.

42 Power Train problem of the 2007 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 01/18/2016

Transmission longer to shift between gear shifts (takes longer to accelerate).

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43 Power Train problem of the 2005 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 07/10/2015

4x4 awd system is not working, car spinning with the front wheels,very dangerous in winter time. Angle gear sleeve which is stripped out. Very common problem with Xc90 2. 5t. Parts and labor close to 1000. 00.

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44 Power Train problem of the 2008 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 06/23/2015

Loud clunking noises coming from front end of vehicle, vehicle diagnosed by a licensed mechanic to be drive axles warn out, with relatively low low miles I contacted Volvo dealer and would do nothing but charge for replacements and further diagnosis. Premature failure of drive axles can create an unstable driving incident. Which is why I am filing this complaint . It seems that all these parts are on backorder everywhere which makes me think there must be a serious issue with this.

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45 Power Train problem of the 2006 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 03/09/2015

Have researched this car after I bought it used from a small dealership and seems like a large problem with all types of Volvo's. I had my car for a couple days, shop noticed there was an oil leak. Turned out to be the rear main seal. Dealership would not fix it even though it was within warranty. Saved up for 2 months straight to pay $1100 cash out of pocket to get it fixed by my personal mechanic. Right before I took it in to get the work done, the transmission was shifting hard while driving in city. Highway it was fine. Had the seal replaced, transmission flushed before putting back together thinking it would solve problem. Nope! so I saved up once again to go to the actual Volvo dealership and pay $200 out of pocket for a reflash ed and software update on the transmission. Didn't work! looked up other possible problems that could be causing transmission to shift weird. . . Numerous complaints online about other petes Volvo's doing the same thing! so why hasn't Volvo done a recall on this transmission? it's a matter of time before I myself or someone else is driving and the thing slams into park or any other gear and cause an accident. I'm scared to drive my own car and I'm to the point where I can't dump anymore money into it and have to trade it in for a different car. Please help and make Volvo recall the transmissions before myself or my husband and 2 kids die because of their negligence!!.

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46 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 01/15/2015

Tl- the contact owns a 2004 Volvo Xc90. The contact stated that while driving at any speed, the vehicle jerked and lost power. The contact also heard water running on the right passenger's side door and underneath the dashboard. The air bags light remained on. The contact notified a local dealer (by phone) and was told to bring the vehicle into the shop for an inspection. The vehicle was neither taken to the dealer nor repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 113,00. The VIN was not provided. Fe.

47 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 01/14/2015

The contact owns a 2004 Volvo Xc90. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed, the vehicle stopped independently. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the tie rod needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 150,000.

48 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 07/30/2014

Tl - the contact owns a 2004 Volvo Xc90. The contact stated while driving 55 mph his vehicle stalled intermittently. The contact mentioned the instrument panel and radio would shut off and the wipers would come on. The contact stated the abs brake and the anti skid traction control failure warning text illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 104,000. Bt.

49 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 07/24/2014

As I was taking my kids home the truck went into limp mode even though it was still in drive leaving me and my two kids stranded in the middle of the highway my daughter and I had to actually push the vehicle off the road to safety. Now I find out that it needs a new transmission which we aren't able to locate.

50 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 07/14/2014

Tl-the contact owns a 2004 Volvo Xc90. The contact stated that while driving 65 mph, the engine feels like it gears down like someone applied the brakes without warning. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or repaired and the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. VIN was not provided. The failure mileage was 135,000. Ed.

51 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 06/10/2014

Tl - the contact owns a 2004 Volvo Xc90. The contact stated while driving 70 mph if the vehicle hits a bump or the contacts knee hit the key the vehicle would lose power and shut off. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable. Bt.

52 Power Train problem of the 2005 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 12/26/2013

Known transmission defect with this model has manifested itself in my vehicle. Car began lurching when accelerating and transitioning into the next gear while attempting to merge onto a busy interstate highway. Dealer diagnosed the problem and states that the transmission needs to be replaced. Apparently Volvo has acknowledged this defect with the power-train and in 2012 agreed to settle a class action lawsuit with regards to this problem. This fact however only impacts those who previously paid to have this problem fixed. Still no recall regarding this potentially hazardous issue for those currently impacted. All vehicles equipped with their original transmissions need to be recalled (2003, 2004 and 2005).

53 Power Train problem of the 2008 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 10/30/2013

Excessive vibration/shaking in the drive train of a v8 engine Xc90 during light/moderate acceleration (severe shaking during full throttle acceleration). According to a number of Volvo dealer service advisors, this vibration/shaking has been a 'major issue' caused by failing right side front axles (350. 00) &/or failing transmission valve bodies ($3500. 00). Given that this appears to be a major mechanical flaw according to Volvo dealer service, why hasn't these dangerous drive train issues been addressed as a mandatory recall??.

54 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 08/25/2013

While driving 70 mph on I-5 we heard a loud thump in the engine compartment and we suddenly went to about 25 mph all of our electronic systems shut down, there was an extremely loud grinding sound for approx. 2-3 seconds. Now I think my transmission is damaged and the electronics system shuts down pretty frequently. I am totally disappointed to read that this has happened to numerous other families. Thank god no one has died from this. . . . . This is very irresponsible and negligent from a reputable auto company. Is it going to take someone or family to get seriously injured or die before they acknowledge this very serious issue. Its time for someone to be accountable for this.

55 Power Train problem of the 2008 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 06/25/2013

Tl-the contact owns a 2008 Volvo Xc90. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 mph, the vehicle starting to make a shaking motion. The failure recurred numerous times intermittently. The vehicle was taken to a dealer for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was able to be diagnosed. The failure persisted, and the vehicle was taken to a dealer for diagnostic testing. The mechanic stated that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 69,000. Mf.

56 Power Train problem of the 2005 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 02/14/2013

At 111,000 thousand miles the counter balance shaft bearing went inside the motor. I did a little research on line and found out that it is a design problem, that Volvo knows about. It could cost any where from $5000. 00 to $15000. 00. I believe that they should be forced to do a recall for this known problem, and help there customers with the repairs. Thank you for your help in this matter.

57 Power Train problem of the 2005 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 11/14/2012

Volvo knows the v8 engine on the 2005 Xc90 is faulty. Specifically, the counterbalance shaft bearing failing due to water intrusion. Fortunately mine failed while at idle. Unfortunately the entire engine is now seized up and my otherwise clean car is a large and useless paperweight. If this were to happen while the car is moving at speed, it could cause a horrible accident. Unless Volvo actively finds the remaining engines in service and fixes this problem, it remains a risk regardless of the mileage. Appropriately, they should also reimburse anyone who was affected by this problem since they learned of it back in 2005.

58 Power Train problem of the 2005 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 07/11/2012

The transmission in this vehicle is slipping. Trying to pass a car on the highway and could not get the car into gear. Note: the VIN # [xxx] - but I can't validate it on this form but it is the correct number. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

59 Power Train problem of the 2007 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 05/26/2012

Despite Volvo's knowledge of problems with the Xc90 transmission, when it failed completely, I took it to an aamco dealer because there was no local Volvo dealer. The tach was all the way to the right and the wheels would do nothing. It was very dangerous. Despite have the extended 100k warranty, and this prior knowledge, Volvo corporate refused to assist in any way with the $6k cost of the repairs because I didn't have it repaired at a Volvo dealer. I was told by aamco that it was dangerous to be driving. I would never own another Volvo of any type.

60 Power Train problem of the 2005 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 01/17/2012

The trains has gone and it only has 66,000 miles on it cost to fix $ 5500. 00.

61 Power Train problem of the 2003 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 12/12/2011

I had the transmission service engine light come on. I took it to the mechanic and he said the coolant has leaked into to the transmission causing the transmission to give out. They said it needs replaced at a cost of 6000. This would be the 3 rd transmission in this car alone. Their are multiple people with the same problem. This is Volvox fault and it needs replaced on their dime.

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62 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 10/26/2011

I purchased this vehicle thinking it would be a life long vehicle considering I had already purchased a reliable Volvo car in the past, the urgent service transmission appeared and I took it to a local transmission shop (being that there is no local dealership) as soon as the message appeared the transmission started to skip constantly causing a hazard, and then confirmed that the transmission needs to be replaced. I have done extensive research on the internet and I came to find that many of your Xc90 transmissions fail and I would like to know how Volvo north America stands behind their vehicles in these situations. I would like to continue being a Volvo owner but being that I will be forced to spend thousands on a defect from Volvo it will make me think twice. I hope somebody can help me with this.

63 Power Train problem of the 2011 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 07/18/2011

From the beginning this vehicle has delayed acceleration, very dangerous to drive when pulling out in front of on-coming traffic, or making left hand turn with on-coming traffic. Brakes make loud cracking popping sound when braking and turning the wheel, do not feel safe with it making such awful sounds.

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64 Power Train problem of the 2011 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 05/01/2011

Shortly after we purchased our 2011 Volvo Xc90 brand new we have experienced a lags in acceleration. When accelerating the car would roll very slowly unless the accelerator pedal was completely floored. We waited until our routine oil change was due to have it checked out, and we were told by the dealer that they could not recreate the circumstance. They told us they would update the car's computer which seemed to work briefly, but shortly after the lagging began again. It eventually became more and more common and now it is happening many times a week. After observing these lags in acceleration we have come to the conclusion that this occurs whenever you stop to make a turn. I have been doing research for some time now and reports are just now starting to appear. It is definitely something that needs to be looked into.

65 Power Train problem of the 2003 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 08/29/2010

Leaving a parking lot and heard loud sound car wouldn't move. Volvo says the following is broken: lower control arm, cv axle, rotor and damaged rim. We had been parked and were attempting to leaving parking lot(. Barely moving) could have been killed if this happened at higher speed. We have constantly spent money on this vehicle and I feel it is unsafe and that when the recalls were made there could have already been a fracture. This car is only driven to work and home on a regular basis. No rough roads. We have not caused any damage. This website does not allow proper selection under Volvo and make to allow selection of the suspension/control arm / rotors / axle / tire rims / ball joint, all of which were damaged in this 4 mph accident. Had this happened at 65 mph I have no doubt me and my family would not have survived.

66 Power Train problem of the 2004 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 07/04/2010

We just purchased a 2004 Volvo Xc90 t6 on June 2, 2010 from a private seller who originally purchased the vehicle and have it maintained fully at rickenbaugh Volvo in denver. We are first time owners of a Volvo vehicle. The car currently has 76,783 miles on it. After just owning the vehicle for 4 weeks and adding just 400 miles on the vehicle, the check engine light went on and while driving to the rickenbaugh Volvo service station, a message came up with 'urgent transmission service required'. We were told by the service manager that the car needs new transmission with radiator, oil cooler and oil cooler lines in the amount of $7,800. 00. My wife and I were shocked and decided to take the vehicle home because we cannot afford this expense after just saving money for a year to purchase the vehicle 4 weeks ago. The vehicle was fully serviced at rickenbaugh and a 75,000 mile service was done on may, 2010. We went and searched the internet for problems with 2004 Volvo Xc90 and found that there are a lot of reports of transmission issues/problems. Please call me at [xxx] . [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

67 Power Train problem of the 2005 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 04/10/2009

I have a 2005 Volvo Xc90 t6. Bought this car brand new. Had so many problems including transmission out; the blinkers do not work. The quality and safety of this vehicle is misleading and this is a horrible safety issue since blinker don't work. Looking into it, seems like this is an ongoing issue with many owner of Volvo Xc90 2005. They really need to recall this before it's too late and cause fatalities.

68 Power Train problem of the 2005 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 01/20/2009

I have the ill fated Xc90 t6. . . Like clockwork at 53000 miles the dreaded transmission service urgent light comes on. . . . Now I am supposed to fork over 7000 bucks for a completely defective transmission!.

69 Power Train problem of the 2007 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 08/08/2008

Tl- the contact owns a 2007 Volvo Xc90. The contact stated while driving 45 mph he attempted to accelerate; however, the vehicle failed to move forward. The contact heard a loud banging noise and the vehicle began moving forward. The failure recurred numerous times. The vehicle was taken to a dealer several times over the course of five years but no cause for failure was found. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The VIN was unavailable. The failure mileage was 40,000 and the current mileage was 93,000. Rvk.

70 Power Train problem of the 2003 Volvo XC90

Failure Date: 07/19/2008

Volvo Xc90 taken into dealership for axle replacement on 07/09/08 contacted that the transmission will be replaced then when question given vague statement no will be a transmission flush. Car returned on 07/16/08 advised given new transmission. Driving car on 07/19/08 come to a stop to cross 4 lane parkway when hit gas pedal car does not respond receive message reduce engine performance. After much research this is a known problem with the Volvo transmission in this model manufacturer refuses to acknowledge.



XC90 Service Bulletins
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XC90 Defect Investigations