"Dismantling" Volvo XC90: is it worth buying an old "premium" at the price of a new "state employee"? Weaknesses and shortcomings of the Volvo XC90 Exterior and interior.

03.09.2019

The history of the model

The Volvo xc90 brand car was first demonstrated in 2002 at the Detroit Auto Show. Prior to this, the range of cars produced by Volvo could boast only one passenger car with all-wheel drive - the Volvo V70, currently - the Volvo XC70.

By the way, Volvo is developing autonomous cars and plans to transfer all its new cars to autonomous operation by 2020.

Volvo XC90 was presented by manufacturers as a parquet seven-seat SUV with all-wheel drive. The concept of "parquet" is used, since the car cannot be called a full-fledged SUV - rather, it is a mid-size crossover. Off-road qualities in it were given out by a powerful engine, high ground clearance and a modern electronic all-wheel drive system. The car is based on the same platform as the Volvo S60, S70 and S80 - P2.

The Volvo XC90 has won several awards, including North American Car of the Year in 2003 and Luxury SUV of the Year in 2011.

Main characteristics

Appearance

The appearance of the car is very solid: the original body design, clearly defined lines, high ground clearance. The exterior of the 2012-2014 model range has changed quite noticeably: the Volvo XC90 received a new grille and bumper, as well as an updated shape of the wheel arches and moldings. And over the entire body surface there is a large number of chrome trims. The presentability of the appearance of the car is also given by a large flat hood and new optics of the original form.

Curb weight - no more than 2075 kg, ground clearance - 218 mm. Dimensions for all modifications are identical: 4807x1936x1784 mm.

Salon

The interior is spacious, originally designed for 5 seats. For an additional fee, you can add another row to get a seven-seater crossover. Even in the basic configuration, the interior looks very elegant. When looking at the front panel, you can see a number of design solutions: inserts in leather, aluminum, chrome steel or mahogany.

The trim of the interior parts is made of the Flaming Birch variety of wood, which grows near the Arctic Circle and has unusual patterns in the shape of a wave. Parts of the wood are hand-picked for each car to match the pattern and tone with the rest of the interior. The interior also uses real aluminum, pre-polished in opposite directions, which makes it shine in the sun.

Between the driver and the passenger there is a large panel where the air conditioning system, telephone, radio tape recorder are located. The instrument control buttons are located on the steering wheel. Rear passengers can switch music using the audio control unit.

The special coating of the touch display allows it to respond to the touch of gloved hands.

Specifications

For the Russian market, Volvo used to offer a wide range of engines. But since 2013, the Volvo XC90 has been equipped with only 2 types: gasoline and diesel. Each type of engine has its own Geartronic automatic transmission. For modifications with a gasoline unit, a five-speed transmission is provided, for a diesel version - a six-speed automatic.

The T5 gasoline engine has 5 cylinders, their total volume is 2.5 liters. Power -210 hp at 5000 rpm, which is achieved thanks to modern electronic systems, a turbocharger with an air intercooler system and a variable-type intake and exhaust valve synchronization system. Torque - 320 Hm, thanks to which the crossover accelerates to a speed of 100 km / h in 9.9 seconds. 210 km / h - maximum speed. Fuel consumption in the city is about 15.7 liters, on the highway - 9 liters, for mixed mode - 11.4 liters.

The D5 turbodiesel is economical, made mainly of aluminum. Power - 200 hp at 3900 rpm. For a diesel engine, 5 cylinders are provided, the total volume is 2.4 liters. Good acceleration dynamics provides a torque of 420 Hm. Thanks to this, the six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission makes the most of its power. The D5 engine is equipped with a Common Rail system for fuel injection and a turbine with the ability to change geometry. Fuel consumption in the city - 10.6 l., 6.7 l. - on the track and 8, 1 l. with mixed driving. You can accelerate to 100 km / h in 10.3 seconds. 205 km / h is the maximum speed.

Complete set

For the Russian market, there are 3 configuration options:

Standard. The range of options offered is rich: climate control, immobilizer, full power accessories, cruise control, air conditioning, stabilization system, ABS, alarm, alloy wheels, airbags for the driver and passengers. Price - from 1 million 800 thousand rubles. R design. Sports version, characterized by rigid suspension and original body kit. Price - from 2 million 70 thousand rubles. executive. The maximum equipment of the car with an elegant leather interior. Price - from 2 million 200 thousand rubles.

Vehicle operating experience

Advantages noted by the owners

Volvo XC90 reviews are mostly positive. Among the advantages of car owners note:

stylish and ergonomic interior;
large trunk;
lack of roll in corners;
soft running of the car;
comfortable driver's seat with a large number of adjustments.

The SUV-class Volvo XC90 was first introduced at the Detroit Auto Show in 2002. The model is based on the P2-platform, on which many other overall Swedish-made cars are based, for example, the Volvo S80. The model has become widespread in Europe. The SUV was also loved by domestic drivers. The Volvo XC90 has acquired all the characteristics and properties typical of Scandinavian cars.

The car has outstanding passing capabilities, which is highly valued by domestic motorists. The dimensions and dimensions of the SUV are impressive: the length reaches 4.8 meters, and the wheelbase is an impressive 2.8 meters. At the same time, the SUV has not lost its dynamism: acceleration to 100 km / h is possible in just 8 seconds, which, taking into account the mass of the vehicle, is considered an excellent indicator. Before purchasing a brand new crossover, which is being produced today in the second generation, or buying a car in the secondary market, it is best to immediately familiarize yourself with the resource of the Volvo XC90 engine.

Power units SUV-SUV

The first generation of the model was equipped with a 2.5-liter 209-horsepower turbocharged engine, which included 20 valves. The engine was mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. Simultaneously with the modification of 2.5T, another version of the SUV was released - T6. It included a 2.9-liter 24-valve engine with a rated power of 272 horsepower. This engine was paired with a 4-band automatic. With the release of the second generation of the model, a 2-liter diesel Drive-E engine and a turbocharged four-cylinder analogue were added to the line of power units of the car.

The range of Volvo XC90 engines of all generations:

2.0-liter gasoline and turbodiesel power unit for 235 forces;
2.4-liter D5 engine with 163 hp;
2.5-liter engine with a capacity of 209 forces;
2.9-liter unit with a capacity of 272 horsepower;
3.2-liter engine with a rated power of 238 hp;
4.4-liter engine 315 forces at 5850 rpm.

In 2005, the manufacturer expanded the range of engines by adding an atmospheric engine with a working volume of 4.4 liters to it. Two years later, for those who want to get a reliable SUV, a modification of the Volvo XC90 with a 3.2-liter engine became available. Power units XC90 are located transversely. This is done for greater safety of the driver and passengers. In the event of a strong impact, the installations go down.

Swedish-made diesel plants are known for their reliability and unpretentiousness. The 2.4-liter diesel of the D5 engine family is equipped with a swirl flap that improves the quality of combustion of the fuel-air mixture. Owners of an SUV with low mileage in rare cases feel problems associated with possible malfunctions of the mechanism. But drivers who have driven more than 100 thousand kilometers on the odometer on the XC90 will be at risk of coming face to face with the first gaps. The swirl flap is one of the weak points of Volvo diesel engines.

Experts agree that the service life of the dampers is primarily affected by the quality of car maintenance. The vortex elements tend to burst, oily deposits often form on them, which in most cases is associated with the use of non-original low-quality engine oil.

Problems with the damper negatively affect the throttle response and power of the diesel engine. Most often, the presence of a problem with the device is indicated by the dashboard, on which it lights up in the event of a malfunction in the Check Engine auto system. Otherwise, these are high-quality power plants capable of covering more than 380 thousand kilometers. It is very important to undergo maintenance on time, due to the regulated replacement of engine oil, air, fuel filters and other consumables, it is possible to fully develop the resource laid down by the manufacturer.

Petrol naturally aspirated engines Volvo XC90 are more popular among Russian motorists. The reason is obvious - they are less in demand for high-quality fuel, they are easier to repair and cheaper to maintain. What should not be neglected is the replacement of the lubricant, which must necessarily comply with the requirements and recommendations of the car manufacturer. The resource of Volvo atmospheric units easily reaches the milestone of 450 thousand kilometers.

But some installations have their own "chronic diseases". For example, a 4.4-liter engine loves to “eat” oil, and owners also note constant smudges of lubricant through oil seals and various rubber seals. Solving such problems is quite simple. In most cases, the repair of gasoline engines comes down to replacing the cylinder head gasket and replacing the timing drive. On engines 3.2 and 4.4, a timing chain is installed as a drive. Its resource is at least 120 thousand kilometers. In general, gasoline power plants are of high quality and unpretentious. With proper maintenance, 450 and more thousand km pass.

Owner reviews

Most of the complaints among the owners of the Volvo XC90 received a 2.9-liter turbocharged engine. The in-line "eight" is equipped with the same oil pump as in the 2.5-liter diesel engine, but the engine includes two turbines and received one extra cylinder compared to its smaller counterpart. The pipes leading to the turbines are often clogged with various deposits, and the power of the oil pump itself is clearly not enough to meet all the needs of the engine system.

Inefficient cooling of the working parts of the engine, as well as oil starvation, are obvious reasons why this engine often fails. At the same time, the installation is aggregated with a 4-speed automatic American-made GM. Many car owners and automotive experts agree that the manufacturer did not choose the most successful layout. The problems of the engine with a displacement of 2.9 liters, as well as the reliability of other Volvo XC90 installations, will be described in detail by the owners' reviews.

Engine 2.0

Maxim, Stavropol. I own a Volvo XC90 with a T5 engine - a working volume of 2.0 liters. Car 2008 release. I think the advantage of the motor is the presence of a direct fuel injection system. This is a fairly economical option, but lovers of high-speed driving are unlikely to suit. Still, a two-liter engine is not enough for such a colossus. As a worthy alternative, I see a new 3.2-liter unit. It is moderately economical, and also quite reliable. As for the installation resource. For the entire period of operation of the SUV has passed 200,000 kilometers. I changed the timing drive, as well as consumables: filters, engine oil, and so on. There were no problems with the car. I recommend this modification of a car to everyone, if dynamism is not as important for you as saving money at a gas station.
Igor, Chita. I have a second generation XC90 with a 2.0 liter engine. By car has passed more than 150 thousand kilometers. The service was carried out exclusively at the dealer. I must say right away that maintaining such a car is not a cheap pleasure. I had to replace the CV joint and rear wheel bearings. The suspension of the car, in my opinion, is unreliable, or our roads are too bad. The chassis of the "Scandinavian" is clearly not adapted to our conditions. I also replaced the front shock absorbers, a new set cost 5,000 rubles. The engine runs like clockwork.
Vyacheslav, Moscow. As for me, this is the best engine from the XC90 line of diesel units. It is elastic, quiet, powerful - 235 horses make themselves felt. Is he reliable? I can't unequivocally answer this question, since my SUV is practically new. During the passage of TO 2, I asked the masters about the quality of this modification, they told me that there are already copies with the new 2.0 engine that have successfully passed 150 - 200 thousand.

The structurally improved engine is rightfully one of the best Volvo diesel installations. The successful design of the unit contributes to its longer life expectancy. On domestic roads today you can already find instances of the CX90 2.0 with a mileage of more than 150,000 kilometers.

Engine 2.4

Kirill, St. Petersburg. I have an SUV with a diesel engine D5244T4. The car is reliable, and I had no complaints about the engine up to the first 100 thousand kilometers. Once, I felt that the traction on the car was gone, while the turbine did not turn on in any way. As a result, I had to go for diagnostics and pay for expensive repairs. The problem was in the EGR valve and swirl flaps. The specialists said that the valve did not close completely, they repaired it, but just a few months later the problem again made itself felt. In the end, turned it off, wasted a lot of money and time. Now the mileage is 230 thousand kilometers.
Valery, Tula. What I don’t like about the modification of the XC90 with a 2.4 diesel engine is the weakness of both the installation itself and the aggregated box. Repair of the machine costs about $ 2,000, you need to fill in high-quality, original oil. I have had the car since 2010. I have already changed the SAS sensor (it cost 5 thousand rubles), changed the rear wheel hub, changed the timing chain. In general, there were a lot of minor repairs. Now on the odometer 160 thousand kilometers. Perhaps the engine will pass 350 thousand kilometers, but during this time you will have to endure with it.
Yuri, Chelyabinsk. I have a 2007 Volvo XC90, I took the car from a relative in a well-groomed condition. Today, the mileage is 210 thousand km. I drive a car both in winter and in summer. There are no complaints about the build quality of the car, as well as the reliability of the power unit. I change the oil approximately every 10 thousand kilometers, fill in the original 0W30, I don’t have to top it up. I changed the chain and the rear hub (the problematic place of the model). There were no more costs. In general, a good car, but extremely sensitive to difficult operating conditions.

The Volvo XC90 diesel power unit is demanding on the quality of consumables. It is necessary to undergo scheduled maintenance of the car on time in order to prevent the occurrence of serious engine malfunctions. If the deadlines for the passage of regulated maintenance are observed, the diesel will cover about 350 thousand kilometers.

Motor 2.5

Ivan, Perm. I have a Volvo XC90 in the first generation with a B5254T2 engine, I won’t say that this is the best engine in the ninetieth range of installations. I've been driving an SUV since 2002. The total mileage today is 280 thousand kilometers. Of the weaknesses of a diesel engine - an unreliable timing belt. There were cases when he was torn after 50 thousand kilometers. Fortunately, that fate has passed me by. But I recommend that you regularly inspect the drive and replace it in time, best of all, do not delay it, since the quality of the belt in the Volvo XC90 really leaves much to be desired. One of my acquaintances has the same model, so the connecting rod bolt of the third cylinder completely unscrewed, the second bolt broke off and the flying connecting rod pierced the cylinder. It remains only to guess whether this is a factory defect or inept service.
Nikita, Moscow. On his XC90 drove 140 thousand kilometers. Recently changed the timing belt for the second time. On average, the service life of the element is 70 thousand. Simultaneously with the drive, he replaced the pump, the master noted the backlash, and it would have flowed a little more. The new belt was installed with the original article 8627484, tensioner, pump and rollers. Also during this time changed seals: rear camshaft, intake camshaft, front crankshaft. There were no more jobs. In general, I believe that the installation is capable of traveling 350-400 thousand km, if it is given due attention.
Egor, Volgograd. 5 years have passed since the purchase of the Volvo XC90 with a 2.5-liter turbo engine. The odometer is 80k today. The power of 210 forces is enough for the quiet operation of the car on city and country roads. Diesel is rough and noisy. Even after changing the oil, the smoothness of its operation does not increase. I use only the original lubricant. Oil has to be added little by little. The dealership said that 700 grams per 1 tyk is the norm. In general, the car is not bad, despite the fact that it works noisily - it goes smoothly along the highway, like a passenger car. What changed: candles, filters, timing belt, generator. I am sure that more than 400 thousand km will pass.

A weak timing belt is the main problem with a 2.5-liter installation. The owners note that the gas distribution mechanism drive is able to fail after 50-70 thousand kilometers. It is important to monitor the technical condition of the modification. Full and proper maintenance will allow the motor to work throughout the entire declared resource.

Motor 2.9

Yaroslav, Nizhny Novgorod. The resource of the Volvo XC90 engine is in strict correlation with high-quality and timely service. Many people complain about the high cost of maintenance, but I think that the prices are quite reasonable considering the cost of the car. You can change the oil at the dealer for 10,000 rubles. Fill in only the original. Diesel is sensitive to fuel quality, I prefer to refuel on Luka DT. The oil in the box needs to be changed after 30-40 thousand. Any operation of the car requires costs. Costs vary depending on driving style. Potentially, diesel is able to overcome about 450-500 thousand kilometers.
Sergey, Yekaterinburg. Great car with a Nordic character, non-capricious, persistent. Acquired XC90 in the maximum configuration three years ago. The car at that time was with a range of 50 thousand km. From the previous owner got in good condition, there were no visible and invisible problems with it. The rear hub bearing suffers from poor road quality and had to be replaced when the car had traveled a total of 70,000 km. Diesel is loud, but torquey. It pulls uphill, and there were no problems with overcoming obstacles.
Alexey, Minsk. Over the years of owning Volvo, I had a pleasant experience. I bought the car in Moscow a year ago for $35,000. SUV 2003 release with the engine 2.9. The car has already covered 180,000 kilometers. Weak belt, often have to be replaced simultaneously with rollers and pump. But in terms of dynamics, the XC90 is beautiful, there is something to compare with. I used to drive a Range Rover and Ford Galaxy, and I didn’t get such a drive from driving. Diesel is not bad, but requires increased attention and appropriate care.

The 2.9 engine is able to fully satisfy the needs of off-road enthusiasts. The weaknesses of the modification include the unsuccessful combination of the power plant with the "Jiem" gearbox. The powerful 2.9-liter engine overwhelms the weak machine with its revving. The box does not like off-road trips, it is sensitive to overheating. However, with a dimensional and calm driving style, a full development of a resource of 380 - 400 thousand km is possible.

Engine 3.2

Andrey, Voronezh. I prefer to pour Valvoline Synpower 5W40 into my SUV. With this lubricant, the motor runs stably without any excesses. Car 2007, mileage 220,000 kilometers. Externally, the motor looks like new. No drips, working fluids are always at a normal level. You don’t have to add lubricant, although, as the service station masters say, after two hundred thousand, the engine begins to “eat” oil. In addition to replacing consumables, no more unscheduled work was not.
Albert, Sochi. Modification of the motor of my car B6324S, volume 3.2 liters. The installation appeared relatively recently on the world stage, and to be precise, in 2007. It was then that I bought the "Scandinavian". This is one of the most reliable XC90 engines. The gasoline unit feels good with our AI-95. The chain runs smoothly for 120 thousand km. But be sure to regularly check its condition, and also listen to the work of the “heart” of the car, if it suddenly starts pounding, or a clatter appears, immediately change the drive. Today, the figure flaunts 270,000 km on the odometer. A resource of 400 - 450 thousand is quite real.
Vasily, Moscow. If you don’t know which engine to buy a car with, definitely pay attention to the modification with a 3.2-liter B6324S engine. This is a high-quality power unit, with the operation of which there will be no problems in Moscow and throughout Russia. Yes, the service is expensive, but if you meet the deadlines, there will be no problems. On my car, I have already overcome over 220 thousand kilometers. Traveled several times on long journeys, the car never failed.

The atmospheric power plant with a volume of 3.2 liters is one of the most optimal versions of the engine for operation in Russia. The owners note not only the high build quality, but also the excellent dynamic performance of the SUV modification. The resource is more than 400,000 kilometers.

Power unit 4.4

Anatoly, Volgograd. Initially, the SUV was purchased by my wife, but, to be honest, I myself enjoy driving the XC90. I like the character of this car, it is powerful and assertive. Since 2005, I have changed the timing chain twice, it tends to stretch due to constant loads. I pour the oil recommended by the manufacturer 0W30. There were no major problems with the engine. I constantly add 500 g of engine oil for every thousand kilometers. Crankshaft seals often leak.
Leonid, Krasnodar. Modification with a 4.4-liter engine from Yamaha. Around the XC90 there is a large number of negative reviews, and all because of the bad reputation of problematic versions with 2.4 and 2.5 engines. This is an ideal car for everyday use, unless, of course, you are not embarrassed by the car's fuel consumption. There were absolutely no problems with the engine. I adhere to a calm driving style, I have already driven 230 thousand km, during this time I have changed oil seals, filters, oil and timing chain.
Semyon, Yegorievsk. Car 2006, V8, 315 horses, mileage 240,000 kilometers. The oil level keeps from replacement to replacement: I fill in ACEA A5 / B5S AE 0W-30 Longlife. The dynamics of the SUV is not offended - it tears well from a place. Traveled several times over long distances: Sochi, Rostov. Comfortable driving, fuel consumption is moderate for such a colossus - 10 liters. Nothing but the replacement of consumables was not. Great engine in a great car.

The 4.4-liter gasoline unit also has a high resource - about 400 thousand kilometers. You can extend the trouble-free life of the motor by using original consumables. It is also important to use a lubricant recommended by the manufacturer or an equally high-quality analogue.

And then came the turn of the new large XC90 crossover, which for a long time remained the de facto flagship of the lineup.

Almost immediately, the car received very good reviews for a first-class interior, good handling and safety by crossover standards. And with the seven-seat version, success as a family car in Europe and especially in the States was a matter of time. At first, the car was offered only with petrol turbo engines - in-line "five" 2.5 and "six" 2.9.

Over time, diesel engines, a gasoline V8 4.4 were added to them, and after restyling in 2007, an excellent in-line “six” 3.2 was also added. All-wheel drive, which all cars in Russia are equipped with, is not the only option in the USA. Cars with 2.5 engine and only front-wheel drive were offered, but most buyers opted for all-wheel drive even for the base engine, so finding a front-wheel drive XC90 is as difficult as a green leaf on the street in January.

The commonality of the platform with the first-generation Volvo S80 sedan also means similarity in basic features and “sores”. And yet - a high class in decoration and equipment. The Swedes did not indulge in the use of aluminum in the construction, but their steel almost does not rust, the body is perfectly covered with a layer of paint and numerous plastic structures, and it’s not worth talking about durability. Often the XC90 easily endures such shocks, after which even purebred German cars would go to a landfill.

Volvo S80 first generation

Unfortunately, the payback for strength is a rather large mass - even a base car with a 2.5 engine weighs at least 2,100 kg, and in-line "sixes" in top trim levels can pull all 2,250 kg. The design of the suspension has not changed compared to sedans, but almost all the elements are different here - the other ground clearance and the strong difference in weight also affect. But here exactly the same motors, transmissions and the same problems. The only difference is that the car is heavier and the transmission, for example, is much more loaded, which caused the appearance of specific difficulties that are not found in passenger cars. Everything that has been said about the build quality of the body and interior of the flagship is valid for a large crossover. There are not so many miscalculations: weak hatch drainage, light skin that rubs easily, and not very successful wiring to external electronic elements. The minimum number of problems with the climate control unit and fine motor skills of the cabin.

The suspensions are just as adequately tuned, the car is very imposing by European standards, but the character is completely safe and predictable, and there is a margin of comfort. Against the background of overseas competitors, the car looked cheerful, and against the background of European ones, it was simply worthy. By the way, former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson is a long-time XC90 connoisseur, he had three of them, and he does not like cars without character. Long life for any car is a test. The crossover went through a complete restyling in 2006, when a new engine appeared and the old ones were slightly updated, and then through a whole series of small improvements in 2009–2012. Since 2010, the company has already been owned by the Chinese Geely, and the lack of funds to update the lineup has resulted in the next modernization of the bestseller. By the way, it is clearly seen that the years did not damage the car, and until the very end it remained in demand and stylish. Unless multimedia capabilities began to lag behind even with restyling and in the end were no longer very relevant, but fortunately, this car was not loved at all for this.

In Russia, the popularity of the XC90 had another reason. The 2.5 turbo engine turned out to be the very lifesaver that provided a large flow of re-exports from the States. Indeed, after a volume of 2.5 liters, the price of customs clearance rose sharply, and the low value of the dollar until 2008 contributed to a massive influx of cars from across the ocean. Here, a corrosively strong, all-wheel drive and beautiful car came in handy. Due to the nuances of customs, it turned out to be consistently cheaper than even purely American models, not to mention the initially more expensive "Europeans".

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Technique and its features

One way or another, all components and assemblies have already been considered in the reviews and, and I will try not to repeat myself in too much detail. At the moment, the car can be considered one of the most successful premium crossovers in operation, given the number and cost of breakdowns. And the popular rumor about the highest prices for everything at Volvo is only partly right, the lack of non-original components for many nodes is compensated by the availability of spare parts for dismantling. And there are non-original components for the transmission, chassis and motors, and the price is quite sparing.

Body

As I already wrote, covered with plastic “armor” and a good layer of paint, it is almost not afraid of corrosion. Small pockets of rust occur at the points of contact between plastic and steel parts and at the points of installation of fastening clips. Oddly enough, it is recommended to check the attachment points of the front subframe and the front spars. Due to the large mass of the body, the tightness of the seams is often violated here, and the high temperature of the motor and constant humidity will bring the matter to an end - loose rust will slowly gnaw the body in the most inconspicuous place.

Moreover, everything was usually restored on time for a responsible owner, but there are enough cars that did not know good service. In the risk zone and cars that drive into the mud, sand accumulates under the rubber bands of various seals on such specimens, which can lead to the development of corrosion foci. Of course, after a body repair, they can have many other problems, but even in this case, a good layer of anti-corrosion primer usually saves from corrosion on the oldest cars.

Electrical and salon

There are almost no serious problems with internal wiring, only the drainage of the hatch can spoil the nerves, and the clogged drainage of the engine shield can cause fatal failures of the control units. Even Volvo's CAN-bus multiplex wiring does not cause trouble, does not drain the battery, and does not finish various blocks with “glitches”.

Here the all-wheel drive clutch control unit “dies” here with enviable regularity. It suffers from sealing incoming wiring - it is strongly recommended to remove it and coat it with sealant every few years, do not rely on cracking compound and gum. The problems of flooding the control units in the cabin and the CEM module are somewhat exaggerated - they fail due to corrosion, but it is not necessarily associated with flooding the unit due to drainage. Malfunctions are often found on machines with perfectly clean drain holes, spending most of their lives in regions with a dry climate. It’s just that if it’s damp in the internal cavity, and the tightness of the block is broken, then that’s enough.

Chassis

A relatively small resource of brake discs is a feature of all heavy machines, and the discs fail not because of wear, but because of the beats - the high temperature of the brake system affects. Otherwise, everything is done with high quality, for centuries. The tubes are more reliable than those, as is the ABS unit. The calipers also have a good margin of safety. In the suspension, the most troublesome element is the hubs, both front and rear. On a heavy car, they regularly fail, they are very afraid of small side impacts, and on cars of the early years of production, they often turned out to be not tight and began to buzz due to corrosion. Now there are non-original hubs on sale that are superior in quality to the original - experienced car owners most often use them.

Another characteristic feature of the suspension is the high load on the ball joint in the front suspension, but it changes separately and is inexpensive, you just need to make it a rule to change it without waiting for a serious backlash. A small resource of steering rods and tips is characteristic of cars leaving the asphalt, and they also develop a knock in the steering rack early. However, the knock usually does not progress, there is almost no backlash and the rail is not prone to leakage, and replacing the rods will not hit the budget. A small resource of power steering pumps is typical for Volvo cars of this period, it is recommended to keep the oil level normal and monitor the condition of the power steering radiator, it is located here in a very unfortunate place. In general, the suspension resource is more than worthy, except with in-line "sixes" and when installing low-profile rubber, the suspension will begin to "get" the owner. The hubs will fail not after 50-80 thousand kilometers, but after 30, the resource of the rear silent block in the front suspension will decrease to 40-50 thousand, and in the rear suspension most of the elements will not reach "hundreds".

Under normal operating conditions and with the right choice of components, the suspension lives for a long time, at least up to 150 thousand, at about this mileage, shock absorbers should also be changed. Previously, only the rear silent block of the A-shaped lever in front, ball bearings and stabilizer struts are rented out, you can count on replacing them with a run that is about half as much. If the rear suspension of the car has “advanced” Nivomat struts, then most likely it will be easier to replace them with a set of conventional springs and shock absorbers, since the cost of these struts is too high. In addition, practice shows that this does not affect handling at all.

Transmission

Manual transmissions are problem-free here, but they are extremely rare. But in general, the transmission on a heavy machine is overloaded, and this affects its resource. Difficulties arise even with the cardan shaft and drives: the shaft here is too “compressed” by the exhaust system, and its hinges fail much more often than on passenger cars. CV joints of wheel drives are damaged mainly when driving off-road. Still, this is a crossover, not a serious jeep - weak protection and low ground clearance make trips on ruts very expensive.

The Haldex clutch in the rear wheel drive was also rather weak, but it does not fail very often. If you change the oil on time, then its hydraulic system normally lives up to a run of 200 thousand kilometers or more. Here the clutch control unit often fails, I wrote about this above. Oddly enough, the automatic transmission angle gearbox fails, it worked perfectly with two generations of Volvo cars, but lost ground on a heavy crossover. It can cut off the splines in the drive, or it can rotate the bearings, which entails either replacing the housing or serious plumbing work to restore its geometry. I already wrote about gearboxes and newer ones. You should not demonize them, although the resource on a heavy SUV is clearly insufficient. With regular oil changes at least once every 60 thousand kilometers, they can go 200 thousand. If more often, and even in time to repair the weak ones, then even more. However, usually the owners do not bother with either oil changes, or additional cooling, or replacing the “donut”. The box is simply brought to overhaul with a run of 120-160 thousand, then it is more or less successfully repaired, and so it goes until the next global breakdown. Fortunately, they have been mastered in repair and there are enough spare parts. There are valve body solenoids on Aisin 55-51, and besides, they can be repaired. For severe cases, valve bodies are available for sale.

If your box is alive, then it is highly recommended to install a large remote automatic transmission radiator and control its operation. And an oil change every 30 thousand is partial or every 50 is a complete one. Or more often if you like to rock. The resource of gas turbine overlays here, I repeat, is very small.

About the "American" - the GM 4T65 transmission - I also wrote in, on a heavier car it flies more often and causes more trouble. And if Aisin boxes are still capable of relieving the owner of worries for several years, then GM does not allow this. A vane pump often fails literally out of the blue - a little ATP contamination and overheating are enough. The chains are stretched, the valve body is clogged. There is good news: reinforced chains, clutches, gas turbine engines and radiators for this box are on sale. You just need to search a little. Instead of another repair "as it was", make an easy tuning of the automatic transmission. But the vast majority of owners are not inclined to creativity and simply invest again, scolding both the engine and the automatic transmission.

Motors

Quite successful 2.5T and 2.9T were installed on the car from the very beginning. The 2.5 version with the MHI TD04 turbine is a bit more reliable than the version with the KKK turbine, and requires only regular replacement of the timing belt, adjustment of valve clearances in time and control of the crankcase ventilation system. Otherwise, this is a very good unit, which has every chance of going several hundred thousand kilometers before the first major repair. I repeat, the resource of individual ignition coils is small, but this is not a very serious problem. The resource of the throttle valve module on the cars of the first years of production was also small, but the Italian Magneti Marelli module was not installed here, so you can safely replace it with a later version. Otherwise, it is worth keeping an eye on numerous sensors. The intake system of the 2.9T engine is noticeably more complicated, and there are two turbines, which increases the cost of repairs and the likelihood of problems, and also increases the load on the cooling system. But by and large, this motor has a good resource, although it will shake out much more money from the owner than 2.5, and not only for gasoline.

The extraordinary and ergonomic crossover Volvo XC90 is famous for its outstanding safety and good power potential. But this car also has weaknesses that need to be paid close attention.

Weaknesses of the Volvo XC90:

● transmission;
● Haldex clutch control unit (DEM);
● central electronic control unit CEM;
● steering rack;
● rear wheel hubs;
● clutches for variable valve timing;
● generator bearings.

Signs of malfunctions and their check upon purchase without visiting the service station:

1. The transmission must be checked, especially if the car is with automatic transmission. A manual transmission is more reliable. Most of all complaints about the 4-band GM 4T65E. You can identify the problem by test driving at various speeds. You should pay attention to slippage, shocks in the transmission, the appearance of vibrations, loss of transmission, as well as jerks when switching. Any type of gearbox requires checking the junction with the bevel gear for leaks.

2. In terms of electronics, the machine is quite complex. The leading is the front-wheel drive, when one wheel slips, the rear-wheel drive is turned on. The Haldex clutch control unit (DEM) responsible for this often fails. Sometimes filters, channels of the oil system become clogged and the DEM pump fails. You can check their work in a service station or, having driven into the mud, ask an assistant to visually observe the connection of the rear axle.

Often it simply may not be in place, it is located under the car, it is not protected by anything, so it is often stolen. You can find out about the presence of this expensive block by raising the car to the flyover.

3. The central electronic control unit CEM also often causes complaints in work. If the included audio system stutters, the on-board computer or windshield wipers do not work correctly, then there is a problem with the block. Therefore, when buying, you should carefully check their work. After all, in the future, the car will refuse to go at all.

steering rack

4. Intensive use of the machine causes wear of the steering rack parts. In the Volvo XC90, this is most often the steering lock. A complete diagnosis is possible only with a service station, but a test drive will also help identify the problem. It is necessary to listen to the rattle and knock, as well as difficulties with steering control. Sometimes you just need to tighten or adjust it, but there can be serious problems.

Chassis

5. Noise, vibration with a set speed may be due to faulty rear hubs of the chassis of the car. You can check their condition by lifting the rear wheels in turn. You must first sway along the axis of the bridge, in case of problems, the wheel will dangle or there will be a slight play. Then twisting to listen for the presence of light knocks, rattles and jamming.

6. Engines with proper care are quite reliable, problems can arise with variable valve timing clutches. The included engine will help to find out about their malfunction. In this case, crackling sounds will be heard.

7. Alternator bearings, after about 70 thousand, they can make noise. This is, of course, primarily due to a flaw in the designers, since they are poorly protected from dirt.

In addition to the above listed weaknesses, there are several more, but it depends on the mileage and operating conditions of the car. Therefore, when self-checking the Volvo XC90, you need to drive a couple of kilometers and listen to how the engine and gearbox work. If you hear any knocks or squeaks, then you need to contact a car service. Moreover, if a car with a mileage of more than 100 thousand km, then you yourself should not rely on your own strength. Engine problems in these cars can occur at any time after such a run.

The main disadvantages of the Volvo XC90:

1. Noise isolation;
2. Poor view of the front of the machine;
4. Expensive to maintain;
5. Rigid suspension;
6. Wide A-pillars hinder visibility.

Conclusion.

This is a comfortable and powerful family crossover with proper care that does not cause any complaints. When buying, you should take into account that the XC90 loses its value by an average of 15% every year. This will help to bargain well, but selling it further can be a problem.

Weaknesses and disadvantages of the Volvo XC90 was last modified: October 25th, 2018 by Administrator

The mid-size crossover Volvo XC90 was first shown in 2002. In the same year, its mass production began. The all-terrain vehicle is based on the P2 platform, on which the Volvo S80 sedan is built. During the production of the XC90, it went through two restylings - in 2006 and in 2012.

Volvo XC90 (2002-2006)

The new Volvo XC90 rarely worries its owners about malfunctions. As a rule, the crossover is calm, rolls back 5-6 years without any complaints. Then problems slowly start to appear.

Choosing a used Volvo XC90 is not an easy task. It seems to be a good car, and there are not so many serious sores. But if you don’t notice defects during the inspection, then you will have to pay a tidy sum to put your “favorite” into operation. Many owners believe that during the operation of the runaway XC90, 80-100 thousand rubles in a pocket in reserve will not be superfluous.

Most of all, owners of cars manufactured in 2003-2005 face malfunctions. Slightly fewer problems with cars produced in 2006-2008. Volvo XC90 younger than 2008 hardly appear in the failure statistics. As a rule, the headache starts due to one of three main problems: automatic transmission, all-wheel drive connection system and ... electricians.

Engines

The Volvo XC90 was originally equipped with two turbocharged petrol engines: 2.5 l / 210 hp. (T5) and 2.9 l / 272 hp (T6); as well as a 2.4 l / 163 hp turbodiesel. (D5). In 2006, the turbodiesel increased its power to 185 hp, and the turbocharged 2.9 liter petrol was no longer installed. It was replaced by a naturally aspirated 3.2 liter with a capacity of 243 hp, and the flagship V8 4.4 liter - 315 hp has also become available. On the XC90 2012 model year, the power of the D5 turbodiesel was already 200 hp.

The most reliable is considered to be a 5-cylinder turbocharged 2.5T gasoline power unit with a return of 210 hp. Its design has been time-tested, and there are almost no mechanical failures. However, like the more powerful 2.9 liters and 3.2 liters.

Supercharged 2.5 and 2.9 liters have a timing belt drive, with a first replacement period of 120 thousand km or 5 years. Subsequent updates must be made every 90 thousand km. The 3.2 liter aspirated has a timing chain drive with an almost eternal chain.

Interruptions in the operation of supercharged engines, as a rule, are associated with a loss of tightness at the inlet - due to frayed corrugations of the air duct. Their cost is about 4-5 thousand rubles. The same applies equally to diesel units.

The turbocharger rarely fails. And if it still dies, then after replacing the “cartridge” (bearings with impellers) it is ready for work again. The need to repair the turbocharger arises mainly on the first cars in 2003. Camshaft or crankshaft oil seals, as a rule, begin to "snot" after 150 - 200 thousand km. Work on replacing penny rubber bands will cost 20,000 rubles.

With a run of more than 200 thousand km, most likely it will be necessary to replace the upper engine mount. If you constantly “anneal it like in a race”, then its resource will be reduced by at least half. Confirmation of this is the torn support pads after 60-80 thousand km after replacement.

With a run of more than 160-200 thousand km, engines begin to "eat up" oil from 300 gr. up to 1 liter per 1 thousand km. Oil scraper caps make a significant contribution to this. For their replacement in the official service, they will ask about 25 thousand rubles, in the usual they will cope for 4-5 thousand rubles. By 200-250 thousand km, most likely, it will be necessary to clean the crankcase ventilation system.

As a preventive measure and in the fight against floating revolutions, every 50-60 thousand km it is necessary to clean the throttle valve. In the event of its failure, about 20 thousand rubles will have to be paid for a new one.

On machines older than 6 years, the radiator may “leak”. The original will cost 18 thousand rubles, the analogue is half the price - about 8 thousand rubles.

Gasoline pumps for Volvo XC90 2003 - 2005 release often fail. Sometimes the problem lies not in the pumps themselves, but in the control unit, which is typical for machines manufactured in 2005. On crossovers produced in 2004, a burst cover-housing of the fuel pump often begins to leak. Troubleshooting will require about 5 thousand rubles.

Diesels are generally quite reliable, provided they are properly maintained and fueled with the right fuel. Nozzles go more than 150 - 200 thousand km. The price of a new one is about 5 thousand rubles.

On diesel XC90s younger than 2006, the throttle assembly often fails. The reason is the use of plastic materials in the design of the assembly. As a result, it often cuts off the internal gears of the assembly, or the plastic rod of the vortex chamber (flap) flies or breaks off. The traction itself is inexpensive - about 200 rubles, but dealers will ask about 10 thousand rubles for its replacement. A new assembly assembly costs about 18 thousand rubles.

On cars manufactured in 2003-2005, engine problems may be caused by a malfunction of the electronic control units. So the failure of the fan control unit led to overheating of the engine due to the failure of the fans. A new block costs about 20-25 thousand rubles and is sold only assembled with fans. At disassembly, you can find the module separately for 5-8 thousand rubles.

Transmission

In the secondary market, it is almost impossible to find an XC90 with a manual transmission. Such copies were sold only in Europe and were not very popular with us. "Mechanics" was installed on the crossover T5 and D5.

With 2.5 liter engines, a 5-speed automatic transmission Aisin Warner AW55 / 51 was installed. After 2005, the 6-speed TF-80SC of the same company Aisin began to be used. The same box was used on the diesel XC90 and with a 3.2 liter engine. Japanese Aisin copes well with its tasks and gets along better with a 2.5 liter engine.

The more powerful 2.9 liter was combined with a Volvo 4T65 automatic transmission, which has "G-Em" roots. This turbocharged engine simply "devoured" a weak box with its powerful torque.

The "automatic" on the crossover is prone to overheating and does not like off-road trips with long slips. Later, an additional radiator was used in the box's working oil cooling system. Often there is oil leakage from under the left drive oil seal. The reason is the wear of the differential bearing seat.

At the moment, the most frequent problems with the box on copies of 2003-2005 release. The main reasons for the failure of boxes: wear of friction clutches, overheating of the valve body, failure of hydraulic accumulators and shaft bearings. Fortunately, the boxes are repairable. Repair of the box cost 60-90 thousand rubles.

Volvo XC90 USA (2012)

The resource of the Haldex pump is small - the coupling for connecting the rear axle. There are frequent cases when it became necessary to replace it, as soon as the mileage exceeded the first hundred thousand kilometers. The cost of a new pump is about 15-20 thousand rubles. The DEM module controls the connection, the resource of which is not much more than the pump, due to the fact that it is located under the bottom. In addition, he often becomes the subject of hunting for "car thieves" who remove him by vandalism. A new control unit costs about 70-100 thousand rubles. You can get by with repairing a failed module for 18-20 thousand rubles.

External CV joints often require replacement with a mileage of more than 140-180 thousand km. The original CV joints are only assembled with a shaft and cost about 24-36 thousand rubles. An analogue can be purchased for 13-15 thousand rubles. Many people purchase a separate "grenade" for 4-5 thousand rubles and install it instead of a faulty one.

Chassis

Rear wheel bearings rarely go more than 80-120 thousand km. The cost of a wheel bearing assembly with a hub is about 10 thousand rubles. Front wheel bearings are more reliable and take care of 160-200 thousand km.

Volvo XC90 suspension elements wear out almost simultaneously. If you need to replace one part, then soon the rest will “fit”.

The most expensive upgrade is the Nivomat rear shock absorbers, which maintain a constant ride height depending on the load. As a rule, the Nivomat resource is more than 120-160 thousand km, subject to the integrity of the anther. A set of new shock absorbers will cost 35-40 thousand rubles. Front shock absorbers run more than 100-150 thousand km. A new shock absorber is available for 5 thousand rubles. The bushings of the front anti-roll bar are changed as an assembly with the stabilizer.

The steering rack shows itself on cars older than 2005. There are leaks or knocks. Rail repair will cost 9-13 thousand rubles, a restored rail costs about 20 thousand rubles.

Another common phenomenon is the destruction of the plastic bearing in the place of the telescopic connection of the steering column shaft. The cost of a new steering column is about 30 thousand rubles. A broken column can be repaired.

Electrician

Electricity dominates the Volvo XC90 crossover and the minds of their owners. More often, electrical problems appear on cars manufactured in 2003-2005. An unpleasant surprise - locked doors with keys in the ignition after leaving the driver's cabin, happens often. Problems with music appear due to a malfunction of the ISM module, which costs 45 thousand rubles. A faulty horn siren and a fixed sunroof are the fruits of a siren board flooded with internal battery electrolyte. Problems with the light, the correct operation of the engine and the lack of readings on the dashboard are the result of a malfunction of the CEM module (central module) - the main brain of the car. The cost of the new module is about 45 thousand rubles, its replacement will require another 15 thousand rubles. "Chinese" xenon often helps its failure.

ABS errors on cars older than 2004 are often caused by the BCM.

The Swedish crossover is crammed with all sorts of electronics and systems control units that are closely related to each other. Therefore, the loss of contact or electrical connection between the units leads to disruptions in the systems. Diagnostics on specialized equipment is an important point in the process of choosing a car. Ordinary diagnostic scanners cannot always correctly and correctly read information about the presence of errors, or even do not see them at all.

If it is not possible to contact a specialized Volvo service for help, then you can conduct a blitz test using the built-in self-test. To do this, press and hold the "READ" button on the end of the left stalk switch. At this point, press the rear fog lamp on/off button twice. The right instrument panel display will enter diagnostic mode. Further, when you press the "READ" button, all electronic blocks are scrolled. If the inscription “DTS set” is displayed next to the name of the block, then this block has a malfunction (error). The error number can only be read using diagnostic equipment. At the end of the list of electronic units, the display will return to its original state.