Are you dreaming of a big and comfortable Volvo? The first generation XC90 is no longer as simple as Goeteborga's old designs, but it is an attractive proposition.
The fashion for SUVs and crossovers has changed the big family car market and the policy of the Swedish company shows this perfectly.
VOLVO XC90 | BODY
The XC90, like the number in the name itself, implies that it is a large "caliber" car. This can be seen with the naked eye, standing next to the car. In numbers, this is expressed as follows: length 4.80 m, width 1.90 m, and wheelbase 2.86 m.Access to the salon is very good, there is no need to complain about the lack of space - the car can easily fit five or even seven people. In some versions, additional third-row seats are hidden under the boot floor. In the five-seater version, the trunk holds 613 liters, that is, a lot, and with the rear seats folded down - 1837 liters, plus you get a flat floor. The backward view is rather limited, so it is very good to have sensors on board. reverse or a camera.
As with all products leaving the Swedish factories, and this car is made in Torslanda, the build quality is at a very good level. And you can feel it even after years of use. Also the corrosion protection is excellent. This means that if the car has not been in an accident, then you will not have to worry about the condition of the body, even if you buy a used Volvo XC90 with mileage.
VOLVO XC90 | ENGINES
The initial version included three power unit to choose from. The main engine was Gas engine The turbocharged R5 2.5 T produced 210 hp. It was installed in tandem with a five-speed automatic machine from Aisin, which provided fairly good performance (0-100 km / h in 9.9 seconds) and contributed to a moderate consumption of 12-15 l / 100 km for such large cars. More powerful engines were installed in the T6 version of the R6 2.9 also with a turbocharging of 272 hp. Unfortunately, the performance improvement was small (0-100 km / h: 9.3 sec) due to GM's rather brooding four-speed automatic transmission.
Most desirable is the R5 2.4 diesel engine, which originally offered 163 hp. or 185 hp, and since 2010 also 200 hp. power. The choice was a six-speed manual transmission, or Geartronic - first a five-, then a six-speed automatic Aisin. Fuel consumption can be freely kept within 10 l / 100 km.
In 2005, Volvo introduced the Yamaha V8 4.4 engine. Offering 315 hp. which was installed with a six-speed automatic machine Aisin. This duo provided the best performance, although that also has its drawbacks. The sound of the V8 is rather disappointing, and fuel consumption can easily exceed 20 liters / 100 km, although, as a rule, it hovers around 16 liters.
In 2006, the R5 2.5 T block was replaced with a 3.2 engine with 243 hp.
VOLVO XC90 | DRIVE TRANSFER
All used Volvo XC90s sold in Europe were equipped with a Haldex-type drive for both axles. The rear axle was connected in case of loss of grip of the front wheels, but this happens quite late. V winter conditions on slippery road the drive on both axles increases safety, but you can forget about off-road driving.
The XC90 is equipped with trajectory stabilization systems, so there is no need to be so afraid of a tall body. Despite the rather comfortable and soft suspension the car behaves confidently and does not give in to side swing.
VOLVO XC90 | FAILURES AND TECHNICAL FAULTS
Used Volvo XC90 is not budget-friendly to maintain. Already replacing suspension elements or brake system will take a lot of money out of the wallet, and if it comes to failure it can be even more expensive.
Diesel engines are the most problematic, which can be influenced by high mileage. Cracks in the cylinder head, malfunctioning injectors, problems in the intake or exhaust gas (EGR) system occur. Of course, when buying, you need to pay attention to the condition of the turbocharger, especially in the T6, where there are two turbines.
Video review used Volvo XC90
Malfunctions happen automatic boxes no less problematic is GM's four-speed manual gearbox, modified by Volvo, but never made good. In addition, it was only used in the T6 version.
Haldex drive clutch can create problems. When it comes to malfunction, the most common culprit is the DEM control unit. Versions released since 2008 are less vulnerable to this type of breakdown. Wheel bearings have a rather short durability.
There are also electrical / electronic faults. This applies mainly to the very first specimens. Before purchasing, it is necessary to check the operability of all on-board systems.
According to the DEKRY report, the braking system creates the most problems in the Volvo XC90 during periodic maintenance inspections. The heavy body creates a constant load when braking, and the owner waits frequent replacement brake pads and brake discs. Steering tips also "die" relatively quickly. The third problem is lighting malfunctions - as a rule, however, this only applies to burned-out lamps, which fail quite often.
For people who are looking for a comfortable and problem-free car, we recommend the V8 version. Although the fuel consumption on this version is high, the resource reserve and reliability of the main components and assemblies are higher. For those who travel a lot - you need to look for well-preserved versions with diesel engine with a capacity of 185 hp. or 200 hp (the 163 hp version is too little for such a heavy vehicle). If you are afraid to get to the machine repair, then the only option for you is diesel. Because this is the only manual transmission option offered.
Volvo XC90 | What to look for when buying on the secondary market
The least recommended version is T6. GM box does not provide performance characteristics worthy of such strong engine and this is an extreme fallback. But most should be careful with specimens brought from the United States. First, they can only have front-wheel drive, secondly, they were probably badly damaged, and thirdly, electronics can cause problems. In addition, you should avoid "stunned" copies intended for overhaul because the cost of spare parts is high.
MODEL HISTORY
2001 - Debut of the prototype during the Detroit Auto Show
2002 - presentation of the model in the serial version
2005 - debut of the 4.4 V8 engine designed by Yamaha
2006 - replacement of engine 2.5 T with unit 3.2
2007 - the first restyling
2009 - second restyling
2011 - the third stylistic modification
2014 - end of production
2015 - introduction of the second generation XC90 on sale
VOLVO XC90 | VIN
1-3 - manufacturer's designation: YV1 - Volvo
4 - model designation: C - XC90
5 - drive type and number of seats: M (ADW, 5); C (AWD, 7); N, Y (hole FWD)
6-7 - engine code
8 - exhaust gas emission code
9 - gearbox code
10 - year code
11 - factory code
12-17 - body number
The history of the model
The Volvo xc90 car was first demonstrated in 2002 at the Detroit Auto Show. Prior to this, the range of cars produced by Volvo could boast of only one passenger car with four-wheel drive- Volvo V70, currently Volvo XC70.
By the way, Volvo is developing autonomous cars and plans to transfer all of its new cars to autonomous operation by 2020.
The Volvo XC90 was presented by the manufacturers as a seven-seater parquet 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 it gave out a powerful engine, high ground clearance and a modern electronic all-wheel drive system. The car is based on an identical platform to the Volvo S60, S70 and S80 - P2. 
The Volvo XC90 has won several awards: in 2003 it was recognized the best car of the year in North America, and in 2011 - the best luxury SUV of the year.
Main characteristics
Appearance
The appearance of the car is very solid: original body design, well-defined lines, high ground clearance. Exterior lineup 2012-2014 has changed quite noticeably: the Volvo XC90 received a new radiator grill and bumper, as well as an updated shape of the wheel arches and moldings. And across the entire body surface is a large number of chrome edging. A large flat hood and new optics of an original form also give a presentable appearance of the car.
Curb weight - no more than 2075 kg, ground clearance - 218 mm. Dimensions for all modifications are identical: 4807x1936x1784 mm.
Salon
The salon is spacious, originally designed for 5 seats. For an additional fee, you can add another row to get a seven-seater crossover. Even in basic configuration the salon looks very elegant. A look at the dash reveals a number of designs: leather, aluminum, chrome steel or mahogany inserts.The interior trim is made of Flame Birch wood, which grows near the Arctic Circle and has unusual wave-shaped patterns. Parts of the wood are hand-selected for each vehicle to match the pattern and tone with the rest of the interior. Also, the interior uses real aluminum, pre-polished in opposite directions, which makes it shine in the rays of the sun.
Between the driver and the passenger there is a large panel where the air conditioner, telephone, radio tape recorder are located. Instrument control buttons are located on the steering wheel. Rear passengers can switch the music using the audio control unit.
A special coating on the touchscreen allows it to respond to gloved hands.
Specifications
For Russian market Volvo used to offer a wide range of engines. But since 2013, the Volvo XC90 is equipped with only 2 types: gasoline and diesel. Each engine type 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 intercooling system and a variable intake and exhaust valve timing system. The torque is 320 Nm, 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 - about 15, 7 liters., on the highway - 9 liters., for mixed mode - 11, 4 liters. 
The D5 turbodiesel is economical, produced mainly from 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 is provided by 420 Nm torque. This allows the Geartronic six-speed automatic to make the most of its power. The D5 engine is equipped with the " Common rail»For fuel injection and also a turbine with the ability to change the geometry. Fuel consumption in the city - 10, 6 liters., 6, 7 liters. - on the highway and 8, 1 l. when driving mixed. You can accelerate to 100 km / h in 10, 3 seconds. 205 km / h is the maximum speed. 
Complete set
There are 3 configuration options for the Russian market:Standart. 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. A sports version with a stiff suspension and an original body kit. Price - from 2 million 70 thousand rubles. Executive. The maximum equipment of a car with an elegant leather interior. Price - from 2 million 200 thousand rubles. 
Vehicle operating experience
Owner benefits
Volvo XC90 collects reviews, mostly positive. Among the advantages of the car, the owners note:- stylish and ergonomic interior;
- large trunk;
- no roll when cornering;
- soft running of the car;
- comfortable driver's seat with a lot of adjustments.
After the first restyling, they changed a little optics with bumpers.the suspension is extremely comfortable and reliable.Rear hubs are one of the few weak places undercarriage. Available as standard6 airbags and a set of electronicassistants (ABS, DSTC and EBD).Galvanized body with good paintwork is goodho carries our winters. Appearance canonly spoil the dimmed headlights and peel off chrome. Turbo diesel 2.4 (D5244T) and "chain" atmospheresphernik (B6324S) - the most successful in the line ke units
Forever young, forever ... Safe! In addition to its ageless appearance, this crossover, as befits any Volvo, is distinguished by outstanding safety. And these are not empty words. It's no secret that almost everyone modern car passes successfully crash tests Euro NCAP. But when the American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) instituted a new, more stringent series of tests in 2012, the entire global auto industry got excited, with new models of big-name brands hitting a frontal impact with 25 percent overlap one after another. A pleasant surprise was the result of the XC90: a crossover with ten years of "experience" successfully passed the tests, earning the maximum rating Top Safety Pick +. But the XC90 is not glorious for safety alone. Many people liked it due to its comfort: powerful engines, a spacious interior with an optional third row of seats, high-quality finishing and very rich equipment. Thanks to allFor these qualities, the XC90 has become almost the most popular Volvo car not only in Russia, but also in the United States, which the model was primarily focused on. Truth,models intended for the American market were an order of magnitude poorer in terms of equipment, while the most affordable versions were equipped with a drive only to the front axle (when buying it would be nice to check for the presence of a propeller shaft under the bottom). With overseas cars, of which there are a great many in our market, you should be careful for a number of other reasons: as a rule, the engines and gearboxes of such copies are in the worst condition. But this applies, perhaps, to all cars brought from overseas. What about the age-old myth about the troublesome and expensive maintenance of the Swedish brand cars?
After 10 years of manufacturing the XC90 with successpassed the frontal crash testspeed 64 km / h with 25% overlapeat, introduced in 2012
SUSPENSION AND UNDERGROUND
The XC90 is built on the common Volvo T2 platform, on which the S60, S80 and V70 models were previously created. Consequently, there is no need to expect any serious off-road capabilities - this is a classic "SUV" with a monocoque body, independent suspension of all wheels and all-wheel drive without hard locks. But as for comfort, here Volvo is a real cruise liner - the suspension perfectly isolates passengers from all the imperfections of Russian roads. Fortunately, you don't have to pay for this with frequent and expensive repairs: both the front and rear suspension are quite hardy and not so expensive to maintain. So, the front silent blocks and ball joints, which change separately from the lever, usually wear out no earlier than 100 thousand km. Steering tips and stabilizer struts run a little less (60-70 thousand km), but the shock absorbers will last much longer (130-150 thousand km). Rear suspension almost twice as hardy as the front, with the exception of the rear hub bearings - they can buzz already by 40-50 thousand.
The XC90 chassis is based on the S80 platform:the suspension is extremely comfortable and reliable
ENGINES
More than half of those offered on secondary market cars are equipped with 5-cylinder petrol turbo engines B5254T2 (210 HP). The engine is powerful enough for a heavy crossover and, with proper care, is quite reliable. But problems cannot be ruled out: in winter, due to a clogged oil separator, the crankcase ventilation system sometimes squeezes out the oil seals, and in summer the thermostat may fail, which will lead to overheating of the motor. The turbocharged inline sixes B6294T (272 hp) are very similar in reliability. But in 2007, these engines replaced other 6-cylinder, but already atmospheric B6324S units (238 hp), which became noticeably more economical. In the first year, an incomplete oil separator led to increased consumption oil, but with the redesigned valve cover, the problems disappeared. There is a model range and a good one diesel unit D5244T (163-185 HP). The motor is quite unpretentious and reliable and is in deserved demand. The main thing is not to forget to service it in a timely manner and periodically clean the crankcase ventilation and waste recycling system. gases (EGR) every 60-90 thousand. The most powerful V8 (B8444S, 315 hp) did not receive much distribution in Russia due to the high transport tax.
After the first restyling, they changed a littleoptics with bumpers
TRANSMISSION
Depending on the engine installed, the XC90 was equipped with three different automatic transmissions, which are not the strong point of this Volvo. The most problematic, but relatively cheap to repair, is the 4-band GM 4Т65Е, which does not always cope with a powerful 6-cylinder turbo engine. Slightly more reliable is the 5-speed AW55, installed on diesel and gasoline in-line "fives", but more expensive to repair: with careful operation and regular oil change, this automatic transmission should last more than 200 thousand km. But it is better to choose a car with relatively fresh TF80SC, which was equipped with V8 engines, in-line "aspirated" 3.2 and post-styled turbodiesels. There are XC90 on sale with a completely problem-free 6-speed "mechanics" M-66, but such cars are in the minority.
Often fails Hal dex coupling oil pumpand DEM control unit
When buying, it will not be superfluous to check the performance of the all-wheel drive: for this, it is enough to lift the car with the engine running on the lift and turn on the gear. If cardan shaft does not spin - the matter is in the worn out bushing of the bevel gear. If the cardan rotates, and the rear axle is stationary, the point is in the rear differential control module (DEM), which, by the way, may not be in place at all (an expensive block is often stolen right from under the car).
BODY, ELECTRIC AND INTERIOR
There are no complaints about iron - fully galvanized body panels are not subject to corrosion, and paintwork high quality and durable. Spoil appearance after a few years of operation, only peeling chrome and cloudedplastic headlights. The latter, by the way, sometimes break down the electric correctors, which can be replaced separately. Trouble can arise with the salon electrician, especially for the earliest specimens, which often had "glitchy" on-board displays.computer and radio. High humidity can damage the longitudinal and lateral acceleration sensor (BCS) located under the front passenger seat... Also, because of the water accumulated in the niche of the engine compartment, the electronic control unit (CEM) "dies", which after 2005 became more sealed.
The XC90 was often equipped with a 7-seater saloon,which easily allows you to transport long lengths
The color and materials of the finish are stronglydiffer depending on the configuration.Equipment of cars brought from the USA,usually poorer than European counterparts
pros
Comfortable reliable suspension, powerful engines, 7-seater saloon, rich equipment, low price for its class, good maintainability
Minuses
Not the most reliable automatic transmissions and gasoline turbo engines, electrical problems in early copies, mediocre cross-country ability
OVERVIEW OF THE SECONDARY MARKET AND NEW ANALOGUES
APPROXIMATE COST OF MAINTENANCE, p.
| ORIGINAL S / H | NON-ORIGINAL S / H | WORK | |
| Spark plugs (4 pcs.) | 3000 | 1200 | 800 |
| Multi-plate clutch control unit (DEM) | 75 000 | — | 600 |
| Cleaning the crankcase ventilation system | — | — | 2000 |
| Flushing the injector | — | — | 2200 |
| Brake discs / pads | 4200/4300 | 1500/900 | 2100/1500 |
| Hub assembly with bearing | 6000 | 3000 | 1300 |
| Spherical bearing | 3900 | 800 | 950 |
| Front stabilizer | 2400 | 500 | 600 |
| Shock absorbers (2 pcs., Front) | 18 400 | 8000 | 3500 |
| Hood | 48 000 | 20 000 | 1400 |
| Bumper | 31 000 | 5200 | 1600 |
| Wing | 22 500 | 13 000 | 1000 |
| Headlight | 44 000 | 35 000 | 600 |
| Windshield | 18 500 | 4800 | 2000 |
VERDICT
Volvo XC90 has established itself as a comfortable family crossover without any major flaws. This mid-size SUV is an order of magnitude cheaper than its main competitors (Land Rover discovery, Volkswagen Touareg and BMW X5), no more expensive to maintain, and in terms of maintainability and reliability is inferior only to SUVs Toyota Land Cruiser. When choosing a used crossover, it is better to give preference to a Volvo with a turbodiesel or an atmospheric 3.2-liter engine, to refuse to buy the XC90 of the first years of production and cars from the American market.
Big and high quality crossover for only $ 8000? Yes exactly. Prices for the Volvo XC90 of the first years of production today start from this amount. That is, for the money for which you can buy an "empty" new "state employee" Russian assembly, we get an old but expensive SUV with good equipment, spacious salon and four-wheel drive. But is it worth the candle?
Engine
The Volvo XC90, produced since 2002, was originally equipped with turbocharged gasoline engines R5 2.5 and R6 2.9. In 2005, an atmospheric V8 4.4 was added to them, and in 2007 the model was also equipped with an atmospheric L6 3.2. Of the features - for the safety of the driver and passengers, all engines under the hood are located transversely and in the event of an accident they go down. Diesel in the range of one - R5 2.4. Let's start with him.
The diesel engine is reliable and unpretentious. Since 2005, diesel engines have received an additional device for directing gases for afterburning - the so-called vortex damper. The blades coke and break, the damper itself tends to leak, the thrust disappears. Until 2010, there were only these diesel motors, then other versions appeared without them. The cost of troubleshooting is $ 260 and two hours of work. With particulate filters, if you drive normally, everything is fine too, you don't need to cut them out.
The engine stands on one conventional cushion and two vacuum cushions. The last time in 5-7 years they fail. The back one costs $ 30, the front one costs 15-20.
Gasoline engines handle 200-300 thousand km without any problems. And then on high mileage you just need to raise the cylinder head and change the gasket. Petrol engine on "disassembly" costs about $ 700 in the collection. In which case it is easier to change the engine. But there are nuances ...
4.4 V8 problems - oil leaks. The motor is very hardy, it will ride to the last. But if you do not do everything according to your mind, then you can get money. One gasket can leak for 100,000 rubles. Or maybe you have to go deep into the engine. You start to disassemble - something else is revealed. The motor is complex: four ignition timing couplings, a balance shaft ... Repairs can cost $ 2,000. There are practically no substitute parts when ordering spare parts for this motor, basically only the "original". Good examples with this engine rarely come across on sale: V8s were taken by those who like fast driving. But there is no "wow" effect from it: this motor is "strangled" to withstand the 6-speed "automatic" Aisin. The engine just allows you to drive confidently enough, but not fly. Consumption? Some owners claim an average consumption of 14-14.5 liters per "hundred".
The least reliable option is the 2.9-liter twin-turbo inline-six. A very controversial motor. The oil pump is still the same as that of the 2.5-liter engine, and there are already two turbines plus an extra cylinder. The pump capacity is not enough. The turbines are cooled with oil and antifreeze. Cooling is also ineffective. The oil pipes to the turbine often coke. Mediocre cooling and oil starvation are two reasons why these engines fail quickly. In addition, six cylinders are placed across, the "five-step" simply could not be crammed there, they installed a 4-speed American "automatic" GM. There are questions for this box too. There are few gears. Let's say the engine spins up to 3000 rpm, then it drops to 1500 - there is a blow to the box. And the shafts in it are not on the bearings, but on the bushings - physical wear of the body occurs. Once this "machine" can be repaired, the second - I'm not sure. The differential is at different levels with the "razdatka", therefore a chain transmission is used for their connection. This is another knot that can break. And, by the way, it often breaks down ... Therefore, everyone strongly does not recommend taking a 2.9-liter Volvo version XC90.
The 2.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine has no such problems. It is a repairable and reliable unit. Available with a 5-range "automatic" or 6-speed "mechanics".
The "3.2-liter" aspirated engine is interesting in technical terms. Yes, it is reliable, but the maintainability is terrible. The engineers had to solve a difficult problem: in the engine compartment, transversely place a 6-cylinder in-line engine together with a 6-speed "automatic". for this they used a complex system of the gas distribution mechanism, and also wisely with the location of the attachments.
In general, if it becomes necessary to repair this motor, the procedure will cost a pretty penny. But it doesn't really need to be repaired - a reliable engine.
Transmission
Versions with a 4-speed "automatic", as we have already found out, should be avoided. Further, in terms of reliability, the 5-speed "automatic" proved to be the best. After it comes the 6-speed. Formally, these boxes are maintenance-free. Their declared resource is 200-250 thousand kilometers. But it is recommended to change the oil every 20,000 kilometers. It happens that at around 30,000 km, the oil begins to darken, and darken quickly. Therefore, it is optimal to change the oil in the "automatic machine" every 20,000. Mechanical box gear is reliable. But there is a nuance in it - a dual-mass flywheel ...
The Volvo XC90 all-wheel drive system uses an oil-filled Haldex multi-plate clutch. The electronic unit reads information about the speed of rotation of the wheels of the car, engine speed, load on it, the state of the brake system and in a split second can transfer torque to the rear wheels to eliminate slippage.
The main problem here is not technology, but people. The owners simply forget to change the oil. The principle is as follows: the pump creates pressure and thereby compresses the clutches, the clutches are produced. Therefore, it is imperative to change the oil and filter. Often the owners forget about this filter, dirt gets into the pump, it breaks down. A new pump costs 400 euros, a replacement around 250 euros. "Used" pumps can be found for 100-150 euros, but it is better not to install them. In order not to come to a replacement, it is better to change the oil every 30-40 thousand kilometers. The oil itself costs 35 dollars, the filter is 35, the replacement is 50.
It is very harmful to slip if the front and rear axles are on different types of road surface. There is a sharp connection of the rear axle - at this moment, the all-wheel drive bushing may break. Its cost is $ 200, the replacement work is $ 50. That is, you can fly in at $ 250 by simply misusing the all-wheel drive system. With proper operation with all-wheel drive in the XC90, no problems arise.
Chassis
Back multi-link suspension in this model, one might say, unkillable. There are practically no complaints. It happens that two parts need to be replaced - the front silent blocks of the trailing arm on each side. And it's not a fact that you will have to change them. You also need to change the stabilizer struts. Non-original stands cost about $ 40 each. They are shorter than the front ones, but for some reason they cost twice as much.
The front suspension is classic McPherson. It is weaker than the rear one, but structurally simpler, so it won't get much money from the owner. Weak points - thrust bearings and front shock absorber pads. The rear suspension is very strong, the front is average in terms of reliability. Hub bearings are only replaced with the hubs, but the need to replace them occurs approximately every ten years. The power steering is used in the steering. Reiki can tap after 200,000 kilometers, but they are maintainable, 220 dollars is the price of the issue. Overall, the undercarriage is reliable.
Body
The body is fully galvanized. The XC90 is the classic unkillable Volvo. If the car was slightly battered, but after it was well restored, there will be no problems with rust. But if the car was in a major accident, then there may be problems with body repair: the load-bearing elements are so strong that it is almost impossible to "pull" them. Although it is necessary to get into a really serious accident. Usually, if someone drives into a Volvo, then his car is in the trash, and the "Swede" only has a bumper and headlight to change. A tank, not a car.
We also note a very thick coat of factory anti-corrosion protection. It even seemed as if the body of this specimen had been further processed, but no. This car will really take a long time to drive.
Salon and electrics
There is one problem in the cabin. The fact is that the Volvo XC90 has a supporting structure, so a slight creakiness is characteristic of the interior off-road. That's all. Electrics are predominantly Bosch. Thick bundles, wires do not break. It is very rare that you need to do something electric. Electricians almost never search for some kind of phantom faults. The body and the electrics are the strongest points of the model. And in general, the car is reliable.
Site verdict
Of course, it would be more reasonable to buy a new Russian "state employee". And the consumption in it will be less, and the operation is cheaper, and new car there is still a new car. But if you want something more, then the Volvo XC90 is quite an option. For $ 8000, of course, it is unlikely that you will be able to get a good copy, but for $ 10,000-12,000 and above, there are quite a few options ...
Volvo XC90 is a relatively young car, so for more complete picture according to frequent complaints from owners, we studied the experience of not only Russian, but also foreign customers of the brand. And it helped! Most frequent problems ours and overseas XC90s turned out to be common. Well, the official representation of the brand and the specialists of the official dealer of the Independence Group told what problems really were and how they were eliminated.
Squeaky brake pads
"It creaks like an old bed from IKEA," the owners of the brand new Volvo XC90s swear - both in Russia and overseas. "I just took the car from the dealer - on the very first kilometers, the front brakes creaked. The dealer fixed something there for an hour, after which he said that the problem was solved. For the next six thousand kilometers, everything was really normal, but then the creak returned," says dsspb user on the international owner support forum support.volvocars.com.
Users who have faced a similar problem share their experience of quick warranty replacement of brake discs - supposedly the problem lies in them. Is it really necessary to immediately attend to replacing the brakes on a brand new and expensive crossover?
"Several cases of this phenomenon were noted. According to our data, this is due to the material of the disc. Changes in production have already been made - in particular, the material has been replaced. At the moment, this deficiency has been completely eliminated. The problem is no longer relevant," said the Russian representative of Volvo ... Alla Martynova, Technical Director of the Jaguar Business Unit Land rover and Volvo at Nezavisimost Group, confirmed that the manufacturer has already issued a technical prescription, noting that this nuisance in any case does not affect safety - the brakes work as they should.
Malfunctions of climate control
Often, owners of new XC90s in different countries pay attention to the strange work of climate control: the system does not react in any way to attempts to add temperature, then it "loses" the already set temperature, forcing everyone inside it to sweat or freeze from the cold. However, with such "sophisticated" electronics, it is not surprising to sneak in some kind of error. But is it just a system error? Here the opinions of the owners and the manufacturer differ.
For example, a user under the nickname volvocarsclub left a rather detailed commentary on this on his page in the social network drive2.ru:
"Constructive miscalculation of the manufacturer. The problem with the drainage system of the car. As a result of heavy rainfall or ford driving, water may accumulate in the cavity in the area of the driver's left leg, where the CAN-bus connector lies! Right where water collects. Then I immediately understood and about the jumps, and the inclusion of the system ... and about the chain failure of systems. Everything became clear, except for one! The manufacturer is already sending out repair kits to the dealerships with might and main, and they, in turn, by OD, wiring repair kits. Without going into details, it all comes down to getting rid of the connector in this place and completely sealing this section of the wiring, "the user writes.
However, neither the official representative nor the dealers have confirmed information about the floating connectors. "We do not have any information that the connector is not protected from moisture. Since the new Volvo XC90 entered the market, there have been several reports of incorrect operation of the climate control. Some of them were associated with a software malfunction, which was easily eliminated without replacement. The other part was connected with the incorrect use of the system by the owner himself, "the representative office said.
The official dealer adheres to the same opinion. "Yes, this is a rare symptom, but it occurs, it is solved by downloading the software, the security of the CAN-bus connector has nothing to do with it," says Alla Martynova from Nezavisimost.
In any case, the officials eliminate the problems with climate control under warranty, so that the owners can be calm: they will fix the actual problems, for the future they will take note and find out the reason.
Malfunctions of on-board electronics
Climate control is not the only system that can malfunction and upset owners with incorrect operation. In general, perhaps, the most questions arise about the on-board systems of the XC90. Someone's navigation system "loses" the car and lags behind the movement - here, however, Volvo immediately noted that they did not encounter such complaints, and the "loss" of the car may be due to a slow Internet connection, that is, the reason is not in the car , but as a cellular network of a mobile operator.
But as for the problems, for example, with the compatibility of the Volvo XC90 multimedia and mobile devices, then the owners of cars of the first releases were indeed invited to update the software of the car. True, the company emphasizes that this was not a review. "We carried out a marketing campaign to add functionality to the cars of the first releases. This service was absolutely free and was not a car recall," the dealership says.
Nezavisimosti also urges not to write down periodic "glitches" of the system in the category of mass childhood diseases. "I would not call it a gripe, any completely new structurally car requires a number of software downloads," says Alla Martynova.
Rapid wear of leather trim
"Stylish Scandinavian design and luxurious finishes, hand-crafted by our finest craftsmen," reads Volvo's website for the new XC90's interior. It's really hard to find fault with the quality of materials and the level of performance: chic soft leather, straight lines, and also this charming flag of Sweden, which, as it were, hints: there is increased attention to the smallest details.
However, owners often notice that after a year of ownership, delicate skin begins to rub off, small cracks and creases appear on it. Someone explains this by the peculiarities of the build - they say, large, broad-shouldered drivers and the seat cushion wring a lot, and lateral support makes you suffer. But Volvo says: the leather is very good, but the attitude must be appropriate.
"V Volvo cars only genuine leather with environmentally friendly processing technologies is used. Like any natural material, it is subject to natural wear and tear, which can be accelerated in case of contact with rough materials and lack of proper care with the chemicals recommended by the manufacturer. In this case, it is correct to make a comparison with expensive leather shoes - if you wear them both in the mud and in the cold, and at the same time do not take care of them, then the shoes will very quickly lose their proper appearance. "Alla Martynova admits that natural pollution in the cabin of the new XC90 is really more noticeable However, the leather itself cannot be compared and the dirt can be easily removed with the help of Volvo's special products.
Of course, the owners of competing classmates can gloat and be in complete confidence that they have definitely made the right choice and bought the most reliable and problem-free car. But there are no ideal cars - and the fact that your favorite model has not yet appeared in this section means only one thing: we just haven't gotten to it yet.
