Owners have filed 304 complaints
about the 2005 Volvo XC90 with NHTSA between 2005 and 2025.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 5 of 20 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Volvo XC90. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 14
2.6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 17
10% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Automatic Transmission
3856.7%
Engine
1217.9%
Cooling System
57.5%
Transfer Case (4-WHEEL Drive)
34.5%
TIE ROD Assembly
34.5%
Tread/Belt
23.0%
Body
23.0%
Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
23.0%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
41.5%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
41.5%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
145.3%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
166.1%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
6825.8%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
5320.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
7829.5%
150,000+ miles
2710.2%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Side barrier crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2005 Volvo XC90 4-DR. w/SAB
—
—
—
17.9% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Sep 2005peak 10Mar 2025
NHTSA investigations into the 2005 Volvo XC90
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
PE10025Opened 20 Jul 2010Closed 22 Nov 2010ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Central Electronic Module Failure
Volvo acknowledged a problem affecting some subject vehicles involving water seepage into the plenum box area in the engine compartment.When this occurs water may enter into the interior / passenger compartment and track along the wiring harness for the Central Electronic Module (CEM), the device that controls many of the vehicle's electrical functions including wiper operation, lighting, and transmission operation.If the water reaches the CEM connector electrical faults may result.In response to such faults the CEM, a microprocessor controlled device, will attempt to reset by temporarily shut...
EA06006Opened 21 Mar 2006Closed 14 Jun 2007ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
VOLVO XC90 BATTERY CABLE FAILURES
DURING PE05-057 AND EA06-006 ODI IDENTIFIED TWO CONDITIONS INVOLVING THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE IN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2005 VOLVO XC90 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES THAT COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE:(1) POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE GROUNDING TO THE STARTER SOLENOID HOUSING; AND (2) MISPLACED JACK CRANK HANDLES UNDER THE BATTERY BRACKET AFTER BATTERY SERVICE/MAINTENANCE.DURING PE05-057 VOLVO INITIATED A SAFETY RECALL TO CORRECT THE FIRST CONDITION IN APPROXIMATELY 10,529 MY 2005 XC90 AND S80 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SIX-CYLINDER ENGINES (NHTSA RECALL NO. 05V-529).IN A MAY 18, 2007 LETTER, VOLVO NOTIFIED NHTSA T...
PE05064Opened 2 Dec 2005Closed 10 May 2006VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
WINDSHIELD WIPER ARM PERFORMANCE
THE MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED NHTSA BY LETTER DATED APRIL 21, 2006, THAT A SAFETY RECALL HAS BEEN INITIATED FOR CORRECTION OF THIS PROBLEM ON CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003 - 2006 VOLVO XC90 VEHICLES. THE RECALL AFFECTS APPROXIMATELY 122,400 SUBJECT VEHICLES PRODUCED BETWEEN AUGUST 2002 AND OCTOBER 2005.NHTSA HAS ASSIGNED NO. 06V-144 TO THIS RECALL ACTION.THE CORRECTIVE ACTION WILL CONSIST OF REPLACING THE EXISTING WINDSHIELD WIPER ARMS WITH A NEW REINFORCED DESIGN.BASED ON THIS ACTION, THE SUBJECT PE HAS BEEN CLOSED.
PE05057Opened 2 Nov 2005Closed 23 Mar 2006ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
VOLVO XC90 BATTERY CABLE FAILURES
THE OFFICE OF DEFECT INVESTIGATIONS OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION, PE05-057 BASED ON EARLY WARNING DATA SUBMITTED TO ODI BY VOLVO. THE DATA CONTAINED FIELD REPORTS OF THERMAL FAILURES OF THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE. ON NOVEMBER 17, 2005, VOLVO NOTIFIED ODI THAT IT HAD IDENTIFIED A SAFETY DEFECT IN THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLES IN APPROXIMATELY 9,000 MY 2005 VOLVO XC90 VEHICLES WITH SIX CYLINDER ENGINES THAT COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.VOLVO RECALLED THE AFFECTED VEHICLES TO ADDRESS THE POTENTIAL GROUNDING CONDITION (NHTSA RECALL #05V-529).THERE WERE 13 COMPLAINTS, INCLUDING 4 FIRES, AND 10 WARRANTY...
Recalls on the 2005 Volvo XC90
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH GARMIN 760 PORTABLE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) UNITS BECAUSE THE BATTERIES ON THOSE UNITS MAY OVERHEAT.
Risk: AN OVERHEATED BATTERY COULD LEAD TO A FIRE.
09V483000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2005 S80, MODEL YEAR 2001-2004 V70, S60, XC70 AND MODEL YEAR 2003-2005 XC90 VEHICLES SOLD IN OR REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF ALABAMA, ARIZONA, ARKANSAS, CALIFORNIA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, HAWAII, KENTUCKY, LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI, NEVADA, NEW MEXICO, NORTH CAROLINA, OKLAHOMA, SOUTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, UTAH, VIRGINIA AND THE U.S. TERRITORIES. WHEN EXPOSED TO CERTAIN ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS (HOT CLIMATE AND TEMPERATURE CYCLING) OVER TIME AND IN COMBINATION WITH VARYING FUEL QUALITY, THE FUEL PUMP CAN DEVELOP CRACKS IN THE FUEL PUMP FLANGE.
Risk: IF THE CONDITION OCCURS VEHICLE OWNERS MAY NOTICE FUEL SMELL AND/OR FUEL LEAK WHICH, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
07V221000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, IT HAS BEEN DETERMINED THAT WHILE DOING BATTERY MAINTENANCE THE JACK'S CRANK HANDLE CAN BE MISPLACED UNDER A BRACKET WHICH RETAINS THE BATTERY.
Risk: MISPLACEMENT OF THE JACK'S CRANK HANDLE CAN POSE A SAFETY RISK AS IT CAN RESULT IN A SHORT CIRCUIT OF THE BATTERY WHICH COULD THEN LEAD TO A FIRE.
06V155000
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES,THE OUTER TIE ROD BALL JOINT CAN DEFORM AT HIGH LOADS CAUSING A LOSS OF THE CLAMPING FORCE AND THE NUT MAY LOOSEN, WHICH MAY EVENTUALLY LEAD TO A FATIGUE FRACTURE OF THE OUTER TIE ROD BALL JOINT.
Risk: THE DRIVER MAY NOTICE THAT THE VEHICLE IS DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
06V144000
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, IF THE WIPER ARM IS ACTIVATED IN EXTREME WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS AND WITHOUT LIFTING THE WIPER ARMS AND CLEANING THE WINDSHIELD PRIOR TO MOVING, THE WIPER ARM MIGHT SLIP ON ITS DRIVESHAFT, RESULTING IN AN INABILITY TO MOVE THE WIPERS FROM THE PARK POSITION.
Risk: INOPERATIVE WIPERS UNDER INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS COULD CAUSE A CRASH DUE TO IMPAIRED VISIBILITY.
05V529000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY:SOLENOID
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, DUE TO AN ERROR IN THE FACTORY ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTION, THE B+TERMINAL MAY BE IN CONFLICT WITH THE STARTER MOTOR SOLENOID. IF THIS OCCURS, THE CONFLICT BETWEEN THE B+TERMINAL AND THE STARTER MOTOR SOLENOID MAY DEVELOP INTO A SHORT CIRCUIT OF THE BATTERY CABLE TO GROUND.
Risk: SMOKE MAY APPEAR FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND IT MAY BE IMPOSSIBLE TO START THE CAR. IF THE SHORT CIRCUIT HAPPENS DURING DRIVING, ELECTRICAL POWER COULD BE LOST RESULTING IN THE WARNING LAMPS BEING DEACTIVATED. AN ELECTRICAL SHORT COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 201039687 units in Canada
Accessories
On certain vehicles, there is a possibility of overheating issues of batteries in the Garmin nüvi® 760 when certain batteries manufactured within a limited date code range are used in certain Garmin nüvi® 760 models with a specific printed circuit board (PCB) design. The interaction of these factors can, in some circumstances, increase the possibility of overheating, which may lead to a fire. Correction: Dealers will direct customers who have an affected unit to the Garmin Web site, which explains how to verify if their units are involved and includes procedures to follow for product exchange.
Recall 20061088,022 units in Canada
Steering
On certain vehicles, deformation at high loads may cause loss of clamping force of the outer tie rod and allow the nut to loosen. This may eventually lead to a fatigue fracture of the outer tie rod assembly. Tie rod separation could lead to a loss of steering control which could result in a vehicle crash. Correction: Dealers will replace outer tie rods with updated versions.
Recall 20060937,908 units in Canada
Visual System
On certain vehicles the windshield wiper pivot splines may be damaged due to failure to remove snow from the windshield. This would result in a loss of wiper operation and resultant detriment to vision. Correction: Dealers will replace wiper arms and retaining nuts.
Recall 200606614,000 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
Certain Volvo 850, S40, V40, V50, V70, XC70 and XC90 equipped with integrated child booster cushions were incorrectly labelled during vehicle assembly. The label indicates that the booster cushion can be used for children weighing between 15 and 36 kg (33 and 80 lb). CMVSS 213 states that the minimum weight for use must be 18 kg (40 lb). Should an underweight child be placed in the booster cushion and the vehicle is involved in a crash, the child may have a greater risk of injury. Correction: Volvo Canada will send a letter to owners explaining this problem and will supply updated weight limit decal to be applied to each side window.
Recall 2005365465 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, the positive battery cable may wear against the starter solenoid. The resulting chafe damage could develop into an electrical short. This can be noticed in different ways. If the vehicle is parked, smoke may appear from under the hood and/or it may be impossible to start the car. If the short circuit happens during driving, not only will the engine stall, but the electrical power could also be lost, resulting in warning lamps being deactivated. Correction: Dealers will relocate the battery cable.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Greenville, SCFire
ENGINE
WHEN CRANKING IT STALLS AND CUTS OFF AND AFTER DOING IT AROUND 10 TIMES IT FINALLY CRANKS THEN I HAVE TO HURRY TO PUT IN DRIVE TO GET THE MOTOR GOING IN ORDER TO KEEP HER CRUNK AND COUPLE WEEKS AGO BECAUSE THIS PROBLEM SHE STALLED OUT AND I HIT A HOLE IN THE ROAD AND BUSTED THE OIL PAN SO SHE HAS BEEN PARKED EVERY SINCE CAUSE I HAD MY DAUGHTER IN THE CAR AND THAT WASN'T A PRETTY SIGHT SINCE THE HIT MADE HER NERVOUS NOW CAN'T GET HER TO GET IN THE CAR SO I NEED MY CAR FIXED AND I SEE IT HAS SEVERAL RECALLS AND ALL AND IT WAS ON A COUNTY STREET ONCE I GOT IT CRUNK BACK UP IT SMOKED BADLY TILL I TURNED IT OFF AND IT TOOK FOUR HOURS FOR ME TO GET IT OUT THE ROAD
NHTSA complaint #11340041 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Greenville, SCFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
WHEN CRANKING IT STALLS AND CUTS OFF AND AFTER DOING IT AROUND 10 TIMES IT FINALLY CRANKS THEN I HAVE TO HURRY TO PUT IN DRIVE TO GET THE MOTOR GOING IN ORDER TO KEEP HER CRUNK AND COUPLE WEEKS AGO BECAUSE THIS PROBLEM SHE STALLED OUT AND I HIT A HOLE IN THE ROAD AND BUSTED THE OIL PAN SO SHE HAS BEEN PARKED EVERY SINCE CAUSE I HAD MY DAUGHTER IN THE CAR AND THAT WASN'T A PRETTY SIGHT SINCE THE HIT MADE HER NERVOUS NOW CAN'T GET HER TO GET IN THE CAR SO I NEED MY CAR FIXED AND I SEE IT HAS SEVERAL RECALLS AND ALL AND IT WAS ON A COUNTY STREET ONCE I GOT IT CRUNK BACK UP IT SMOKED BADLY TILL I TURNED IT OFF AND IT TOOK FOUR HOURS FOR ME TO GET IT OUT THE ROAD
NHTSA complaint #11340041 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 122,000 milesLynn Haven, FL1 injured
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WATER LEAKED INTO THE VEHICLE THROUGH THE SUN ROOF. THE WATER CAUSED DAMAGED TO THE HEADLINER AND FLOORBOARD CARPET. THE FAILURE ALSO CAUSED THE SEATS TO MOVE INDEPENDENTLY AND A GROWTH OF MOLD AND MILDEW INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THERE WERE SEVERAL WATER BUGS AND OTHER TYPES OF INSECTS INFESTING THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE WATER ACCUMULATION. THE CONTACT SUFFERED FROM MEDICAL DISTRESS AS A RESULT OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS BUT WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DECLINED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO TWO INDEPENDENT MECHANICS BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO DRAIN THE SEVERAL GALLONS OF WATER THAT COULD BE HEARD FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 122,000. THE CURRENT VEHICLE MILEAGE WAS 130,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10565772 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 122,000 milesLynn Haven, FL1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WATER LEAKED INTO THE VEHICLE THROUGH THE SUN ROOF. THE WATER CAUSED DAMAGED TO THE HEADLINER AND FLOORBOARD CARPET. THE FAILURE ALSO CAUSED THE SEATS TO MOVE INDEPENDENTLY AND A GROWTH OF MOLD AND MILDEW INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THERE WERE SEVERAL WATER BUGS AND OTHER TYPES OF INSECTS INFESTING THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE WATER ACCUMULATION. THE CONTACT SUFFERED FROM MEDICAL DISTRESS AS A RESULT OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS BUT WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DECLINED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO TWO INDEPENDENT MECHANICS BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO DRAIN THE SEVERAL GALLONS OF WATER THAT COULD BE HEARD FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 122,000. THE CURRENT VEHICLE MILEAGE WAS 130,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10565772 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 103,000 milesGlenview, ILCrash
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
DRIVING IN PITCH BLACK NIGHT ON BACKROADS OF CHARLESTON, SC. LIGHTS WENT OUT AFTER LEFT HEADLIGHT FLICKERED FOR A FEW DAYS. LIGHTS WENT OUT AND CAR WENT OFF ROAD AS WE WERE IN A CURVE. REGAINED CONTROL AFTER SPINNING ON WET GRASS. I NEED THE HEADLIGHTS REPAIRED BY VOLVO AT THEIR EXPENSE AND REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE FAILED ENGINE I HAD TO REPLACE.
NHTSA complaint #10490743 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 103,000 milesGlenview, ILCrash
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
DRIVING IN PITCH BLACK NIGHT ON BACKROADS OF CHARLESTON, SC. LIGHTS WENT OUT AFTER LEFT HEADLIGHT FLICKERED FOR A FEW DAYS. LIGHTS WENT OUT AND CAR WENT OFF ROAD AS WE WERE IN A CURVE. REGAINED CONTROL AFTER SPINNING ON WET GRASS. I NEED THE HEADLIGHTS REPAIRED BY VOLVO AT THEIR EXPENSE AND REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE FAILED ENGINE I HAD TO REPLACE.
NHTSA complaint #10490743 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
St Louis, MO
AIR BAGS
I was getting off the highway and made a left turn. As I was accelerating the motor gentle cut off.. (You wouldnt even notice if you wasnt driving) Full Traffic was behind me, so luckily I was able to get out of the way and pull to shoulder. It was the day before Christmas and car hasn't ran since. Upon investigation I found the CEM was effected. When the car died I was in left hand lane and I had to make my way to right, the shoulder. Yes the problem was diagnosed by myself. However I did investigation and researched using all data at library. It has not been inspected by anyone else. There where no warning lamps or messages prior to the failure. It happened all of a sudden in the middle of traffic when I was getting off the highway.
NHTSA complaint #11646424 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
St Louis, MO
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
I was getting off the highway and made a left turn. As I was accelerating the motor gentle cut off.. (You wouldnt even notice if you wasnt driving) Full Traffic was behind me, so luckily I was able to get out of the way and pull to shoulder. It was the day before Christmas and car hasn't ran since. Upon investigation I found the CEM was effected. When the car died I was in left hand lane and I had to make my way to right, the shoulder. Yes the problem was diagnosed by myself. However I did investigation and researched using all data at library. It has not been inspected by anyone else. There where no warning lamps or messages prior to the failure. It happened all of a sudden in the middle of traffic when I was getting off the highway.
NHTSA complaint #11646424 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
St Louis, MO
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I was getting off the highway and made a left turn. As I was accelerating the motor gentle cut off.. (You wouldnt even notice if you wasnt driving) Full Traffic was behind me, so luckily I was able to get out of the way and pull to shoulder. It was the day before Christmas and car hasn't ran since. Upon investigation I found the CEM was effected. When the car died I was in left hand lane and I had to make my way to right, the shoulder. Yes the problem was diagnosed by myself. However I did investigation and researched using all data at library. It has not been inspected by anyone else. There where no warning lamps or messages prior to the failure. It happened all of a sudden in the middle of traffic when I was getting off the highway.
NHTSA complaint #11646424 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Parkville, MD
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I’ve had to change my fuel injection pump and catalytic convert twice on one year.
NHTSA complaint #11532420 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Parkville, MD
ENGINE
I’ve had to change my fuel injection pump and catalytic convert twice on one year.
NHTSA complaint #11532420 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Parkville, MD
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I’ve had to change my fuel injection pump and catalytic convert twice on one year.
NHTSA complaint #11532420 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
92336, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
ADAS, AIR BAR Warning lights/urgent and High Gas fumes coming out from the rear seats when fully filled gas. We had called 800-458-1552 and guided us to plug in our VIN [XXX] on www.volvocars.com and nothing showed as far as recall and told us that these recalls expired and our 2005 Volvo are not eligible. 2005 Volvo XC90 that relates to NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V483000, Make: VOLVO Model: XC90 Model Year: 2005 Manufacturer: VOLVO CARS OF N.A. LLC. Mfr's Report Date: DEC 17, 2009 NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 09V483000 NHTSA Action Number: PE09039 Component: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINEELIVERY:FUEL PUMP Potential Number of Units Affected: 136100 Summary: VOLVO IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2005 S80, MODEL YEAR 2001-2004 V70, S60, XC70 AND MODEL YEAR 2003-2005 XC90 VEHICLES SOLD IN OR REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF ALABAMA, ARIZONA, ARKANSAS, CALIFORNIA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, HAWAII, KENTUCKY, LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI, NEVADA, NEW MEXICO, NORTH CAROLINA, OKLAHOMA, SOUTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, UTAH, VIRGINIA AND THE U.S. TERRITORIES. WHEN EXPOSED TO CERTAIN ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS (HOT CLIMATE AND TEMPERATURE CYCLING) OVER TIME AND IN COMBINATION WITH VARYING FUEL QUALITY, THE FUEL PUMP CAN DEVELOP CRACKS IN THE FUEL PUMP FLANGE. Consequence: IF THE CONDITION OCCURS VEHICLE OWNERS MAY NOTICE FUEL SMELL AND/OR FUEL LEAK WHICH, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE. Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL PUMP INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE, AND IF NECESSARY REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP WITH A PART OF A MODIFIED DESIGN. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JANUARY 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLVO AT 1-800-458-1552. My wife and I had purchased our Volvo XC90 in 2005, here in CA. Six months ago everytime we filled up the gas tank, we would smell a heavy fumes of gas as it was coming from the inside of the vehicle. We had called the Volvo 800 number above and guided us to plug in our VIN [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA
NHTSA complaint #11525043 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Alameda, CA
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Water is leaking from the windshield into the driver and passenger side inside on the window obstructing my view while driving. Cannot drive the vehicle while it’s raining. Serious safety problem! Please recall and fix all Volvos with this problem.
NHTSA complaint #11502170 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 138 milesLAS Vegas, NV
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I HAD FILLED AN EARLIER COMPLAINT AND THIS TO BE ADDED TO THE EARLIER FORM THAT I HAD FILLED NEEDS TO GO TO THE ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT. SEE PHOTO THE ELECTRICAL COMPLAINT FROM THE MAGNETIC ELECTRICAL BEINGS IN ME AND IN THIS PICTURE I BELIEVE IS ABOUT DESIGN OF THE FUSES IN VEHICLE AND WHAT THEY ARE TRYIN TO COMMUNICATE HERE I BELIEVE WOULD BE THE DISTANCE BETWEEN THE POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE CONNECTIONS LIKE WHAT IT IS DOING TO THEM AS IT GOES THROUGH THOSE TYPES OF FUSES. WHAT I BELIEVE TO BE WHAT HAPPENS TO THEM IN THOSE PLASTIC FUSES AND WOULD LIKE THEM THE FUSE TO BE DESIGNED FURTHER APART A LITTLE BIT BIGGER THAN A PENNY AND WITH THE CONNECTION STRAIGHT ACROSS AND NOT GOING UP AND DOWN AND BACK THROUGH IT SELF. THE MAGNETIC BEINGS WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE CONNECTIONS STRAIGHT ACROSS SO THAT THEY DON'T INTERFERE WITH EACH OTHER WHILE TRAVELING THROUGH THE SUBSTRAIGHT. NOT SURE BUT YOU WERE THIS TYPE OF BEING YOU WOULD TRY AND COMMUNICATED THESE THINGS AND DESIGN WELL JUST LOOK AND IF YOU WOULD LIKE THEY LIKE THE OLDER GLASS FUSE WITH THE STAINLESS STEEL DESIGN. IF YOU COULD THEY ARE ASKING THAT YOU THE NTSB GO BACK REDESIGN A FUSE THAT DON'T GO BACK INTO ITSELF THEY LIKE STRAIGHT ACROSS THE CONNECTIONS TO GIVE THEM BETTER FLOW. REMINDER THIS GOES TO THE EARLIER FORM THAT I WROTE TO YOU IT AN ADDITION INFORMATION CAUSE THEY ARE IMPORTANT PART OF THIS WORLD I AM REFERRING TO THE MAGNETIC BEINGS IN ELECTRICITY IN EVERY VEHICLE MADE AND NEED TO BE TAKEN INTO MORE CONSIDERATION ESPECIALLY WHEN MAKING SYSTEMS THAT HEAVILY RELY ON THE ENTITIES. THEY THE BEINGS ARE ASKING THIS OF YOU THENTSB TO TAKE THEM MORE INTO CONSIDERATION AS WE US THEM RELY ON THEM THE INVISIBLE MAGNETIC ELECTRICAL BEINGS MORE AND TO DEVELOP FRIENDLIER AND HEAVIER SYSTEM FOR THEM BECAUSE THE DESIGN NOW IS MAKING THEM SICK AND THEY ARE I AM ASKING FOR THE ENTITIES THAT YOU MAKE HEALTHYELECTRICITY
NHTSA complaint #11340785 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Greenville, SCFire
ENGINE
WHEN CRANKING IT STALLS AND CUTS OFF AND AFTER DOING IT AROUND 10 TIMES IT FINALLY CRANKS THEN I HAVE TO HURRY TO PUT IN DRIVE TO GET THE MOTOR GOING IN ORDER TO KEEP HER CRUNK AND COUPLE WEEKS AGO BECAUSE THIS PROBLEM SHE STALLED OUT AND I HIT A HOLE IN THE ROAD AND BUSTED THE OIL PAN SO SHE HAS BEEN PARKED EVERY SINCE CAUSE I HAD MY DAUGHTER IN THE CAR AND THAT WASN'T A PRETTY SIGHT SINCE THE HIT MADE HER NERVOUS NOW CAN'T GET HER TO GET IN THE CAR SO I NEED MY CAR FIXED AND I SEE IT HAS SEVERAL RECALLS AND ALL AND IT WAS ON A COUNTY STREET ONCE I GOT IT CRUNK BACK UP IT SMOKED BADLY TILL I TURNED IT OFF AND IT TOOK FOUR HOURS FOR ME TO GET IT OUT THE ROAD
NHTSA complaint #11340041 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Greenville, SCFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
WHEN CRANKING IT STALLS AND CUTS OFF AND AFTER DOING IT AROUND 10 TIMES IT FINALLY CRANKS THEN I HAVE TO HURRY TO PUT IN DRIVE TO GET THE MOTOR GOING IN ORDER TO KEEP HER CRUNK AND COUPLE WEEKS AGO BECAUSE THIS PROBLEM SHE STALLED OUT AND I HIT A HOLE IN THE ROAD AND BUSTED THE OIL PAN SO SHE HAS BEEN PARKED EVERY SINCE CAUSE I HAD MY DAUGHTER IN THE CAR AND THAT WASN'T A PRETTY SIGHT SINCE THE HIT MADE HER NERVOUS NOW CAN'T GET HER TO GET IN THE CAR SO I NEED MY CAR FIXED AND I SEE IT HAS SEVERAL RECALLS AND ALL AND IT WAS ON A COUNTY STREET ONCE I GOT IT CRUNK BACK UP IT SMOKED BADLY TILL I TURNED IT OFF AND IT TOOK FOUR HOURS FOR ME TO GET IT OUT THE ROAD
NHTSA complaint #11340041 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 216,000 milesGreenville, SC
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
BOUGHT CAR AND BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS EVERY SINCE I HAVE HAD PROBLEMS I KEEP FUEL INJECTION IN IT SO I CAN MOVE THE CAR TO POINT A AND B
NHTSA complaint #11319436 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Denham Springs, LA
ENGINE
THE KNOWN VOLVO BALANCE SHAFT FAILURE IN THE 05 XC90 V8 B8444S ENGINES SN UP TO 6833.VOLVO HAS KNOWN THE V8 ENGINE ON THE 2005 XC90 IS FAULTY SINCE 2005.SPECIFICALLY, THE COUNTERBALANCE SHAFT BEARING FAILING DUE TO WATER INTRUSION & HUMIDITY.MINE HAS NOT FAILED YET.I WILL BE LUCKY IF IT FAILS WHILE AT IDLE.BERGERON VOLVO IN METAIRIE, LA, SOLD ME A TICKING TIME BOMB TO DRIVE MY 4 YEAR OLD SON AROUND IN.THERE WAS NO DISCLOSURE OF THE KNOWN CB SHAFT BEARING FAILURE!I WOULD NOT HAVE PURCHASED THIS FOR ME & MY LITTLE BOY!MY ENTIRE ENGINE WILL EVENTUALLY SEIZE UP & MY OTHERWISE BEAUTIFUL CLEAN CAR WILL BE A LARGE & USELESS PAPERWEIGHT.IF THIS HAPPENS WHILE THE CAR IS MOVING AT SPEED,IT COULD CAUSE A HORRIBLE ACCIDENT!UNLESS VOLVO ACTIVELY (AND, I AM ONE OF THEM #1868) FINDS THE REMAINING AFFECTED ENGINES IN SERVICE & FIXES THIS PROBLEM, IT REMIANS A RISK REGARDLESS OF THE MILEAGE.MY CAR CURRENTLY HAS ONLY 72K MILES ON IT! I AM TRYING TO PREVENT THIS FORM HAPPENING, AND NEEDS TO BE PAID FOR BY VOLVO.THIS IS SOMETHING THAT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR ME TO PREVENTATIVELY MAINTAIN! APPROPRIATELY,THEY SHOULD ALSO REIMBURSE ANYONE WHO WAS AFFECTED BY THIS PROBLEM SINCE THEY LEARNED ABOUT IT BACK IN 2005. THE BERGERONVOLVOCARS.COM SITE STATES MR. DENIS BERGERON HAS AN OPEN DOOR POLICY, WHEREBY CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT HIM DIRECTLY,I EMAILED MR. BERGERON MY CONCERN LAST WEEK AND HAVE YET TO HEAR BACK FROM HIM. I WOULD LIKE A CALL BACK & SIT DOWN WITH MR. BERGERON TO HAVE THIS ENGINE DEFECT FIXED BEFORE I AM IN A HORRIBLE ACCIDENT OR LEFT WITHOUT A CAR.SOME WEBSITES FOR REFERENCE: HTTPS://WORKSHOP-MANUALS.COM/VOLVO/XC90_AWD/V8-4.4L_VIN_85_B8444S/ENGINE_COOLING_AND_EXHAUST/ENGINE/TIMING_COMPONENTS/BALANCE_SHAFT_BEARING/COMPONENT_INFORMATION/SERVICE_AND_REPAIR/ ; HTTPS://BLOG.FCPEURO.COM/THE-DARK-SIDE-OF-VOLVOS-EXCELLENT-V8 ; HTTPS://WWW.MATTHEWSVOLVOSITE.COM/FORUMS/VIEWTOPIC.PHP?F=10&T=87848
NHTSA complaint #11228807 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 14,042 milesWaco, TX
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 VOLVO XC90. EVER SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN NOVEMBER OF 2018, THERE HAD BEEN SEVERAL ELECTRICAL FAILURES. THE HEADLIGHTS, POWER DOOR LOCKS, AND POWER REARVIEW MIRROR FAILED TO OPERATE. ALSO, THE TRANSMISSION CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO JERK AND STALL WHILE DRIVING. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN UNKNOWN VOLVO DEALER, BUT THEY REFUSED TO PROVIDE DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL OR WARRANTY COVERAGE ON THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 14,042.
NHTSA complaint #11173516 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 14,042 milesWaco, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 VOLVO XC90. EVER SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN NOVEMBER OF 2018, THERE HAD BEEN SEVERAL ELECTRICAL FAILURES. THE HEADLIGHTS, POWER DOOR LOCKS, AND POWER REARVIEW MIRROR FAILED TO OPERATE. ALSO, THE TRANSMISSION CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO JERK AND STALL WHILE DRIVING. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN UNKNOWN VOLVO DEALER, BUT THEY REFUSED TO PROVIDE DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL OR WARRANTY COVERAGE ON THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 14,042.
NHTSA complaint #11173516 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Laurel, MD
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
GASTANK WAS LEAKING WHEN I WAS FILLING UP IN FULL TANK NOT VERY MUCH BUT I SMELL WHENEVER I WAS PARKING
NHTSA complaint #11143568 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,000 milesRockville Centre, NY
STRUCTURE:BODY
PASSENGER DOOR INTERMITTENTLY SWINGS OPEN WHILE DRIVING, EVEN WHILE LOCKED. FAULTY LATCH.
NHTSA complaint #11142576 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 122,000 milesST. Louis, MO
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A FUEL LEAK WAS NOTICED UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 57 MPH, THE VEHICLE SPUN OUT OF CONTROL AND ENDED UP ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. IN ADDITION, THE ANTI-SKID INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO VOLVO CARS BENTWOOD (314-644-9501, LOCATED AT 7700 MANCHESTER RD, ST. LOUIS, MO 63143) WHERE THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE SAME DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN REPLACED THE FUEL CAP AND STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT BE REPLACED A SECOND TIME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND STATED THAT THE WARRANTY WAS EXPIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 122,000.
NHTSA complaint #11133079 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 122,000 milesST. Louis, MO
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A FUEL LEAK WAS NOTICED UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 57 MPH, THE VEHICLE SPUN OUT OF CONTROL AND ENDED UP ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. IN ADDITION, THE ANTI-SKID INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO VOLVO CARS BENTWOOD (314-644-9501, LOCATED AT 7700 MANCHESTER RD, ST. LOUIS, MO 63143) WHERE THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE SAME DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN REPLACED THE FUEL CAP AND STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT BE REPLACED A SECOND TIME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND STATED THAT THE WARRANTY WAS EXPIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 122,000.
NHTSA complaint #11133079 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,500 milesKaysville, UT
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
BEGAN SMELLING GAS ODOR AND NOTICED A SMALL LEAK. FOUND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE FUEL PUMP FOR MY MODEL AND YEAR BUT WHEN I CALL VOLVO ABOUT THE RECALL, MY VEHICLE WASN'T INCLUDED EVEN THOUGH MY VEHICLE WAS REGISTERED IN THE STATES WHERE THE RECALL WAS ASSOCIATED.
NHTSA complaint #11123836 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesEightmile, AL
AIR BAGS
ALL THE VEHICLE LIGHTS WILL COME ON OVER THE DASH AND THE WHEEL LOCKS THEN IT SHUTS OFF WHILE I AM DRIVING. THIS IS SO UNSAFE FOR MY FAMILY. I AM NOT SURE WHY THERE IS NOT A RECALL FOR MY VIN # WHEN GOOGLE CLEARLY STATES THAT THIS IS A HAZARD AND THAT THERE ARE RECALLS FOR THIS PROBLEM.
NHTSA complaint #11097108 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesEightmile, AL
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
ALL THE VEHICLE LIGHTS WILL COME ON OVER THE DASH AND THE WHEEL LOCKS THEN IT SHUTS OFF WHILE I AM DRIVING. THIS IS SO UNSAFE FOR MY FAMILY. I AM NOT SURE WHY THERE IS NOT A RECALL FOR MY VIN # WHEN GOOGLE CLEARLY STATES THAT THIS IS A HAZARD AND THAT THERE ARE RECALLS FOR THIS PROBLEM.
NHTSA complaint #11097108 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesEightmile, AL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
ALL THE VEHICLE LIGHTS WILL COME ON OVER THE DASH AND THE WHEEL LOCKS THEN IT SHUTS OFF WHILE I AM DRIVING. THIS IS SO UNSAFE FOR MY FAMILY. I AM NOT SURE WHY THERE IS NOT A RECALL FOR MY VIN # WHEN GOOGLE CLEARLY STATES THAT THIS IS A HAZARD AND THAT THERE ARE RECALLS FOR THIS PROBLEM.
NHTSA complaint #11097108 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 95,000 milesGermantown, TN
POWER TRAIN
IN DECEMBER OF 2016, AT APPROXIMATELY 95000 MILEAGE, THE "SERVICE TRANSMISSION URGENT" MESSAGE AND LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR STOPPED FUNCTIONING AND MAKING LOUD CLANGING AND RATTLING NOISES. THE CAR WAS TAKEN BACK TO "INFINITY OF MEMPHIS" DEALERSHIP WHERE IT WAS PURCHASED WITH AN EXTENDED WARRANTY. THE DEALERSHIP ASKED US TO CONTACT "VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA" FOR DEFECTIVE TRANSMISSION, WHICH WE DID, BUT VOLVO REFUSED TO HONOR OUR CLAIM STATING THE CAR WAS TOO OLD, EVEN THOUGH IT WAS UNDER THE 100000 MILE WARRANTY. THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO "VOLVO OF MEMPHIS" DEALERSHIP, WHICH CONTACTED VOLVO MANUFACTURER AND INFINITY OF MEMPHIS DEALERSHIP, AND INFORMED US THAT THE EXTENDED WARRANTY WOULD PAY $5000 MAXIMUM TOWARDS A NEW TRANSMISSION, COST OF WHICH WAS 8000$, AND WE WOULD HAVE TO PAY THE REST OUT-OF-POCKET, ABOUT 3000$. THE OTHER OPTION WAS TO PUT A REFURBISHED TRANSMISSION AT AAMCO FOR 3000$, COST OF WHICH WOULD BE COVERED BY THE EXTENDED WARRANTY. WE ELECTED THE LATTER, SINCE THERE WAS NO OUT-OF-POCKET COST. AT THIS TIME, WE WERE TOLD THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT AND OTHER MESSAGES WOULD BE GONE, ONCE THE CAR WAS FIXED. HOWEVER, THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT CONTINUES TO REMAIN ON. ADDITIONAL COMPLAINTS WERE FILED, BUT AAMCO, VOLVO OF MEMPHIS AND INFINITY OF MEMPHIS CLAIM IT IS UNRELATED TO THE TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. A LETTER WAS SENT TO VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA LLC, ATTACHED BELOW, BUT VOLVO REFUSED TO LOOK INTO OUR PROBLEM SAYING THE CAR WAS TOO OLD. I SPOKE WITH A VOLVO REP OVER THE PHONE WITH NO RESOLUTION. WE WOULD LIKE FOR VOLVO TO INSTALL A NEW TRANSMISSION IN OUR VEHICLE, AS NUMEROUS FORUMS AND ONLINE SITES HAVE PEOPLE COMPLAINING ABOUT DEFECTIVE VOLVO TRANSMISSIONS IN THESE EARLIER MODELS.
NHTSA complaint #11073389 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chapmansboro, TN
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2005 VOLVO XC90 HAS MANY PROBLEMS. TRANSMISSION JUMPS AND JERKS WHEN SWITCHING TO HIGHER GEARS. ALMOST THROWS THE CAR OFF THE ROAD AT TIMES. ALSO, VEHICLE HAS MANY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS DUE TO CAR NOT BEING SEALED PROPERLY. THIS LEADS TO ELECTRICAL ISSUES INCLUDING FAULTY AIR BAG CODES, BRAKE LIGHTS AND REAR TURN SIGNALS GOING OUT. CAR HAS NO BRAKE LIGHTS NOR REAR TURN SIGNALS AT ALL. DEALERSHIP CAN NOT FIND PROBLEM SAYS IT IS DUE TO THE 2005 VOLVO XC90 NOT HAVING RELAYS AT ALL. AND ALSO FROM WATER BEING INTRODUCED TO ELECTRICAL PARTS.
NHTSA complaint #11044487 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
