Owners have filed 44 complaints
about the 2008 Volvo XC90 with NHTSA between 2008 and 2026.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 16 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 — 20
Against the median year of the Volvo XC90. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 35
6.8% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 57
33% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade:
A
B
C
D
F
ungraded
What breaks on a 2008 Volvo XC90
Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.
Electrical System
818.2%
Median failure at 101,000 miles
Engine & Cooling
818.2%
0 crashes, 1 fires · median 56,000 mi
Seat Belts
49.1%
Median failure at 66,000 miles
Transmission & Drivetrain
49.1%
Median failure at 60,500 miles
Other & Unspecified
36.8%
1 crashes, 1 fires · median 21,000 mi
Stability & Traction Control
36.8%
Median failure at 91,000 miles
Fuel & Propulsion
36.8%
Brakes
24.5%
Median failure at 50,660 miles
Equipment & Accessories
12.3%
Median failure at 38,500 miles
Seats
12.3%
Median failure at 24,000 miles
Tires
12.3%
Median failure at 69,000 miles
Windows, Mirrors & Wipers
12.3%
Median failure at 116,580 miles
Lights
12.3%
Acceleration & Cruise Control
12.3%
Median failure at 21,000 miles
Body & Structure
12.3%
Median failure at 116,580 miles
Steering
12.3%
Median failure at 91,000 miles
Airbags
12.3%
Median failure at 116,580 miles
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
38.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
616.7%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
513.9%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
411.1%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
719.4%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
822.2%
150,000+ miles
38.3%
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.
Frontal crash test
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
2008 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.
Feb 2008peak 4Feb 2026
Recalls on the 2008 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.
08V206000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
VOLVO IS RECALLING 102 MY 2008 XC90 AND S80 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V8 ENGINES. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH INCORRECT BOLTS TO THE ENGINE MOUNT.
Risk: THE ALUMINUM BRACKET FOR THE ENGINE MOUNT COULD BREAK DUE TO LACK OF ADEQUATE CLAMPING FORCE. THIS COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO COME IN CONTACT WITH THE SUB-FRAME, ULTIMATELY RESULTING IN A REDUCED ENGINE TORQUE OR STALLING OF THE ENGINE WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
07V563000
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THE CLIMATE CONTROL MODULE (CCM) MAY RECEIVE A 'SHUT-DOWN SIGNAL' FROM THE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM) AFTER IGNITION KEY INSERTION. IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS, THE CLIMATE CONTROL FUNCTIONS WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE (INCLUDING THE DEFROSTER) DURING THAT DRIVING CYCLE.
Risk: INOPERATIVE DEFROSTERS UNDER INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS COULD CAUSE IMPAIRED VISIBILITY WHICH HAS THE POTENTIAL TO RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY AND/OR VEHICLE AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.
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 20081507 units in Canada
Engine
Certain vehicles may have been inadvertently assembled with incorrect engine mount bolts. The longer bolts do not provide adequate clamping force to the bracket. In the worst case, the aluminium bracket for the engine mount will break, allowing the engine to contact the sub frame, ultimately resulting in reduced engine torque or stalling. Engine stalling would result in lost propulsion which, in conjunction with traffic and road conditions, and the driver's reactions, could increase the risk of a crash. Correction: Dealers will inspect the engine mount bolts for specific markings and, if required, replace the bracket and bolts.
Recall 20073902,324 units in Canada
Heater And Defroster
On certain vehicles, the Climate Control Module may receive a "Shut-down signal" from the Engine Control Module (ECM) after ignition key insertion. If this condition occurs, the climate control functions will not be available (including defroster) during that driving cycle. This can decrease the driver's visibility under certain driving conditions and cause a crash with personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will install an ECM software update.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 120,000 milesChoudrant, LAFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2008 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HER DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING AT 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE SEIZED WITHOUT ANY WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WHICH FAILED TO RESPOND. THE DRIVER VEERED OFF TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. NO WARNING LIGHTS CAME ONTO DASH PRIOR TO OR AFTER VEHICLE LOST POWER. NOTICED UNDER THE HOOD WAS SMOKING. THE DRIVER GOT OUT THE VEHICLE AND CALLED FOR HELP, WITHIN MINUTES THE VEHICLE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. NO POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. NO MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NEEDED DUE TO NO INJURIES BEING REPORTED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME AND PUT THE FIRE OUT AND INSTRUCTED US THERE WAS NOT ANY REASON TO CALL LOCAL POLICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY A LOCAL TOWING COMPANY ON A FLAT BED TOW TRUCK. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT PRIOR TO THE FAILURE THE VEHICLE WAS SEEN AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE HER DAUGHTER GOT HER ALTERNATOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER, VOLVO WAS CONTACTED AND THEY ARE PERFORMING A FURTHER INVESTIGATION ON THE CAR FIRE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. *TT
NHTSA complaint #11217502 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesChoudrant, LAFire
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2008 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HER DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING AT 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE SEIZED WITHOUT ANY WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WHICH FAILED TO RESPOND. THE DRIVER VEERED OFF TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. NO WARNING LIGHTS CAME ONTO DASH PRIOR TO OR AFTER VEHICLE LOST POWER. NOTICED UNDER THE HOOD WAS SMOKING. THE DRIVER GOT OUT THE VEHICLE AND CALLED FOR HELP, WITHIN MINUTES THE VEHICLE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. NO POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. NO MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NEEDED DUE TO NO INJURIES BEING REPORTED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME AND PUT THE FIRE OUT AND INSTRUCTED US THERE WAS NOT ANY REASON TO CALL LOCAL POLICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY A LOCAL TOWING COMPANY ON A FLAT BED TOW TRUCK. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT PRIOR TO THE FAILURE THE VEHICLE WAS SEEN AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE HER DAUGHTER GOT HER ALTERNATOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER, VOLVO WAS CONTACTED AND THEY ARE PERFORMING A FURTHER INVESTIGATION ON THE CAR FIRE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. *TT
NHTSA complaint #11217502 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 900 milesWashington, VACrash
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
MY 4 YEAR OLD SON WAS IN AN ACCIDENT WITH OUR BRAND NEW VOLVO XC90. I GOT OUT OF CAR TO TAKE A PICTURE (LEAVING THE ENGINE ON FOR AIR CONDITIONING) AND HE SHIFTED THE CAR OUT OF PARK, CRASHING THANK GOODNESS INTO A FENCE THAT SLOWLY STOPPED HIM. KNOWING HE CANNOT REACH THE BREAK I IMMEDIATELY TESTED THE GEAR SHIFT AND FOUND THAT IT EASILY SHIFTS OUT OF PARK WITHOUT YOUR FOOT ON THE BRAKE. WE HAVE RETURNED THE CAR TO THE DEALER WHO HAS ADMITTED "THE CAR'S SHIFTER IS BROKEN". WE ASKED TO CHECK ANOTHER NEW XC90 IT FUNCTIONED PROPERLY. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A FATAL ACCIDENT IF IT HAPPENED IN ANY OTHER LOCATION. WE ARE HOPING THE DEALER WILL FULLY REPAIR THE CAR OR OFFER US A NEW ONE. I AM NOT SURE I CAN TRUST THIS CAR AGAIN -WE JUST BOUGHT IT THIS MAY. HOW AND WHEN DID IT "BREAK" OR WAS IT DEFECTIVE TO START WITH? SHOULD THIS CAR HAVE EVEN PASSED ITS SAFETY INSPECTION? CAN I GET ACCESS TO THE FACTORY'S SAFETY INSPECTION? ARE THERE OTHER REPORTS OF BRAND NEW XC90S WITH DEFECTIVE GEAR SHIFTS? HAS ANYONE ELSE REPORTED THIS? I'D HAVE NEVER KNOWN IT WAS FAULTY IF THIS ACCIDENT HADN'T HAPPENED. I EXPECTED THIS SAFETY STANDARD, AS OUR OLD VOLVO HAD IT. FORTUNATELY MY SON WAS NOT INJURED, BUT SOMEBODY ELSE'S CHILD MAY BE. PLEASE CHECK OUT THESE CARS. WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT FROM THE DEALER?
NHTSA complaint #10233287 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Shelbyville, KY
SEAT BELTS
All seatbelts in vehicle sticks and/or catches have to use seriously more pressure on release button,or seatbelt/latch it’s self or both. My wife and children have had me have to come get it because it wouldn’t release. Engine motor mount bolt had to be replaced, I noticed when alternator went out, vehicle wouldn’t respond from throttle acted like it was missing then threw dash lights then no lights all of a sudden it happened within 1-2mins vehicle wouldn’t respond while running stopped in middle of road. Didn’t give any warning was even going out. Locks not working right with key fob 1or more locks won’t lock/unlock including the fuel door lock, as well as child saftey locks coming on randomly. Steering locked in full turn left/right have to manually turn wheel because it will continue in direction wheel is associated in while moving instead of returning towards middle on its own momentum. Climate control fan not working properly not enough blowing force and ambient temperature sensor for climate control not regulating temperature/doesn’t read correctly.
NHTSA complaint #11715435 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Shelbyville, KY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
All seatbelts in vehicle sticks and/or catches have to use seriously more pressure on release button,or seatbelt/latch it’s self or both. My wife and children have had me have to come get it because it wouldn’t release. Engine motor mount bolt had to be replaced, I noticed when alternator went out, vehicle wouldn’t respond from throttle acted like it was missing then threw dash lights then no lights all of a sudden it happened within 1-2mins vehicle wouldn’t respond while running stopped in middle of road. Didn’t give any warning was even going out. Locks not working right with key fob 1or more locks won’t lock/unlock including the fuel door lock, as well as child saftey locks coming on randomly. Steering locked in full turn left/right have to manually turn wheel because it will continue in direction wheel is associated in while moving instead of returning towards middle on its own momentum. Climate control fan not working properly not enough blowing force and ambient temperature sensor for climate control not regulating temperature/doesn’t read correctly.
NHTSA complaint #11715435 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Shelbyville, KY
ENGINE
All seatbelts in vehicle sticks and/or catches have to use seriously more pressure on release button,or seatbelt/latch it’s self or both. My wife and children have had me have to come get it because it wouldn’t release. Engine motor mount bolt had to be replaced, I noticed when alternator went out, vehicle wouldn’t respond from throttle acted like it was missing then threw dash lights then no lights all of a sudden it happened within 1-2mins vehicle wouldn’t respond while running stopped in middle of road. Didn’t give any warning was even going out. Locks not working right with key fob 1or more locks won’t lock/unlock including the fuel door lock, as well as child saftey locks coming on randomly. Steering locked in full turn left/right have to manually turn wheel because it will continue in direction wheel is associated in while moving instead of returning towards middle on its own momentum. Climate control fan not working properly not enough blowing force and ambient temperature sensor for climate control not regulating temperature/doesn’t read correctly.
NHTSA complaint #11715435 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Gate, CA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Well I was at a red light waiting for the light to train green when I stepped on the Excelerator pedal I heard something snapped and the car would not move anymore I try to switch gears and the car would not move at all it would just accelerate the engine will sound like Like if I had the car on Neutral. In any gear I try to shift there was no warning in the vehicle no light turned on the only light that it was turned on was the one with the check engine because of the Cadillac converter but other than that no other lights were coming out or flashing
NHTSA complaint #11457064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Gate, CA
ENGINE
Well I was at a red light waiting for the light to train green when I stepped on the Excelerator pedal I heard something snapped and the car would not move anymore I try to switch gears and the car would not move at all it would just accelerate the engine will sound like Like if I had the car on Neutral. In any gear I try to shift there was no warning in the vehicle no light turned on the only light that it was turned on was the one with the check engine because of the Cadillac converter but other than that no other lights were coming out or flashing
NHTSA complaint #11457064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Gate, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Well I was at a red light waiting for the light to train green when I stepped on the Excelerator pedal I heard something snapped and the car would not move anymore I try to switch gears and the car would not move at all it would just accelerate the engine will sound like Like if I had the car on Neutral. In any gear I try to shift there was no warning in the vehicle no light turned on the only light that it was turned on was the one with the check engine because of the Cadillac converter but other than that no other lights were coming out or flashing
NHTSA complaint #11457064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 188,000 milesChesterfield, VA
SEAT BELTS
2008 VOLVO XC90 V8 HAS BEEN TOWED 3X IN THE PAST MONTH. THE BATTERY HAS COMPLETELY AND INCONSISTENTLY DRAINED. THEY CHECKED RELAY SWITCHES, FUSES, ALTERNATOR, STARTER, BATTERY CONNECTIONS, ETC. 3X IN THE SHOP! SO FED UP. CAR IS NOW IN SHOP AND I'VE READ THAT VOLVO IS IN A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT FOR BATTERY DRAIN FROM SIRIUS RADIO EVEN IF YOU DO NOT HAVE THE SUBSCRIPTION. THEY ARE CHARGING ME $135 TO DIAGNOSE AT VOLVO RIGHT NOW. IT HASN'T BEEN DIAGNOSED AS THAT IS THE PROBLEM YET, BUT THE SERVICE MANAGER IS INCLINED TO THINK THAT'S WHAT IT IS. CLEARLY THEY ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. ALSO GOT STUCK COMPLETELY IN DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT AND THEN IT WOULDN'T WORK AT ALL. HAVING DOOR OPENING PROBLEMS ON DRIVER SIDE DOOR AND I'M JUST SUPER FRUSTRATED. THIS HAS AFFECTED MY BUSINESS AND SEEING CUSTOMERS, ETC.
NHTSA complaint #11242605 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 188,000 milesChesterfield, VA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2008 VOLVO XC90 V8 HAS BEEN TOWED 3X IN THE PAST MONTH. THE BATTERY HAS COMPLETELY AND INCONSISTENTLY DRAINED. THEY CHECKED RELAY SWITCHES, FUSES, ALTERNATOR, STARTER, BATTERY CONNECTIONS, ETC. 3X IN THE SHOP! SO FED UP. CAR IS NOW IN SHOP AND I'VE READ THAT VOLVO IS IN A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT FOR BATTERY DRAIN FROM SIRIUS RADIO EVEN IF YOU DO NOT HAVE THE SUBSCRIPTION. THEY ARE CHARGING ME $135 TO DIAGNOSE AT VOLVO RIGHT NOW. IT HASN'T BEEN DIAGNOSED AS THAT IS THE PROBLEM YET, BUT THE SERVICE MANAGER IS INCLINED TO THINK THAT'S WHAT IT IS. CLEARLY THEY ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. ALSO GOT STUCK COMPLETELY IN DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT AND THEN IT WOULDN'T WORK AT ALL. HAVING DOOR OPENING PROBLEMS ON DRIVER SIDE DOOR AND I'M JUST SUPER FRUSTRATED. THIS HAS AFFECTED MY BUSINESS AND SEEING CUSTOMERS, ETC.
NHTSA complaint #11242605 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 188,000 milesChesterfield, VA
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
2008 VOLVO XC90 V8 HAS BEEN TOWED 3X IN THE PAST MONTH. THE BATTERY HAS COMPLETELY AND INCONSISTENTLY DRAINED. THEY CHECKED RELAY SWITCHES, FUSES, ALTERNATOR, STARTER, BATTERY CONNECTIONS, ETC. 3X IN THE SHOP! SO FED UP. CAR IS NOW IN SHOP AND I'VE READ THAT VOLVO IS IN A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT FOR BATTERY DRAIN FROM SIRIUS RADIO EVEN IF YOU DO NOT HAVE THE SUBSCRIPTION. THEY ARE CHARGING ME $135 TO DIAGNOSE AT VOLVO RIGHT NOW. IT HASN'T BEEN DIAGNOSED AS THAT IS THE PROBLEM YET, BUT THE SERVICE MANAGER IS INCLINED TO THINK THAT'S WHAT IT IS. CLEARLY THEY ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. ALSO GOT STUCK COMPLETELY IN DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT AND THEN IT WOULDN'T WORK AT ALL. HAVING DOOR OPENING PROBLEMS ON DRIVER SIDE DOOR AND I'M JUST SUPER FRUSTRATED. THIS HAS AFFECTED MY BUSINESS AND SEEING CUSTOMERS, ETC.
NHTSA complaint #11242605 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charleston, WV
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTING ROUGH 1-2 GEAR AND 5 TO 6 GEAR. THE DOWNSHIFT FROM 3-2 AND 2-1 IS REALLY ROUGH. I HAVE SEEN SO MANY PEOPLE WITH THIS TRANSMISSION WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. IT SHOULD BE ADDRESSED, EVEN ON THESE OLDER VOLVO'S.
NHTSA complaint #11240483 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesChoudrant, LAFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2008 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HER DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING AT 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE SEIZED WITHOUT ANY WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WHICH FAILED TO RESPOND. THE DRIVER VEERED OFF TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. NO WARNING LIGHTS CAME ONTO DASH PRIOR TO OR AFTER VEHICLE LOST POWER. NOTICED UNDER THE HOOD WAS SMOKING. THE DRIVER GOT OUT THE VEHICLE AND CALLED FOR HELP, WITHIN MINUTES THE VEHICLE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. NO POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. NO MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NEEDED DUE TO NO INJURIES BEING REPORTED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME AND PUT THE FIRE OUT AND INSTRUCTED US THERE WAS NOT ANY REASON TO CALL LOCAL POLICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY A LOCAL TOWING COMPANY ON A FLAT BED TOW TRUCK. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT PRIOR TO THE FAILURE THE VEHICLE WAS SEEN AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE HER DAUGHTER GOT HER ALTERNATOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER, VOLVO WAS CONTACTED AND THEY ARE PERFORMING A FURTHER INVESTIGATION ON THE CAR FIRE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. *TT
NHTSA complaint #11217502 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesChoudrant, LAFire
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2008 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HER DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING AT 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE SEIZED WITHOUT ANY WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WHICH FAILED TO RESPOND. THE DRIVER VEERED OFF TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. NO WARNING LIGHTS CAME ONTO DASH PRIOR TO OR AFTER VEHICLE LOST POWER. NOTICED UNDER THE HOOD WAS SMOKING. THE DRIVER GOT OUT THE VEHICLE AND CALLED FOR HELP, WITHIN MINUTES THE VEHICLE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. NO POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. NO MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NEEDED DUE TO NO INJURIES BEING REPORTED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME AND PUT THE FIRE OUT AND INSTRUCTED US THERE WAS NOT ANY REASON TO CALL LOCAL POLICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY A LOCAL TOWING COMPANY ON A FLAT BED TOW TRUCK. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT PRIOR TO THE FAILURE THE VEHICLE WAS SEEN AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE HER DAUGHTER GOT HER ALTERNATOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER, VOLVO WAS CONTACTED AND THEY ARE PERFORMING A FURTHER INVESTIGATION ON THE CAR FIRE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. *TT
NHTSA complaint #11217502 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Laughlin, NV
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
BOUGHT OUR 2008 VOLVO XC90 IN 2010. LAST SPRING WE NOTICED A VERY STRONG FUEL SMELL COMING FROM INSIDE AND OUT SIDE THE VEHICLE THAT BECAME STRONGER THE MORE WE DROVE IT AND FOR SOME TIME AFTER IT WAS PARKED. LOOKED IT UP ON U-TUBE, THE FUEL SENDING UNIT (FUEL PUMP) UNDER THE BACK SEAT LEAKS OVER TIME ESPECIALLY IN HOTTER CLIMATES. THERE WERE SEVERAL DIFFERENT COMPLAINTS ON LINE DUE TO THIS SAME ISSUE, CONCLUDING A DEFECTIVE PART ON THE FUEL PUMP THAT FORMS A CRACK ON TOP AND LEAKS FUEL WHEN VEHICLE IS IN USE.. CALLED VOLVO MAIN OFFICE, GAVE THEM THE VIN # AND THEY SAID "NO, NOT ANY LIST !!" SO WE TOOK IT TO THE NEAREST VOLVO DEALER IN LAS VEGAS, ALL MOST 2 HOURS AWAY. WE ALSO WANTED TO KNOW WHY THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS YELLOW. TURNS OUT THAT IT WAS THE FUEL PUMP AND THEY WOULD GLADLY REPLACE IT FOR $487.00 BUT WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO DO THE WORK UNTIL OUR NEXT VISIT-HAD TO ORDER THE NEW PUMP. THEY HAD US SIGN A WAIVER BEFORE WE LEFT BECAUSE THEY " RECOMMEND VEHICLE NOT BE DRIVEN DUE TO THIS BEING A SAFETY ISSUE" HAVE MY COPY IF ANYONE IS INTERESTED. WE TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK THE NEXT WEEK AND THEY REPLACED THE FUEL PUMP, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WENT OFF , WE PAID THE $487.00 AND THEY GAVE US A WARRANTY ON THE NEW FUEL PUMP FOR THE LIFE OF THE CAR . THEY WERE VERY NICE AND PROFESSIONAL. MY QUESTION IS WHY DID WE HAVE TO PAY $480. 00 FOR A PART THAT WAS FAULTY?
NHTSA complaint #11186347 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 134,000 milesRockville, MD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
FAN CONTROL MODULE NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY. LOSS OF COOLING SYSTEM FUNCTION AND ENGINE OVERHEATS. AIR CONDITIONER DOESN'T WORK PROPERLY. MECHANIC HAS CONFIRMED IT IS THE FAN CONTROL MODULE THAT IS FAILING. SAME YEAR DIFFERENT VEHICLES HAVE SAME ISSUES IN CASE # NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 09V218000 N/A
NHTSA complaint #11123204 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 91,000 milesHampden, ME
STEERING
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AND MY VEHICLE COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN AND THE STEERING LOCKED. I WAS ABLE TO PUT ON THE EMERGENCY SIGNALS AND THE BIG RIGS BEHIND ME BLEW THEIR HORNS. THEY WERE GETTING CLOSER TO ME BECAUSE I WAS DECELERATING AT A RATE THAT WOULD HAVE RESULTED IN A COLISSION. FORTUNATELY I WAS ABLE TO COAST INTO AN EMERGENCY LANE WHILE THEY WENT WHIPPING PAST ME. THE VOLVO SERVICE MANAGER STATED THAT HE HAD HEARD OF A SIMILAR SITUATION BEFORE. IN AN EMAIL TO ME HE STATED THAT "THE PRESSURE SENSOR WAS GIVING A FAULTS READING, OF EXCESSIVE FUEL PRESSURE. WHEN THE PEM SAW THE FAULTS READING, IT CUT THE FUEL TO THE ENGINE AS IT THOUGHT IT WAS WAY OVER PRESSURIZED." I FEEL VERY FORTUNATE THAT NOBODY WAS SEVERALLY INJURED OR KILLED.
NHTSA complaint #11112482 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 91,000 milesHampden, ME
ENGINE
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AND MY VEHICLE COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN AND THE STEERING LOCKED. I WAS ABLE TO PUT ON THE EMERGENCY SIGNALS AND THE BIG RIGS BEHIND ME BLEW THEIR HORNS. THEY WERE GETTING CLOSER TO ME BECAUSE I WAS DECELERATING AT A RATE THAT WOULD HAVE RESULTED IN A COLISSION. FORTUNATELY I WAS ABLE TO COAST INTO AN EMERGENCY LANE WHILE THEY WENT WHIPPING PAST ME. THE VOLVO SERVICE MANAGER STATED THAT HE HAD HEARD OF A SIMILAR SITUATION BEFORE. IN AN EMAIL TO ME HE STATED THAT "THE PRESSURE SENSOR WAS GIVING A FAULTS READING, OF EXCESSIVE FUEL PRESSURE. WHEN THE PEM SAW THE FAULTS READING, IT CUT THE FUEL TO THE ENGINE AS IT THOUGHT IT WAS WAY OVER PRESSURIZED." I FEEL VERY FORTUNATE THAT NOBODY WAS SEVERALLY INJURED OR KILLED.
NHTSA complaint #11112482 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 91,000 milesHampden, ME
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AND MY VEHICLE COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN AND THE STEERING LOCKED. I WAS ABLE TO PUT ON THE EMERGENCY SIGNALS AND THE BIG RIGS BEHIND ME BLEW THEIR HORNS. THEY WERE GETTING CLOSER TO ME BECAUSE I WAS DECELERATING AT A RATE THAT WOULD HAVE RESULTED IN A COLISSION. FORTUNATELY I WAS ABLE TO COAST INTO AN EMERGENCY LANE WHILE THEY WENT WHIPPING PAST ME. THE VOLVO SERVICE MANAGER STATED THAT HE HAD HEARD OF A SIMILAR SITUATION BEFORE. IN AN EMAIL TO ME HE STATED THAT "THE PRESSURE SENSOR WAS GIVING A FAULTS READING, OF EXCESSIVE FUEL PRESSURE. WHEN THE PEM SAW THE FAULTS READING, IT CUT THE FUEL TO THE ENGINE AS IT THOUGHT IT WAS WAY OVER PRESSURIZED." I FEEL VERY FORTUNATE THAT NOBODY WAS SEVERALLY INJURED OR KILLED.
NHTSA complaint #11112482 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 21,000 milesHuntsville, AL
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I OWN A 2008 XC90 WITH ONLY 21000 MILES ON IT. WHILE DRIVING, WITH MY CHILD IN MY CAR, I RECEIVED A MESSAGE "REDUCED ENGINE PERFORMANCE" AND MY CAR STARTED SPUTTERING. I BARELY MADE IT HOME, GOING OVER A SMALL HILL WAS A STRUGGLE. MIND YOU, THIS HAPPENED AT NIGHT AND I WAS SCARED TO DEATH THAT I WAS GOING TO BE STRANDED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH MY CHILD. I HAVE READ ON FORUMS THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED TO OTHER CUSTOMERS AND VOLVO CURRENTLY HAS A VOLUNTARY RECALL FOR ETM AT NO COST TO THE CONSUMER. WHEN I ENTERED MY VIN ON THE VOLVO SITE NOTHING CAME UP. THIS IS MY MODE OF TRANSPORTATION AND I AM TERRIFIED TO DRIVE IT UNTIL THIS GETS RESOLVED QUICKLY.
NHTSA complaint #10925566 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 21,000 milesHuntsville, AL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I OWN A 2008 XC90 WITH ONLY 21000 MILES ON IT. WHILE DRIVING, WITH MY CHILD IN MY CAR, I RECEIVED A MESSAGE "REDUCED ENGINE PERFORMANCE" AND MY CAR STARTED SPUTTERING. I BARELY MADE IT HOME, GOING OVER A SMALL HILL WAS A STRUGGLE. MIND YOU, THIS HAPPENED AT NIGHT AND I WAS SCARED TO DEATH THAT I WAS GOING TO BE STRANDED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH MY CHILD. I HAVE READ ON FORUMS THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED TO OTHER CUSTOMERS AND VOLVO CURRENTLY HAS A VOLUNTARY RECALL FOR ETM AT NO COST TO THE CONSUMER. WHEN I ENTERED MY VIN ON THE VOLVO SITE NOTHING CAME UP. THIS IS MY MODE OF TRANSPORTATION AND I AM TERRIFIED TO DRIVE IT UNTIL THIS GETS RESOLVED QUICKLY.
NHTSA complaint #10925566 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 21,000 milesHuntsville, AL
ENGINE
I OWN A 2008 XC90 WITH ONLY 21000 MILES ON IT. WHILE DRIVING, WITH MY CHILD IN MY CAR, I RECEIVED A MESSAGE "REDUCED ENGINE PERFORMANCE" AND MY CAR STARTED SPUTTERING. I BARELY MADE IT HOME, GOING OVER A SMALL HILL WAS A STRUGGLE. MIND YOU, THIS HAPPENED AT NIGHT AND I WAS SCARED TO DEATH THAT I WAS GOING TO BE STRANDED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH MY CHILD. I HAVE READ ON FORUMS THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED TO OTHER CUSTOMERS AND VOLVO CURRENTLY HAS A VOLUNTARY RECALL FOR ETM AT NO COST TO THE CONSUMER. WHEN I ENTERED MY VIN ON THE VOLVO SITE NOTHING CAME UP. THIS IS MY MODE OF TRANSPORTATION AND I AM TERRIFIED TO DRIVE IT UNTIL THIS GETS RESOLVED QUICKLY.
NHTSA complaint #10925566 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 116,580 milesIrvington, NY
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLVO XC90. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE BATTERY WARNING INDICATOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED. A FEW MOMENTS LATER, OTHER UNKNOWN WARNING INDICATORS BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE. THE VEHICLE WAS MANEUVERED TO A SAFE LOCATION. THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE POWER WINDOW SWITCHES FAILED TO OPERATE WHEN ACTIVATED. THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF AND FAILED TO RESTART. ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND JUMPSTARTED THE BATTERY. THE VEHICLE RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE SRS WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED FOR TWO YEARS AND CONTINUED. THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR AJAR MESSAGE DISPLAYED EVEN THOUGH THE DOORS WERE CLOSED IN A SECURED POSITION. IN ADDITION, THE CHILD LOCK FAULT MESSAGE ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURES RECURRED AND PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,580.
NHTSA complaint #10893158 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 116,580 milesIrvington, NY
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLVO XC90. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE BATTERY WARNING INDICATOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED. A FEW MOMENTS LATER, OTHER UNKNOWN WARNING INDICATORS BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE. THE VEHICLE WAS MANEUVERED TO A SAFE LOCATION. THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE POWER WINDOW SWITCHES FAILED TO OPERATE WHEN ACTIVATED. THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF AND FAILED TO RESTART. ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND JUMPSTARTED THE BATTERY. THE VEHICLE RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE SRS WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED FOR TWO YEARS AND CONTINUED. THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR AJAR MESSAGE DISPLAYED EVEN THOUGH THE DOORS WERE CLOSED IN A SECURED POSITION. IN ADDITION, THE CHILD LOCK FAULT MESSAGE ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURES RECURRED AND PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,580.
NHTSA complaint #10893158 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 116,580 milesIrvington, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLVO XC90. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE BATTERY WARNING INDICATOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED. A FEW MOMENTS LATER, OTHER UNKNOWN WARNING INDICATORS BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE. THE VEHICLE WAS MANEUVERED TO A SAFE LOCATION. THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE POWER WINDOW SWITCHES FAILED TO OPERATE WHEN ACTIVATED. THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF AND FAILED TO RESTART. ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND JUMPSTARTED THE BATTERY. THE VEHICLE RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE SRS WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED FOR TWO YEARS AND CONTINUED. THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR AJAR MESSAGE DISPLAYED EVEN THOUGH THE DOORS WERE CLOSED IN A SECURED POSITION. IN ADDITION, THE CHILD LOCK FAULT MESSAGE ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURES RECURRED AND PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,580.
NHTSA complaint #10893158 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 116,580 milesIrvington, NY
VISIBILITY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLVO XC90. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE BATTERY WARNING INDICATOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED. A FEW MOMENTS LATER, OTHER UNKNOWN WARNING INDICATORS BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE. THE VEHICLE WAS MANEUVERED TO A SAFE LOCATION. THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE POWER WINDOW SWITCHES FAILED TO OPERATE WHEN ACTIVATED. THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF AND FAILED TO RESTART. ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND JUMPSTARTED THE BATTERY. THE VEHICLE RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE SRS WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED FOR TWO YEARS AND CONTINUED. THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR AJAR MESSAGE DISPLAYED EVEN THOUGH THE DOORS WERE CLOSED IN A SECURED POSITION. IN ADDITION, THE CHILD LOCK FAULT MESSAGE ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURES RECURRED AND PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,580.
NHTSA complaint #10893158 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 93,000 milesPhiladelphia, PA
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLVO XC90. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE DISPLAYED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OVERHEATED. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT CYLINDER THREE AND SIX NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 93,000.
NHTSA complaint #10764087 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
