Volvo, a popular choice by car buyers, has been a leader in car manufacturing since 1927. Volvo models hold an esteemed reputation for safety and luxury, especially with the flagship XC90 model.

Despite its reputation for reliability, Volvo experienced a sharp downturn by failing to update its aging fleet of cars. Consequently, Volvo was sold to a new owner, Geely and the 2018 XC90 was the first redesigned and updated SUV.

According to Volvo’s new owners “The 2018 XC90 could be the vehicle that wins back those who walked away [and] attracts those who never thought they would find a Volvo in their garage.”

Sounds great in theory, however, the fully redesigned 2018 Volvo XC90 has not been without problems or frustration. In fact, Volvo has released 124 Technical Service Bulletins for numerous defects.

Below is a brief list, highlighting some of the 2018 Volvo XC90 problems, and what you can do about them.

Problem 1: In-Car Electronic and Infotainment

A common problem with the Volvo XC90 is the failure of the display screen.  An owner complained that the screen goes blank in Consumer Reports:

“While driving the big screen blanked off, although the car continued to operate and the dashboard display continued to work..”

Another 2018 Volvo XC90 owner posted to Edmunds about a defect with the in-dash navigation system:

“Volvo’s technology screen is horrible totally User unfriendly and makes driving extremely hazardous worse than texting. Navigation is totally unusable voicing unrecognizable. I knew more about the car then the dealership Working with them was extremely frustrating ready to pull my hair out!!”

Problem 2: Brake and Braking System

The newly redesigned braking system of the XC90 has not satisfied Volvo owners. Many owners are complaining about the Antilock system (ABS) and experiencing other problems such as premature break weak. Found in the National Highway Traffic SAFETY administration site (NHTSA), a Volvo XC90 owner wrote

“12,000 miles on car, rear brakes are at 2mm, front brakes 4mm. Volvo dealer does not feel there is a problem with the car and insist this is normal wear. I have never owned a car that has needed brakes so quickly and with rear brakes failing before the fronts.”

Unfortunately, because of the many brake complaints, Volvo issued a technical service bulletin Volvo TSB #TJ33506-2-0-2018 relating to a squealing noise from the rear brakes at low speed and instructions on how to repair it.

In addition, Volvo has acknowledged a substantial brake vibration resulting in the need to issue another TSB. Volvo TSB #TJ332339.1.0 – 2017 addresses the brake vibration and attempts to repair the brake problem by adjusting the lockable wheel screws.

Problem 3: XC90’s Suspension

A repeated complaint by owners of the XC90 relates to problems with the XC90 suspension. An owner reported to NHTSA this suspension defect:

“From the first time pulling into our driveway, there was a distinct, muffled, aggressive “thump” in the front and rear end. The sound is independently from the front or rear suspension, depending on which is going over a bump. This occurs consistently when in slow speeds and going over an abrupt bump”

Problem 4: Transmission and Check Engine Lights

The 2018 Volvo XC90 was completely redesigned with a new transmission. Unfortunately, the Volvo XC90 transmission has experienced many problems, resulting in shuddering, hesitation and check engine lights.  One owner with a transmission problem reported in Edmunds:

“At 33k miles my vehicle began having transmission issues. They would temporarily resolve with computer updates and then go back into slipping.”

 There have also been many complaints in online forums regarding the transmission slipping out of gear. A report in Volvo Forums, an owner was experiencing nonstop failure of the Volvo transmission, requiring many repairs.

“my 2018 xc90 T6 momentum’s trans sounds like it slips when shifting into 2nd gear….It shifts but the motor stays in a reving range for 5-10 seconds until it fully engages 2nd gear. The rpms don’t shoot up like a slipping clutch but you can hear it not engage.”

 

Fun fact, the 2018 Volvo XC90 problems discussed are not isolated incidents. Check out the other models suffering from discrepancies:  Volvo XC90 2020

What Next? What Can You Do?

It should be clear to you now that the 2018 Volvo XC90 has numerous problems. If you have purchased or leased one, you may need to contact a Lemon Lawyer or Lemon Attorney to help you.

We know the problems with the Volvo XC90 and can inform you of your lemon law rights.  So, if you want to talk about how Lemon Law can help you, you need only get in contact.  We will be able to help you understand all your PA Lemon Law,NJ Lemon Law  and NY Lemon Law options.