2008 Volvo XC90 AWD T5

Summary:

Perfection

Faults:

Rear door lock failed (driver's side). No big deal.

Nothing else has failed. Ride can be a little "truck" like from time to time, but no complaints (mostly bad Arizona roads).

After 150K miles, some interior bits are wearing (new headliner required, but I live in Florida and now Arizona, so that's to be expected).

LOVE LOVE LOVE the car and want another one someday. I bought it expecting to drive it to 250K or 300K miles.

General Comments:

Transmission: I made sure to buy the T5 rather than the 3.2 liter 6 cylinder engine which has a reputation of bad transmissions (not sure what year this stops in the XC90 models, but I would like a little more power in the next car without worrying about the tranny). Thank you CarSurvey.org for helping me avoid that expensive mistake!

SAFE: I was T-boned at an intersection: the other car hit me right at the gas cap above my right rear (passenger side) tire. Not a scratch. Not even a dent. His car? Front end obliterated. Took it to the dealer and said, "You are not going to believe this..." and he said, "We hear this ALL the time!"

Reliable, safe, stylish, roomy. I love this car so much it should be illegal.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 1st February, 2017

2nd Feb 2017, 23:57

I read and write on a daily basis on two large Volvo forums, and I can tell you this review is simply inaccurate. There is no Volvo out there that would go from 80000 to 180000 miles without several and costly problems, especially the XC90. You will need to replace the suspension, control arms, wheel bearings, PCV to name only the 'normal' maintenance items. And of course there are electrical and mechanical problems, not many, but very costly even when not fixed at the main dealer.

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2008 Volvo XC90 AWD 3.2

Summary:

An almost perfect car, with a hated dealer!

Faults:

In heavy rainy days, when putting the car in reverse, the rear parking sensor beeps. It has happened a few times, and the next day when the water is over, it goes away. I am out of warranty, and have been too lazy to go to the dealer!

General Comments:

This car is just perfect in every aspect. When I compare it with my Lexus, I find the Japanese car full of Mickey Mouse parts! This car is for a real truck lover, and at the same time my wife is eager to borrow it whenever she finds an excuse.

Aside from the dealer (which is not on the level of such a great car), I do not see any reason my next car will not be another (next gen) XC90.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th October, 2012

31st Aug 2018, 14:48

Be aware that all 2007 and up models with the 3.2 engine (including the XC90 and S80) have a very fragile thermostat housing made out of plastic with small tabs inside which break after 8 years and cause the engine to overheat. Replace the thermostat at 8 years old before it fails and leaves the car stranded.

https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=31&t=86205&p=481081#p481081

2nd Dec 2018, 09:24

If your 3.2 XC90 stalls due to the alternator not charging, see this video https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=2x9cufzCXmo

2008 Volvo XC90 AWD 3.2

Summary:

A great buy for anyone with a family,

Faults:

So far my new XC90 has been flawless. I have only had to change the oil and get it detailed.

General Comments:

The XC90 is a dream to drive with great visibility and the most comfortable seats ever. Long trips are easy in this Volvo.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 29th July, 2008