Volvo V90
Drive-E turbocharged four-cylinder with 2.0 litres and 187 kW for the T5 range. Larger turbocharger than the T4 with higher boost pressure for a more sporting character. Eight-speed Aisin automatic as standard; strictly observe oil change intervals.
Powerful long-distance companion
Strong turbo for brisk motorway runs without strain. Typically Volvo: comfort remains the trump card.
Engine Weaknesses 6
All Drive-E T variants use belt drive. On the T5 with high-pressure turbo, the belt change is especially important — a failure causes immediate total engine damage. Recommendation: early change at 100,000 km.
Symptoms: No warning before sudden failure; possible squealing with failing tensioner
The high-output T5 Drive-E shares the piston ring problem with the T4. Vehicles up to MY2016 are particularly affected. Increased oil consumption is systemic and was covered by a class action lawsuit.
Symptoms: Oil consumption above 0.5 L/1,000 km, blue smoke on warm-engine acceleration, oil level drops noticeably between changes
The Drive-E T5 uses a timing belt (not a chain). Volvo's stated change interval is 150,000 miles / 10 years, but specialists recommend considerably earlier (120,000–150,000 km). Belt failure causes engine damage.
Symptoms: No early warning signs typical — sudden engine stop without prior indication at belt failure. Prevention: inspect for cracking at every service
The T5 is among the most frequently affected Drive-E engines for the oil consumption problem. Particularly 2015–2017 model years were addressed under a service campaign (S29650). Volvo extended the warranty to 8 years.
Symptoms: Oil level drops noticeably between changes, occasional blue smoke, no visible external oil loss
The crankcase ventilation of the T5 Drive-E clogs when oil change intervals are neglected. Crankcase pressure forces oil past seals, accelerates oil consumption and can cause turbocharger damage.
Symptoms: Overpressure at oil filler, oil in air filter housing, elevated oil consumption
Rubber boost pipes to the intercooler age and burst under driving conditions. On the T5, more frequent than on the T4 due to higher boost pressures. A short-term repair is often possible, but permanent hose replacement is recommended.
Symptoms: Sudden power loss, whistling or hissing noise, check engine light P0299 (turbo underboost)
Vehicle Weaknesses 10
A faulty weld between the rotor shaft and the hydraulic brake assembly was found on the V90 II and S90 II. If it fails, ABS, ESC and brake assist are disabled. Volvo issued a recall in 2021.
On XC60 II vehicles built between September 2018 and April 2019, nuts and bolts at the rear axle may be too loose. Handling can change abruptly; check recall status.
Plastic intake manifolds on diesel engines up to model year 2018 can overheat and pose a fire risk. Check for Volvo recall; affected models were fitted with metal manifolds.
Water gets into the windscreen wiper motor and causes it to fail. SPA platform models are affected; a 2020 recall addressed incorrectly tightened wiper arms. Visibility in rain significantly impaired.
The air suspension elements on the V90 Cross Country models show wear from as early as 70,000–100,000 km. A warning message and loss of ride comfort announce the failure; repair costs are substantial.
The Sensus infotainment system on the SPA platform (XC60 II, S90 II, V90 II, S60 III, V60 II) freezes or reboots while driving. Software updates improve stability. Steering wheel controls drop out sporadically.
The optional panoramic roof on the V90 II and S90 II shows malfunctions when opening/closing automatically. Faulty sensors or motor controllers can be expensive; water ingress possible if the seal is damaged.
The Sensus infotainment freezes or goes black and does not respond to touch. Smartphone connectivity problems are common; software updates usually help.
Bodywork issues are the most commonly reported weak point by S90 and V90 owners in reliability surveys (8.5%). These usually involve minor paint damage and localised rust spots.
Rear brake pads on the V90 II wear unevenly and generate heavy brake dust. The cause is the electric parking brake and automatic braking functions.