Model year

2003 Volvo XC90

SUV, AWD/All-Wheel Drive, built in Sweden. Owner complaints on file from Jul 21, 2003 to Jun 20, 2022.

Recall campaigns covering this model year5427k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints932.9 times the median 2003 suv
Severity index5.42003 suvs average 9.9
First 24 months12Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2003 Volvo XC90 peaked in 2008, with 18 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

0510152020032005200718200920112013201520172019202120232026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

53% of complaints about the 2003 Volvo XC90 name powertrain

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Powertrain
49
Electrical system
18
Fuel system
10
Engine and cooling
9
Suspension
9
Brakes
7
Structure
6
Equipment
5
Airbags
4
Steering
4
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

5 recall campaigns cover the 2003 Volvo XC90

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2003 Volvo XC90
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
10V-566Nov 8, 2010Volvo is recalling certain vehicles equipped with garmin 760 portable global positioning system (gps) units because the batteries on those units…Equipment416Part replacement
09V-483Dec 18, 2009When exposed to certain environmental conditions (hot climate and temperature cycling) over time and in combination with varying fuel quality, the…Fuel system158,733Part replacement
06V-155May 5, 2006On 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,…Steering126,743Part replacement
06V-144Apr 28, 2006On certain vehicles, if the wiper arm is activated in extreme winter weather conditions and without lifting the wiper arms and cleaning the…Visibility and wipers122,431Part replacement
03V-391Oct 10, 2003On certain sport utility vehicles, the seat belt attachment(s) for the second and third row seat(s) may not have been fitted properlySeat belts18,692Repair or modification
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2003 Volvo XC90

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

93 complaints on file, page 1 of 5.

  1. Filed Jun 20, 2022Failure Jun 20, 2022Spring Hill, FLFuel/propulsion system

    Fuel line was recalled in 2010. Volvo repaired it now it has the same problem. And is leaking fuel. Same line that they replaced in 2010. Please recall.

    NHTSA complaint 11470083
  2. Filed Feb 2, 2021Failure Jan 29, 2021141,000 milesSaint Louis, MOPower train

    TRANSFER CASE KEEPS LOCKING UP AND MESSING UP. IN PAST YEAR PAID 1500 TWO TIMES TO REPLACE TRANSFER CASE AND IS NOW IN SHOP AGAIN FOR SAME REASON. TRANSFER CASE LOCKING UP. FEB 2020, JULY 2020, AND NOW JANUARY 2021 FEB GOING SPEED OF 35-40, JULY ON HIGHWAY SPEED OF 70 IN MIDDLE OF FREEWAY, AND JAN SPEED OF 35

    NHTSA complaint 11394283
  3. Filed Dec 15, 2015Failure Dec 15, 2015230,000 milesBirkdale, DEElectrical system, Engine, Vehicle speed control

    DRIVING THE XC90 AND SUDDENLY THERE IS A HUGE THUMP AND CLICKING FROM THE DASHBOARD. ALL THE DIALS AROUND THE SPEDOMETER STOP WORKING.. IF WE KEEP DRIVING THERE ARE MORE THUMPS AND WE QUICKLY LOSE ENGINE POWER - IT IS EXTREMELY SCARY WHEN IT HAPPENS.. ALL THE LIGHTS COME ON (INSIDE THE CAR), DASHBOARD GOES DEAD ETC ETC. IT IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS .. IT HAPPENED TO USE A NUMBER OF TIMES WITH 3 CHILDREN IN THE CAR. IT HAS OCCURRED WHEN WE WERE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, 2-3 TIMES, IT HAS OCCURRED ON SHORT TRIPS - IT HAPPENS AT SEEMINGLY RANDOM TIMES, USUALLY AFTER DRIVING FOR OVER 30 MINUTES, BUT THEN YESTERDAY IT HAPPENED ON A TRIP JUST DOWN TO THE PARK, NOT 5 MINUTES DOWN THE ROAD.. ON THIS OCCASION THE CAR HAD BEEN SITTING IN THE SUN FOR A WHILE (MAYBE HEAT RELATED?). IT HAS HAPPENED IN HOT WEATHER, COLD WEATHER .. WE ARE IN CONSTANT FEAR WHEN DRIVING THE CAR. I HAVE CONTACTED VOLVO AUSTRALIA ABOUT THE ISSUE BUT THEY SAID THEY HAVE NO RESPONSIBILITY, THAT THERE IS NO RECALL FOR THE PROBLEM AND DIDN'T WANT TO HELP AT ALL!! I SEE A LOT OF PEOPLE HAVE THIS SAME PROBLEM, IS VOLVO NOT GOING TO FIX IT UNTIL SOMEONE IS KILLED??? WHAT WILL IT TAKE!?!?!?! IT IS A JOKE ! WE BOUGHT A VOLVO TO HAVE SOMETHING SAFER THAN NORMAL BUT ITS MORE DANGEROUS! I CANNOT EVEN SELL THE CAR BECAUSE I DON'T KNOW WHAT'S WRONG WITH IT AND I DON'T WANT ANOTHER FAMILY / PERSON TO BE INJURED .. NO RESALE VALUE, NO SAFETY! COME ON VOLVO, THIS IS CRAZY!

    NHTSA complaint 10810354
  4. Filed Aug 31, 2015Failure Apr 10, 2014114,687 milesAhoskie, NCEngine, Power train, Unknown or other

    WHEN THIS VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IT STARTED WITHIN 4 DAYS TO HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION, AFTER THE TRANSMISSION THE TRANSFER CASE BEGAN TO HAVE PROBLEMS, SO THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED IN THE SHOP BEFORE THE THIRTY DAYS TAGS COULD EXPIRE AND BOTH PARTS WERE REBUILT BY AN OUTSIDE COMPANY WHICH WAS ADDED TO THE ORIGINAL PRICE TAG OF THE VEHICLE. THEN A YEAR LATER THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED IN THE SHOP FOR THE TURBO'S HAD GONE OUT ON THE VEHICLE ON APRIL 11, 2015 UNTIL CURRENT DATE. THEY ARE NOW SAYING THE VEHICLE HAS A BLOWN HEAD GASKET AND IT IS STILL IN THE SHOP.

    NHTSA complaint 10760442
  5. Filed Aug 19, 2015Failure May 22, 2005Reading, PAElectrical system, Body

    VEHICLE DRAINS WATER ON TO FRONT PASSENGER FLOOR, AND OCASSIONAL DRIVER SIDE AFTER IT RAINS. IT IS A KNOW PROBLEM THAT A CLASS ACTION SUIT WAS WON IN NEW JERSEY, INCLUDING 5 OTHER STATES. THE WATER IS FROM CLOGGED DRAIN TUBES IN SUNROOF AND SOMETIMES SHRINKIAGE OF DRAIN TUBE THAT DISLODGES. VEHICLE NOW HAS A MUSTY SMELL FROM THE FREQUENT WATER IN THE VEHICLE. NOT SURE IF HIGH MOISTURE INSIDE HAS CAUSED MY CD PLAYER TO MALFUNCTION. ALSO HAVE A SHORT IN ELECTRICAL SYSTEM THAT CAUSE ME TO REPLACE 3 BATTERIES IN THE VEHICLE. ALSO THE SUNROOF MOTOR SHORTED OUT MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO REPLACE THE DRAINAGE TUBES THAT WOULD HELP CORRECT THE WATER ISSUES. HOPE SOMEONE CAN HELP.

    NHTSA complaint 10749784
  6. Filed May 11, 2015Failure May 10, 2015111,000 milesEnfield, ILFuel/propulsion system

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO XC90. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, FUEL FUMES EMITTED INTO THE VEHICLE. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT FUEL WAS ALL OVER THE EXHAUST PIPE AND THE BOTTOM OF THE FUEL TANK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP WAS CRACK AND LEAKING FUEL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN NUMBER WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN: 09V483000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 111,000.

    NHTSA complaint 10715762
  7. Filed Mar 17, 2015Failure Mar 13, 2015141,000 milesPhiladelphia, PAFuel/propulsion system

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT FUEL FUMES EMITTED IN AND AROUND THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS A LEAK IN THE FUEL PUMP. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND CONFIRMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V483000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 141,000.

    NHTSA complaint 10694911
  8. Filed Jan 29, 2015Failure Jan 27, 201592,000 milesNorth Beach, MDPower train

    TRANSMISSION FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. HERE'S THE STORY, MY XC90 WAS DEALER SERVICED A WEEK AGO (PM), TOOK ON A SHORT ROAD TRIP OVER WEEKEND, FORTUNATELY MADE IT HOME BEFORE IT BROKE DOWN. WENT TO WORK UPON RETURNING FROM TRIP AND WHILE I WAS PARKING THE TRANSMISSION FAILED TO ENGAGE IN ANY GEAR. VERY UNSAFE! NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED AND THERE WAS NO 'LIMP MODE.' THE RPMS ROSE AS IF IT WERE IN NEUTRAL. COULD HEAR A METALLIC RATTLING NOISE COMING FROM TRANSMISSION. HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED FROM WORK TO AAMCO. AAMCO STATED THE DAMAGE WAS INSIDE OF TRANSMISSION AND THEY WOULD NEED TO REMOVE AND TEAR DOWN TO SEE WHAT ISSUE IS, BUT MORE THAN LIKELY IT WAS A COMPLETE FAILURE. I JUST BOUGHT THIS CAR IN NOVEMBER AND LUCKILY BOUGHT AN AFTERMARKET WARRANTY THAT 'SHOULD' COVER EVERYTHING. ISSUE IS THE WARRANTY COMPANY WILL MORE THAN LIKELY JUST REPLACE IT WITH A USED TRANS THAT WILL FAIL IN A SHORT TIME AND I WILL HAVE TO GO THROUGH THIS AGAIN. THIS IS A MAJOR DESIGN FLAW ON THE PART OF VOLVO AND THEY SHOULD OWN UP TO IT. THE ENGINE PRODUCES TOO MUCH POWER AND THE VEHICLE IS TOO HEAVY FOR THE TRANSMISSION TO TAKE IT. THIS IS A T6 BTW, WITH THE 6 CYLINDER AND TWIN TURBO. VOLVO SHOULD HAVE A RECALL ON THIS TRANSMISSION. I HAVE SCOURED THE WEB AND SEE THIS IS AN ONGOING FREQUENT ISSUE WITH THE XC90 AND VOLVO IS LOSING WHAT WERE ONCE LOYAL CUSTOMERS. SEARCH THIS ISSUE ON THE WEB AND YOU'LL WONDER IF THERE ARE ANY XC90'S THAT DO NOT HAVE TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10679777
  9. Filed Jun 20, 2014Failure Jun 4, 2014108,000 milesLAS Vegas, NVFuel system, Delivery

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT GASOLINE FUMES WERE EMITTED INTO THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS A LEAK IN THE FUEL PUMP AND IT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN 09V483000 (FUEL SYSTEM). THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 108,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 109,000.

    NHTSA complaint 10604689
  10. Filed May 25, 2014Failure Mar 12, 2014155,000 milesANN Arbor, MIFuel system, Gasoline

    FUEL FUMES PRESENT WHEN THE CAR WAS TURNED OFF. MORE PRONOUNCED IN PARKING AND HOME GARAGES. DAILY HIGHWAY DRIVING (55 MILES ONE WAY) MAY BE RELATED TO RECALL OF XC 90 IN WARM STATES AS HIGHWAY MILEAGE SIMILAR IN NATURE. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10593942
  11. Filed Nov 29, 2013Failure Jul 7, 201379,000 milesLake Balboa, CAElectrical system, Electronic stability control (esc), Structure, Visibility1 injured

    I WAS NOT AWARE OF THE DESIGN DEFECT IN SUN ROOF & THE WATER DAMAGES THAT RESULT IN ELECTRICAL ISSUES. I HAD ALWAYS PARKED MY VEHICLE IN COVERED PARKING UNTIL MOVING THIS YEAR IN JANUARY. I HAD TAKEN MY CAR IN TO HAVE A TUNE UP IN NOV 2012 AT WHICH TIME I WAS GIVEN AN ESTIMATE OF REPAIRS NEEDED IN MY CAR. MY CAR REMAINED PARKED FOR MOST OF 2013 DUE TO HAVING MOVED I WASN'T ABLE TO AFFORD REPAIRS. THE REPAIRS WHERE INNER&OUTER TIE RODS,BALL JOINTS, MOUNTS, ARM BUSHINGS, ROTORS & BREAK PADS. THE ABOVE AFOREMENTIONED WHERE MADE. FOLLOWING REPAIRS I WASHED MY CAR AND DROVE OUT OF TOWN 4TH JULY WEEKEND FROM LOS ANGELES TO JAMESTOWN CALIFORNIA. ONCE I ARRIVED MY CAR REMAINED PARKED UNTIL RETURNING HOME JULY 7TH. SHORTLY AFTER STARTING MY CAR THE DASH GAUGES STARTED TO FLASH ON/OFF AND EVENTUALLY WENT OUT. AT THE TIME I HAD MY PORTABLE GPS, A/C WAS WORKING & I HAD USE OF WINDOWS (ROLLING UP & DOWN). I KNEW I HAD A FULL TANK OF GAS CAUSE I HAD FUELED UP PRIOR TO ARRIVING AT DESTINATION. BEING I WAS IN THE MIDDLE OF KNOW WHERE WITHOUT CELL PHONE SERVICE I DROVE AS FAR AS I COULD BEFORE I THOUGHT I MAY NEED GAS. WHEN I STOPPED TO GET FUEL I WAS NOT ABLE TO OPEN THE DOOR TO REFUEL WITH GAS. I BROKE THE CLIPS ON THE DOOR ALLOWING ME TO ACCESS AND FUEL TANK AND REFILL WITH GAS. IT WAS SUNDAY AFTER A MAJOR HOLIDAY AND THERE WAS A LOT OF TRAFFIC, THE ONLY VOLVO DEALERSHIP I PASSED WAS CLOSED AND I JUST WANTED TO GET HOME. SO I CONTINUED TO DRIVE AND WAS JUST GETTING ONTO THE GRAPEVINE AND TRAFFIC REALLY BACKED UP. THERE WAS A FIRE THAT HAD BEEN BURNING ON THE MOUNTAIN TO THE RIGHT AND HELICOPTERS WHERE DUMPING WATER ON THIS ONGOING FIRE. AROUND THIS TIME I NOTICED THE A/C HAD QUIT WORKING AND WAS BLOWING HOT AIR. I TRIED TO ROLL MY WINDOWS DOWN AND THEY WHERE INOPERABLE. TRAFFIC WAS AT A CRAWL AND THERE WAS NO PLACE TO PULL OVER. WORST NIGHTMARE EVER. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10554145
  12. Filed Aug 10, 2013Failure May 25, 2005Manasass, VAElectrical system, Fuel/propulsion system

    MY XC90 VOLVO IS VERY DISAPPOINTING THE DASH BOARD ON THE CAR COMPLETELY FAILS NO NOTHING NO GAS, SPEEDOMETER EVERY THINGS GOES OUT. IN THE NIGHT TIME ITS VERY SCARY ITS COMPLETELY DARK I DON'T KNOW HOW FAST I'M GOING HOW MUCH GAS I HAVE ITS SCARY. NOW THE FUEL PUMP IS GONE AND THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM BURNED OUT I CUT THE CAR ON HEARD A POP THEN I SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM HASN'T WORKED SINCE. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10534670
  13. Filed Apr 24, 2013Failure Mar 4, 201074,650 milesPipestone, MNElectrical system

    WELL WHILE OUT DRIVING LOCALLY ON A COLD WINTER DAY MY DASH BOARD READINGS WENT OFF AND CAME BACK ON A COUPLE TIMES..THEN IT HAPPENED AGAIN A FEW DAYS LATER....IT WOULD DO THIS ONCE IN A WHILE THEN IT STARTED GETTING WORSE AND WORSE TO THE POINT NOW IT COMES ON ONLY ONCE AND AWHILE...SO I HAVE NO READ OUTS FOR ANYTHING NO GAS, NO SPEED NO ANYTHING..AND WHEN IT DOES COME ON IT IS ONLY GAS AND SPEED NONE OF THE OTHER READINGS OR WARNINGS OH AND MY ENGINE LIGHT HAS STAYED ON THE WHOLE TIME ALL THIS WAS HAPPENING....GUESS WHAT I FOUND OUT IT IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH VOLVO THEY KNOW ABOUT IT ...YES WHEN THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED THEY SAID OH YES AND ITS NOT A CHEAP REPAIR...BECAUSE THEY ARE THE ONLY ONES THAT CAN FIX IT BY THE WAY SO IF YOU LIVE A LONG WAY AWAY FROM A DEALER TO BAD...THE PART AND ONLY IF YOU CHOOSE A REDONE/REBUILT/RECONDITIONED ONE WHICH IS WHAT I WAS TOLD NOT BRAND NEW IS $1100 AND THAT DOES NOT INCLUDE THE SERVICING AS THEY HAVE TO PUT IT IN AND HOOK IT UP TO THEIR COMPUTERS....SO WHAT WILL THAT BE WHEN THEY ARE DONE....I THINK VOLVO BEING THE CAR COMPANY IT IS SUPPOSE TO BE WOULD CONSIDER THIS A MAJOR SAFETY AND CONSUMER ISSUE AND RECALL IT AND SUCK UP THE COST ....I WANTED A VOLVO FOR THE SAFETY AND QUALITY...BUT AS WITH ALL THINGS I HAVE BEEN DISAPPOINTED ALONG WITH THE BALL JOINT ISSUE MY VEHICLE HAD THAT I WAS NOT NOTIFIED ABOUT..OH BY THE WAY I PAID TO HAVE THAT FIXED BECAUSE I DID NOT KNOW IT WOULD HAVE BEEN FREE IF I HAD DRIVEN 4 HRS TO MY NEAREST DEALER..YES IT WOULD HAVE BEEN WAY CHEAPER TO HAVE DRIVEN .AND THE LATEST I WAS CONTACTED ABOUT A TRANSMISSION ISSUE THAT HAS TURNED INTO A FULL BLOWN LEGAL CASE AND I WAS SENT A NOTICE TO JOIN THAT A WHILE AGO..... *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10509426
  14. Filed Feb 12, 2013Failure Jan 29, 2013145,000 milesRiverdale, GAElectrical system

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS STOPPED ILLUMINATING AND ALL OF THE GAUGES FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NEITHER DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 145,000.

    NHTSA complaint 10497922
  15. Filed Aug 15, 2012Failure Aug 9, 2007500 milesST. Louis, MOPower train, Steering

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD JERK ABNORMALLY AND WITHOUT WARNING. IN ADDITION, THE SHIFT GEAR LEVER WAS DEFECTIVE AND BOTH THE POWER STEERING FLUID AND TRANSMISSION FLUIDS WERE LEAKING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE AGE HAD EXCEEDED THE TIME FRAME IN WHICH THEY WERE WILLING TO OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY AND OFFERED NO ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 500 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 65,000.

    NHTSA complaint 10470810
  16. Filed Jul 26, 2012Failure Jul 20, 2012118,813 milesSouth Jordan, UTElectrical system

    WHILE DRIVING HOME FROM SCHOOL THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS AUTOMATICALLY CAME ON AND ABOUT THE SAME TIME THE BATTERY LIGHT AND ELECTRICAL WARNING SIDE CAME ON. IT ALSO AFFECTED THE POWER STEERING AND AIR CONDITION. HAD TO PULL OVER ON A BUSY STREET WHICH WAS NOT EASY. HAD THE BATTERY TESTED AND IT WAS GOOD, REPLACED IT 15 MONTHS AGO. CAR IS STILL SITTING IN THE GARAGE! *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10467784
  17. Filed Dec 12, 2011Failure Dec 12, 2011Columbus, OHPower train

    I HAD THE TRANSMISSION SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT COME ON. I TOOK IT TO THE MECHANIC AND HE SAID THE COOLANT HAS LEAKED INTO TO THE TRANSMISSION CAUSING THE TRANSMISSION TO GIVE OUT. THEY SAID IT NEEDS REPLACED AT A COST OF 6000. THIS WOULD BE THE 3 RD TRANSMISSION IN THIS CAR ALONE. THEIR ARE MULTIPLE PEOPLE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS IS VOLVOX FAULT AND IT NEEDS REPLACED ON THEIR DIME. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10439676
  18. Filed Jul 12, 2011Failure Jul 4, 1983150,000 milesTamarac, FLUnknown or other

    2003 VOLVO XC90 ENGINE CUT OFF SUDDENLY WHILE DRIVING ~70MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. WAS LUCKY I WAS ABLE TO MAKE IT TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITHOUT BEING HIT OR STALLED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROADWAY. DEALER UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM. I BELIEVE THIS COULD HAVE POTENTIALLY CAUSED A FATAL ACCIDENT CONSIDERING THE SPEEDS AT WHICH OTHER CARS WERE TRAVELLING AND THE POTENTIAL TO BE STRANDED IN THE ROAD. CAR HAS BEEN SERVICED REGULARLY. *TT

    NHTSA complaint 10412040
  19. Filed Mar 30, 2011Failure Mar 26, 2011120,000 milesPhiladelphia, PAAutomatic transmission

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLVO XC90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH THE TRANSMISSION BEGAN TO SLIP. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO MOVE FROM THE MAIN ROADWAY BUT AS SHE PROCEEDED INTO TRAFFIC, THERE WAS A SIGNIFICANT DECREASE IN ENGINE RPMS AND THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE URGENT SERVICE TRANSMISSION WARNING LIGHT THEN ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY ADVISED HER THAT THEY WERE UNABLE TO PROVIDE ANY ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 120,000.

    NHTSA complaint 10393703
  20. Filed Feb 6, 2011Failure Feb 1, 2011105,636 milesSarasota, FLElectrical system

    MY 2003 XC90 VOLVO INSTRUMENTAL PANEL IS FAILING. ONE DAY THE SRS AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON SEVERAL WEEKS LATER THE INSTRUMENT PANEL BEGAN TO FAIL. IT WORKS FOR THE FIRST 10 MINUTES THEN ALL GAUGES FAIL, NEEDLES ARE AT ZERO AND THERE IS NO LIGHT. BASICALLY THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL GOES BLANK (OFF) NO SPEED , NO RPM'S, NO GAS AND THE RADIO HAS STOPPED WORKING AS OF A RESULT OF THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FAILURE. AFTER RESEARCHING THIS ISSUE THERE ARE COUNTLESS XC90 VOLVO OWNERS HAVING BAD LUCK WITH THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FAILURE. COSTING OWNERS OVER $1000 TO REPAIR AND REPLACE AT VOLVO DEALERSHIPS. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10380872
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year

Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

239 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.

  • 35526.1.8 Apr 23, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Text plus 2 PDFs and 1 .PNG Oil Consumption test. Perform the test. Follow service procedure
 Description and Service sections updated to clarify that vehicle reports are not required.
  • 37809.1.1 Apr 7, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a TJ text only - The purpose of this TJ is to be a master reference list to easily identify any components that are on prior approval. This TJ will be regularily updated as items are added or removed from prior approval.
 Current items under pri…
  • 19245 Dec 6, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal. Vehicle type and platform identification.
  • 8501 Apr 10, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Remote connection, BOMGAR application. Before joining a remote session:
 •Connect a suitable battery maintainer/charger and verify that the battery voltage indicated in VIDA is between 12.5V and 14.9V.
 •Connect to the v…
  • S10303 Feb 21, 2025 · Service Campaign
    Volvo Cars USA LLC and Volvo Car Canada LTD on behalf of the Volvo Car Corporation has decided to launch Service Action S10303 on certain model year 2025 EX90 vehicles.
 Volvo Car Investigations have identified that there is a pairing issue with the key…
  • S10303 Feb 13, 2025 · Service Campaign
    Volvo Cars USA LLC and Volvo Car Canada LTD on behalf of the Volvo Car Corporation has decided to launch Service Action S10303 on certain model year 2025 EX90 vehicles.
 Volvo Car Investigations have identified that there is a pairing issue with the key…
  • 37175 Jan 16, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Vehicle/Connectivity report checklist. To provide timely and high-quality feedback to the appropriate department or factory
  • 8501 Jan 16, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Remote connection, BOMGAR application. Before joining a remote session:
 •Connect a suitable battery maintainer/charger and verify that the battery voltage indicated in VIDA is between 12.5V and 14.9V.
 •Connect to the v…
  • TJ27536.21.1-2024-08-07 Aug 14, 2024 · Other
    Information about valid Software partnumbers to order and download Software for "PDS" Pre-Delivery Service
  • 26745.13.14 Jan 12, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: 12V Battery Testing Method
  • C00009 Jul 21, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    COMPLIMENTARY UPGRADE C00009 DESCRIPTION.
  • TJ3656330 Jun 12, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Rubber cushion
  • CBR-2201 Aug 29, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Engine Control Module (EMS) Software (MSW) Information – August 2022; Improvement List (Change Log) - US21+OBD22 (13L VGT, TC) And US17+OBD22 (11L) Emissions
  • Special Tools Bu May 12, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The Deutronic DBL-1200 is an advanced battery maintainer/charger with the flexibility to be updated as products and repair methods evolve.
  • Service Manager May 6, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    ICUP/Google Built-In Diagnostic Operations
  • Service Manager Jun 23, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Battery Charger/maintainer requirement
  • Service Manager Feb 3, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Shipping and Handling of Volvo Lithium-ion 48V Mild Hybrid Battery to Global Battery Solutions (GBS)
  • 356EN01 Feb 9, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    VIDA QR Scanner Mobile App
  • TJ31007 Mar 15, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    XC90 Noise/Squeal from rear brakes
  • TJ 35978 1 0 Jun 25, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    New Software Products (SP) have been developed to convert a Care Key to a standard key.
  • SMB00-015-2021-0 May 25, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin : Volvo Electric Vehicle Technical De-Energization Permit to Work Form
  • SMB00-288-2021-0 Feb 19, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Volvo?s Warranty Department tracks Retailer warranty spending by utilizing the Warranty Retailer Counseling Process (WRCP). The WRCP is used to gauge individual retailer performance on objective measures over time. By setting clear performance expectations …
  • SMB00-015-2020-1 Oct 21, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin : Volvo Electric Vehicle Technical De-Energization Permit to Work Form
  • SMB00-015-2020-1 Oct 16, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin : Volvo Electric Vehicle Technical De-Energization Permit to Work Form
  • ST-001-2020-09-1 Sep 18, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Mandatory Tool List bulletin: Volvo mandatory Special Tools are necessary for technicians to properly diagnose and repair Volvo cars. They are used in development of Volvo labor operations and repair methods, and promote safety and quality repairs in a time…
  • SMB00-006-2020-0 Aug 5, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Service 2.0 Software & Total Upgrade Reminder
  • SMB00-006-2020-0 Mar 31, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Service 2.0 Software & Total Upgrade Reminder
  • TJ34740.1.3-2020 Jan 28, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: 4 Cylinder VEP engine: Castrol Edge Professional V 0W-20 Synthetic oil.
  • ST-001-2020-01-2 Jan 30, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Mandatory Tool List bulletin: Volvo mandatory Special Tools are necessary for technicians to properly diagnose and repair Volvo cars. They are used in development of Volvo labor operations and repair methods, and promote safety and quality repairs in a time…
  • SMB00-325-2019-1 Dec 1, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Service Manager Bulletin TITLE : Service Action Notification Re - Mails GROUP : NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : Product Safety & Compliance United States and Canada 00 325 REFERENCE BULLETINS : DATE : SMB00 - 323 and SMB00 - 323A YEAR MONTH DAY SERVI…
  • TJ31946.1.2-2019 Nov 19, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Swapping control modules from vehicle to vehicle for diagnostics should be avoided. Swapping control modules may result in consequential damage to the swapped control module and in certain cases several other control modules in …
  • TJ31946.1.1-2019 Nov 14, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Swapping control modules from vehicle to vehicle for diagnostics should be avoided. Swapping control modules may result in consequential damage to the swapped control module and in certain cases several other control modules in …
  • SMB00-006-2019-1 Nov 9, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Software Installation Policy changes.
  • SMB00-438-2019-1 Nov 9, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Technician Skillset Requirments
  • TJ31543.9.0-2019 Nov 6, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: This Journal is a guide for performing Software Downloads. Service: *See guide updated Oct. 12, 2016 for relevant P5/SPA Software Download information: P5_SPA_SW_Guide.pdf See VIDA Software tab for all other vehicles.The attache…
  • ST-001-2019-10-1 Oct 17, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Mandatory Tool List bulletin: Volvo mandatory Special Tools are necessary for technicians to properly diagnose and repair Volvo cars. They are used in development of Volvo labor operations and repair methods, and promote safety and quality repairs in a time…
  • TJ21965.7.0-2019 Oct 16, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Oil in cooling system. New cleaning method developed.
  • SMB00-325-2017-1 Oct 18, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Service Manager Bulletin TITLE : Service Action Notification Re - Mails GROUP : NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : Product Safety & Compliance United States and Canada 00 325 REFERENCE BULLETINS : DATE : SMB00 - 323 and SMB00 - 323A YEAR MONTH DAY SERVI…
  • SMB00-337-2016-1 Nov 29, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    VOLVO CARS SERVICE AND PARTS BUSINESS Service Manager Bulletin TITLE : Workshop Systems Requirements and Guidelines VIDA in 2015 , Peer - to - Peer Infrastructure GROUP : NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : United States and Canada 00 337 REFERENCE BULLE…
  • SMB00-006-2017-0 May 11, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Software Installation Policy changes.
  • SMB00-071-2017-0 May 10, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Descripition of Goodwill Policy and Guidelines.
  • ST-160-2017-02-2 Mar 3, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Dice Tool bulletin explaining the offer.
  • PB21-046-2017-04 Apr 13, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Please return stock of 31430070 service kit to your servicing distribution center.
  • SPJ32587.2.0-201 Apr 13, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Product Journal: VIDA will not support Windows 8.1 after June 30th 2017
  • TJ32564.1.1-2017 Mar 24, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: Replacing CEM or Recommunicating with a 'sleeping' vehicle
  • TJ31543.4.3-2017 Feb 24, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: This Journal is a guide for performing Software Downloads. Service: *See guide updated Oct. 12, 2016 for relevant P5/SPA Software Download information: P5_SPA_SW_Guide.pdf See VIDA Software tab for all other vehicles.The attache…
  • TJ20402.3.4-2017 Feb 15, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Technical Journal TITLE : The Error Frame Finder (EFF) can be an aid in fault tracing intermittent CAN network problems by providing a visible indication of error frames that are being transmitted on the network when the fault becomes active. The advantage …
  • SMB00-003-2017-0 Feb 3, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: Service Scheduling system enhancements. Improving Service Action/Recall scheduling.
  • SMB00-199-2017-0 Jan 14, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Service Manager Bulletin: The online bookstore, www.volvotechinfo.com, serves Volvo Retailers, employees, Independent Repairers and customers throughout the United States and Canada by providing easy order-access to service, parts and owners? lite…
  • ST-001-2017-02-2 Mar 3, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Mandatory Special Tool List
  • SMB00-425-2017-0 Mar 2, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Wiper blade replacements due to wear or a quantifiable manufacturing defect are covered under the Adjustment Coverage period for 12 months or 12,000 miles/20,000 kilometers, whichever occurs first.
  • PB77-017-2016-12 Dec 3, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Parts Bulletin: Wheel Cross Reference, used to assist in identifying the correct spare replacement wheel, by stamping, name and size.
  • TJ28941.1.0-2016 Dec 3, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Technical Journal: When sensitive information, like vehicle speed, brake usage, etc. (customer behavoiur information) of a car is required from Volvo Car Corporation from external sources, either of these two documents should be filled in and atta…
  • PB77-017-2016-12 Dec 9, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Parts Bulletin: Wheel Cross Reference, used to assist in identifying the correct spare replacement wheel, by stamping, name and size.
  • SMB00-424-2016-1 Dec 8, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    While performing repairs, on vehicles covered by Volvo's New Vehicle Warranty, the Technical Help Desk may support the dealer by providing a specific diagnostic labor operation. This will aid the Warranty Administrator when claiming reimbursement for diagno…
  • PB77-017-2016-12 Dec 21, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a Parts Bulletin: Wheel Cross Reference, used to assist in identifying the correct spare replacement wheel, by stamping, name and size.
  • SMB00-287-2016-1 Jan 4, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Please use attached file to create new version of bulletin. Please remove original bulletin by same number dated 2/18/2010.
  • SMB00-342-2017-0 Mar 18, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    VOLVO CARS SERVICE AND PARTS BUSINESS Service Manager Bulletin TITLE : The Volvo Replacement Part Lifetime Warranty GROUP : NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : Warranty United States 00 342 REFERENCE BULLETINS : DATE : YEAR MONTH DAY SERVICE SERVICE WARR…
  • SMB00-342C-2017- Mar 18, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    VOLVO CARS SERVICE AND PARTS BUSINESS Service Manager Bulletin TITLE : Volvo Lifetime Replacement Parts & Labour Warranty GROUP : NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : Warranty Canada 00 342C REFERENCE BULLETINS : DATE : YEAR MONTH DAY SERVICE SERVICE WARR…
  • TJ19245.1.10-201 Mar 18, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    VOLVO CARS SERVICE AND PARTS BUSINESS Technical Journal TITLE : Vehicle type and platform identification REF NO : ISSUING DEPARTMENT : CAR MARKET : United States and Canada TJ 19245 Technical Service PARTNER : ISSUE DATE : 3 US 7510 Volvo Cars North America…
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.