The Drawbacks of the 2016 to 2019 Volvo XC90: A Comprehensive Analysis

Every vehicle model, especially those from reputable brands like Volvo, has its share of teething problems. The Volvo XC90 from 2016 to 2019, a popular Swedish SUV, has been through a period of minor issues in the early years. However, the new platform introduced in later models has received positive feedback and has resolved many of these problems. In this article, we will explore the drawbacks of the 2016 to 2019 Volvo XC90 models and discuss how they have evolved over time.

Initial Teething Problems (2016-2017)

The early models of the 2016 to 2017 Volvo XC90 faced a few notable issues that required their owners to visit the dealership for fixes. These issues included:

Sunroof Water Leaks: Water leaks around the sunroof could be a bother, particularly during rainy weather. Evap Emissions System Issues: Problems with the evap emissions system can lead to unpleasant odors and potential engine issues. Recall Balance Shaft Banshee Noise: Known for causing a specific irritating noise, the balance shaft recall addressed this issue. Brake Squeak: Squeaking brakes, especially noticeable in the early miles, may necessitate replacement of brake components. Front Crankshaft Seal Leaks: Crankshaft seal leaks can lead to oil loss and require immediate attention. Noisy Air Struts: Air struts, if not properly maintained, could produce noise that detracts from the vehicle's quiet performance. VVT Pulley Plug Leaks: Leaks in the VVT pulley plug could disrupt the engine timing and require professional fix. Recall Leak Lower Radiator Hose Coupler: A leaky lower radiator hose coupler could cause coolant loss and engine overheating. Supercharger Seal Air Leaks: Leaks in the supercharger seal can reduce engine performance and lifetime. Fuel Injector Issues: Problems with fuel injectors can affect fuel efficiency and power delivery. Front Oxygen Sensor Issues: Faulty oxygen sensors can lead to poor fuel efficiency and illuminate the check engine light. Some Oil Consumption: A small amount of oil consumption is common in new engines but should be monitored. Infotainment/Software Issues: Various software glitches could affect the user experience. Steering Wheel Module/Clock Spring Problems: Issues with the clock spring mechanism could affect the steering wheel's functionality.

These issues were mainly isolated and did not significantly impact the driving experience. They were also quickly addressed when noticed, with owners taking their vehicles to the dealership for necessary repairs.

Improvements in Later Models (2018-2019)

The later models of the 2016 to 2019 Volvo XC90 have seen significant improvements, particularly in addressing the issues mentioned above. The new platform launched in 2018 managed to rectify most of the teething problems. As a result, the newer models have generally been more reliable and durable. According to official figures, the average duration between repairs has increased, and many earlier models are now running beyond 100,000 miles with minimal fuss.

Key Areas of Improvement

Some of the key improvements and areas of focus for the 2018 to 2019 Volvo XC90 models include:

Ride and Handling: While the earlier models experienced a firm ride, the later models have both regular and air suspension models that offer smoother and more controlled driving. Braking Performance: The rear brakes in the early models wore out quickly after about 15,000 miles. This issue was partly addressed in the newer models with improved brake durability. Air Suspension Damping: Models equipped with air suspension have active damping, reducing wear and improving ride comfort. Engine Durability: The gas engines are built to a standard typically found in diesel engines, making them robust and capable of handling abuse without significant issues. Carbon Build-Up: Direct injection engines in Volvo models, including the XC90, have been less prone to carbon build-up compared to some other makes.

Safety Record: A Note on Driver and Passenger Safety

One aspect where the Volvo XC90 shines is in terms of driver and passenger safety. According to official figures from the UK, no driver or passenger fatalities have been recorded in Volvo XC90s since records began in 2004. While this record is likely due to the generally cautious driving habits of Volvo owners, it is still an impressive statistic that adds to the appeal of this vehicle.

In conclusion, the 2016 to 2019 Volvo XC90 faced some initial teething problems, but these issues have largely been resolved in later models. The newer platforms have proven to be more durable and reliable, with many vehicles successfully running past 100,000 miles. The improvements in ride and handling, as well as the impressive safety record, make the Volvo XC90 a compelling option for those in the market for a reliable and safe SUV.