Volvo XC90 SUV

beeval

It turns out that a plastic piece used during assembly of the car fell down into braking mechanism. It was pushing just hard enough to drag on the brakes but not put them on completely. Hence the squealing and very bad smell. No permanent damage, and I get to enjoy my new SUV this weekend.

BTW, love the Deliverance reference!

volvomax

New Volvos are sprayed with a rust inhibitor for the ocean voyage.
Sometimes this coating gets on the exhaust and burns off, giving off smoke and an odor.

On your brakes, there is a plastic shield for the rotors that is removed when the vehicle reaches the dealer. A piece of this shield probably got caught on the rotor.
Would explain your symptons

beeval

Sadly, after having my car in service at the dealership all day yesterday and being told the brake problem was fixed, it is worse today after driving it around town. Looks like I have the same problem rhinoman2 had. Car is vibrating at high speeds, squealing horribly at slow speeds, and giving off a nasty burning brake smell coming from the back wheels. Service is closed on weekends, so it will sit in my driveway until Monday. =(

bennyv

We just got our T6. Has anyone noticed a swoosh and squeak noise when you release the gas pedal? It happens often and is quite annoying. Apparently, Volvo and the dealers know about it and feel it is normal!

mkubes

I've had my T6 for about three weeks and just yesterday my daughter rolled down the window (finally a nice day), well I thought a helicopter was landing on the roof! The car shook with a loud thump, thump vibrating sound. It was terrible. I immediately made her roll her window up. We all felt like our ear drums were going to explode. So, I opened the sunroof all the way and.. Same thing! My husband took it into the dealer today and he said that's just the way it is and that they hadn't had any complaints about it. My husband and I find this totally unacceptable for a $46,000 car.

I couldn't find any other messages about this problem. Has anyone else experienced this? Please respond with any solutions. I love the car but I don't think I can live with this.

jeffmust2

...happens in lots of SUV-like vehicles. Our RX300 has the same situation.

All you need to do is crack open some of the other windows and/or moonroof so you don't have lots of positive airflow coming in thru a single opening with no place for it to exit the vehicle.

And - your dealer is correct; there's nothing he or anyone else can do about it.

ohiosuv

I have the same thumping noise on my wife's MDX. I do not have the same problem on my Explorer however. I have been testing for this when I test drive new SUV's and have found that most make this noise. I like to roll down the rear windows, not the front, and found that in the Volvo I also had to roll down one of the front windows by a couple inches to stop the noise.

rollie

As others have said, if the noise comes from the windows then roll it down further or roll down one on the opposite side of the car.

If the noise is from the roof it's easier to deal with. Volvo has two-stage auto opening roofs (at least they do on their sedans and I assume on the XC90?). If you hit the switch for an instant the roof only opens about 80% of the way. This is the comfort setting and usually eliminate or minimizes the helicopter effect. If you open the roof completely you will get the helicopter effect at certain intermediate speeds (it's typically a range and if you are below or above it goes away).

This problem is common to MANY SUVs and sedans.

Good luck.

-rollie
rdollie@att.net

dachshund2

Went yesterday for the courtesy 60-Day Service a little late since delivery was 12/31 (102 days and 2,094 miles). I know the computer upgrades have been mentioned previously, actually 3(upgrade DDM/PDM, upgrade ICM, upgrade DEM), but they also replaced the wiper blades and was told these had a better design. What was wrong with the old ones? Also after service the auto up/down feature on the front windows no longer worked. I don't know if this is a coincidence or a software glitch. I'm supposed to go back in a week to get a door panel replaced and a seat repaired due to the seat belt issue I've mentioned previously. They haven't come up with a permanent fix, but my chidren are checking the belt position before the door is closed and they've agreed to make the repairs. Hope we don't have to do it again, but anyway we will have them check the auto up/down feature at this time.

Also a note to beeval. Hope they will find a simple solution to your problem so you can enjoy your vehicle. Keep us informed on the results.
Makes me think of the parking brake repair(What was the actual repair a weaker spring at the pedal or a complete revamping of the system?) or possibly an erroneous signal from the Dynamic Stability Traction Control (DSTC). 4 beers makes me an expert mechanic and diagnostician. Anyway good luck and keep us posted.

spurs61

I have the same problem with my Explorer. I don't think it's unique to the XC90. It is less noticable when a front window is rolled down a bit too. When I get my XC90 in a few weeks I'll check it out for the same phenomenon.

stever

tidester Jan 4, 2003 1:19am

Steve, Host

gmark2000

I took my T6 in for emergency diagnostic last Thursday because of a leaky roof in the rear load compartment. Turns out I have a faulty hatch edge seal that has to be replaced (back-ordered). I had radio problems that couldn't be fixed (cutting out/powering off intermittently). I will have to go back once the parts come in.

kaitsu

Our Volvo wagon makes the same thumping noise when only back windows are open. Disappears if you open a front window...

i_yellow

I've noticed the sunroof "thumping" noise intermittently as well. It seems to occur at specific ranges of speed. I've tried changing the amount the sunroof is open with only partial success. It seems changing speed usually takes care of it, however I'm going to try cracking the windows as suggested here. My 1998 S70 has a built-in plastic deflector that pops-up along the leading edge when the sunroof is open. I don't think the S70 has the "thumping" issue at all. None of the new Volvos seems to have this feature.

I had my 60-day inspection last week (about 40 days late) and the software upgrades also disabled my one-touch down function for the front windows. I think this is a case of fixing one bug anly to introduce new bugs as a result of the fix software! I told the service department about it this morning and they suggested holding down the button until the window is fully open plus about five seconds and then the same for closing the window again. This is supposed to reset the auto up/down function, but they said it might not work, in which case they'll have to hook it up to the computer to fix the problem. I'll probably just bring it in next time I need a free car wash.

sharon

I have experienced the thumping periodically. Every car I've had with a sunroof has done the same thing. The thumping was much worse in my ML320.

I have heard of people having problems after the software upgrade, but I didn't have any difficulty. My car (picked up 12/31) only needed 2 of the 3 software updates. The updates are based on a range of vin numbers. I wonder if it's possible some service departments aren't paying attention and giving "updates" to cars that don't need them. Hmmm.

The only issue I have had with my car is a knocking sound coming from the right rear end, only on warm days. As soon as the temp drops, you don't hear the sound anymore. I finally had the knocking happen on a day when I had time to stop by the dealer. They said it is my right rear shock and have ordered a replacement.

Sharon

dachshund2

Thanks for the advice on the disabled auto up/down feature on power windows. Fixed it on the first try.

I also had a leak in the back that was dripping from the passenger side square access cover on the trim at the rear seal. On inspection I noticed that the gasket into the cargo compartment that surrounded the wiring harness was not completely seated. When it was repositioned the leak went away.

ohiosuv

Maybe it's me, but it seems like there are a higher than usual number of problems with the XC90 as I read these posts. I have not purchased anything yet, but I have my concerns with this vehicle.

sydwynd

I saw a message earlier about getting a 2004 XC90 in 2004. We ordered a 2004 in February this year and will take delivery in May. As far as we know, 2004's are available now. Thought those interested would like to know.

gmark2000

ohiosuv wrote: Maybe it's me, but it seems like there are a higher than usual number of problems with the XC90 as I read these posts. I have not purchased anything yet, but I have my concerns with this vehicle.

No need to put up the red flags. Despite my own problems and others mentioned here, this is probably a small microcosm of the 50,000+ XC90s shipped to North America.

We who post about our vehicles here (and over in Swedespeed, volvoxc and VVSpy) are PASSIONATE about their XC90s. Every fleck of dust on the dash might even concern us. We are the advocates and crusaders for the brand, and yet we the worse critics in the same vein. So take each and every comment with a grain of salt and a precious ounce of information.

dachshund2

Ditto and well put gmark2000

sbcooke

For those of you concerned about thumping, you should drive a BMW X5. The sunroof thumps a lot.

I think the initial problems on this board are a little disconcerting. I ended up with an MDX, but at the time shopped between the XC70 and the MDX (the XC90 didn't exist), the same type of poor quality control problems seemed evident when I was shopping. I realize this is a new vehicle and there obviously will have some growing pains, but the glitches and what not listed here seem very consistent with what seems to be a trend from Volvo since 1998.

rhinoman2

Update, My xc90 has been in service since April 1. They are still unsure of what they are going to do. I was told they were to here from Volvo on 4/15/03. I was also told if they have the car for 30 days straight, I can exercise the lemon law and return the car. Although there is no other car we want, It is very upsetting that the dealership has had my car more than I have. I am sorry so many other people are having trouble. I was hoping mine was an isolated case. Does anyone have any information about Volvo replacing the brake pads and other brake parts while they are doing the emergency brake repairs?

Thanks for your help!

avery1

You should look into the lemon laws. I don't think they only apply if the car is in the shop for 30 days straight. Each state is different but you should become informed.

ktjrmom

Looking for some thoughts. I've had my XC90 for 2.5 months. I took it in for the 60 check with the observation that the car was totally unpredictable when trying to pull out in traffic or start quickly from a start...sometimes moved quickly; sometimes lagged badly. (also lags from first to second)They downloaded all new software. It's better but still not smooth and predictable. Nothing like how my previous Lexus RX300 behaved. Also, I bought it primarily to pull a horse trailer and it really laggs trying to get up to speed. Any one else have these problems and any thoughts?

rhinoman2

The service manager told me about the lemon law. I asked him if i could return the car and that's what he said. I will check so I now for sure.

rhinoman2

You should check your emergency brake to make sure it is not sticking. Are your brakes squeaking and front end shaking?

xc90lover

I currently have a V70 right now which I've had for almost 5 years. My husband and I love the XC90 a lot, and we are looking to purchase a new vehicle in the coming months since I'm expecting my 3rd child in June. Right now, it's between the XC90, and the 2004 Sienna Van. Both my husband and I do not want to drive a van!!! I have been reading all the recent posts, and like OHIOSUV I have serious concerns. I'm wondering if most of the problems are with the 2003 XC90's. Is there anyone out there with 2004 XC90's that are not having problems. Also, my husband and I were wondering if the XC90's were being made here in the United States. Thanks!

crikey

my husband and I were wondering if the XC90's were being made here in the United States

Currently, XC90s are built in Sweden.

gmark2000

Gothenburg, Sweden to be precise.

rhinoman2

I received a call form Volvo service yesterday. They told me a Volvo Rep was at the dealership yesterday measuring the brake cable and was going to have an answer from Volvo today. Am I a sucker to believe they have a field rep going around to dealerships measuring defective parts and systems. Does Volvo not have a CAD system with all the design and parts on file. And don't they have a factory with hundreds of cars and parts around that they can see what they are doing and building. This is starting to get a little crazy.
XC90 Lover: We have a Sienna Van and love it it has never been in for anything but regular service. If we give up on the xc90 which we probably won't we would consider a new Sienna and an used Audi TT convertible

xc90lover

Thanks! I will continue to read your posts, and see what the final outcome is on your xc90. Your not in the Atlanta market are you??? Good luck!

jjnewvolvofan

I DROPPED MY AUTO YESTERDAY FOR THE 60 DAY CHECKUP and was told it would be a couple of hours.I still have not been called to pick it up. I had to call them and was told that they found a problem with the headlamp washers. They were not working and were blowing fuses. They told me that the have a special tech there looking at it now, and that he can call Sweden if he needs to.I didnt use the washers much , but they worked before the 60 day checkup. I wonder if the new downloads screwed them up? Anyhow, I am a big, big fan of this auto,I just want it back, and not the little sporty sedan they lent me.

crikey

See XC90 IIHS Crash Test

gmark2000

My service loaner was another black sapphire XC90 T6, nice to drive someone else's for a change.

brews1

So was the X5, RX300, Explorer and M class.

beeval

gmark2000 - lucky you. My service loaner is a 2002 chevy malibu from Enterprise rentals. A poor substitute for my beautiful new XC90!

adp3

that's a funny map - like anyone needs the map in the top left that shows where Sweden is in relation to the rest of Europe

"it's over there? I thought it was down near Italy"

:-)

sorry to hear about the XC90 issues. Maybe the reason we are hearing about so many issues is because Volvo buyers are more likely than MDX buyers to visit message boards? (doubtful) It's probably just that Volvos have more issues than MDXs do. That's not a reason to buy an MDX, of course, but....

I bet there are at least a handful of you who heard the (erroneous) blurb on NPR news today about the Volvo being the IIHS pick, along with other vehicles including the Infinite (sic!!) Q45 (Q45 - I think). I heard them say "infinite" not "InfintI" twice today (9:00 and noon)

I guess you blame that on spell check, eh?

sharon

sorry to hear about the XC90 issues. Maybe the reason we are hearing about so many issues is because Volvo buyers are more likely than MDX buyers to visit message boards? (doubtful) It's probably just that Volvos have more issues than MDXs do. That's not a reason to buy an MDX, of course, but....

I seem to remember the Edmunds MDX board filled with people complaining about problems, after the MDX was introduced, same goes for the ML.

Since there are really only a handful of people posting in the XC90 forum, I'm not sure you can use this board to gauge the car's reliability.

Garry--when you discovered the leak in your car, it was after it was covered in 4 inches of ice, right? Do you think that exacerbated the problem? Just curious. I'll have to keep an eye on my door seal, but I've had the car out in several heavy rain storms and haven't had a problem.

Sharon, still a happy XC90 owner

gmark2000

sharon wrote: Garry--when you discovered the leak in your car, it was after it was covered in 4 inches of ice, right? Do you think that exacerbated the problem? Just curious. I'll have to keep an eye on my door seal, but I've had the car out in several heavy rain storms and haven't had a problem.

Sharon, still a happy XC90 owner

Yep, between here and the other forums it's hard to keep track of all the cross-posts. I had a huge 4inch thick slab of ice on top of my T6 that was slowly melting. Nevertheless, they found a faulty seal and it's getting replaced on Monday. No damage to the interior, but something to be wary of, just in case.

tidester

I heard the XC-90 did extremely well on the latest round of IIHS crash tests - anyone have details?

Thanks.

tidester, host

wmquan

The IIHS scores are indeed very good, best of any mid-sized SUV tested.

http://www.iihs.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/0305.htm

wmquan

Comparison of mid-sized SUV's:

http://www.iihs.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/summary_midsuv.htm

Volvo earns the scores in this one.

If you look at:

http://www.iihs.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/grey_midsuv.htm

The XC90 did great at intrusion measures, suggesting that a higher-speed crash would be handled better than the other vehicles. The only negative was a head-rebound off the A-pillar and roof rail. Dunno if a higher-speed impact would result in a head injury, hard to say if it's just a lab condition.

gmark2000

Nice to know that this is the SAFEST SUV you can buy!

sharon

Thanks Garry. It just reminded me of the problem some people around here have with their gutters. The gutters get covered with ice, then as the ice melts, the water backs into the house. Fun, Fun.

Hopefully you've seen the end of the wacky weather for this year!

Sharon

jp666

Looks like the XC 90 did well in crashes but the bumpers did not do well....Do you think they will tweak it in the next few months to make it better as I hope to order a T6 next month and anticipate a late summer delivery....

Also, it looks like the 2004 will have an option to have silver metal inserts available instead of wood...It looks good in the picture but have not seen it in person....Does anyone know if it looks as good in person as in the pictures ?

I called Volvo and they expect their web to reflect the 2004 prices / options in 2 weeks....

gmark2000

Found a source for XC90 Brush Bars and running bars, S.A.M. Steffansson Automotive AB in Sweden:


Part #95088409 Frontbar made in stainless steel. Diam 60mm. 2 or 3 aux. lights can be mounted 7680 SEK/USD$915.48


Part #95088408 Frontbar made in stainless steel. Diam 60mm. 6880 SEK/USD$820.16


Part #95088407 Frontbar made in stainless steel. Diam 60mm. 4390 SEK/USD$523.32


Part #95088410 Sidebars. Polished stainless steel. Dia 76mm. Available in mid-March 9590 SEK/USD$1,143.20

http://www.samsteffansson.se/samindex.html

I personally think that the running bars look really cool!!

rhinoman2

I received a call today from service and I can now pick my new car up again. The emergency brake linkage has been fixed. I am hoping everything is ok and I can drive and enjoy the xc90.

I will keep you posted!

luvcarz2much14

Hey everyone!
We are now debating between the Volvo, and our current minivan A 2003 chrysler Limited AWD. There are many ups and downs that we have found in the comparing between the two. Here are some that follow...
- The volvo can tow 5,000 lbs!
- The van can two about 3,500

-The van is bigger, and can haul more things inside
-The volvo is a tad smaller

- We would buy the T5 b/c of the price. Here in NY we only have one dealer and his price is about 40k for AWD T5
- The volvo T5 isnt to zippy as we would've liked.
- About the reliability, we have no idea. Anyone own one who has any pros and cons they could share with me. that would be great!
*otherwise it is a GREAT lookin vehicle, and i really would like to invest in one:o)

ambaer

jp666: I ordered my '04 with the alumiunum trim package - I am not a fan of the faux wood and the aluminum trim looks 100X better in my opinion. I have seen it in person (at the Alameda Drive event, all the cars had the aluminum trim on the Euro models) and it looks very sharp. My understanding is that this option is available at no cost (per Volvomax). I should be receiving my car May 1st (very exicted!).

ernest0t

I like the looks of the rounded frontbar, which may help protect the XC90's fragile bumper. I wonder if you can get it without the lights? Do they have anything for the rear?