Volvo XC90 SUV

wotto

Purchased a 2006 XC90 2.5T AWD in sept. 2005, have 5000 miles on it and have had ZERO problems with it. Its also great in the snow,I take it out just to joy ride around when the weather is really stinko, I try to get it stuck and look for the worst conditions I can find,It has not let me down yet. I also find the 2.5T engine delivers all the power I can use. My previous cars were a 2001 BMW 740I and a 2003 Lexus 430 LS and to tell the truth I dont miss either of them, the Volvo meets and exceeds all my vehical requirements and is a delight to drive.

chomondely

My 2003 XC90 2.5t AWD has 124,000. I go places where my friends do not dare take their SUV. Tires are not a problem. Michelin LT. I got 80,000 on the first set. I replaced the brake pads and front rotors at 101,000. The rear pads were OK but I replaced them anyway. The most expensive trouble has been the radio. I had to replace the tuner and the head until for about $1,500. The kids would not let me use a boom box in the cargo area even though I used a remote. The plastic latch allowing the third row seat to fold down has been replaced twice. I now use a screwdriver to release the catch. Both rear wheel bearing had to be replaced around 60,000. No trouble since. I use Mobil 1 oil and change every 7,500. The engine uses less than a quart every 7,500 miles.
I have been very pleased with the XC90.

nelsoncm

Man, what a nice vehicle. The v8 is so much smoother than the 5 cyl., which I've also driven. I was almost sold, but....the back seat is so cramped! My 5 1/2 year old son with his booster seat was a really tight fit -- even he commented on how squished he felt in the back. (The built in booster wasn't the right height for him yet.) Granted, when he's out of the car seat, it might be more comfy, but I sat in the back and I don't know how you'd get three people in that seat, unless they were all uber-skinny supermodel types -- and I'm a petite 5ft. 2". The space alloted per person is just flat out stingy! I'm bummin' because otherwise, it's the nicest riding suv I've ridden yet, and I've checked out a bunch.
P.S. However, for anyone in So Cal looking for a deal, Orange County Volvo was offering $8000 off the price for remaining 2005 v8's, and it seems like a nice dealership. Great kids room to keep Jr. entertained.

bigeddy

Congratulations, that's the most mileage I've heard of for an XC90. Terrific longevity on the brakes and tires, too. Mostly highway miles, I take it? The Michelin LTX M/S tires are an odd choice, though, as they do not come in the XC90's size and the closest size, 245/65 SR17, is below the XC90's tire pressure and speed ratings; guess you got away with it, though.

mark156

Chomondely, those are the most optimistic numbers I've heard on Tires and Pads... kudos to you!!!! If you bought your XC90 in January of '03, that's over 41,333 miles a year! You are doing some serious driving! :surprise:

Mark

jccai1

The XC90 is a very good and safe vehicle, but like any other car, it's not perfect. It's quite heavy, so it will probably go through tires and brakes faster than a sedan. I have 12k miles on my 05, and I don't expect the tires to last much past 20k. I feel the 2.5T engine is too weak to haul around this much mass. And it's quite loud. They should have put the high pressure S60 T5 engine in this car. The gas mileage is not super (I average 16mpg in the city and 22mpg when doing all freeway driving). Mine has the 18gal tank which is way too small. It has a smooth highway ride, but the suspension tends to crash over bumps/pot holes on surface streets.

Having said all that, I'm still glad to have chosen the XC90 over the MDX. I think it is better looking and safer, handles better and has better brakes. Plus, unlike the MDX/Pilot, you won't see one every time you turn a corner.

volvomax

The T5 engine would be worse as it has little torque or horsepower below 3000 rpm.
Wait until next year, the new 235hp I6 replaces the 5 cyl!

cmnott

Is that for the 2007 Model? I am in the market for an XC90 or an LR3 and the 2.5T is not to my liking but a 235bhp I6 definitely would. Would this be out by summer 2006?

volvomax

Fall 2006 or later is more likely at this point.

guyf

The 2nd row slides front to back. Could it be the second row was moved all the way to the front?

manvo

I respectfully disagree. I've ~35k very happy miles on my 04 T2.5 AWD, driving mostly in NJ & Eastern PA (read hilly) as a normal guy (that is, not much red-light racing etc). I've had no problem at all passing other vehicles in normal traffic flow, highway or 50mph local or 25mph local, and the rpm seldom goes above 3000. If I do a little red-light racing, it would go to 3500 for a few seconds. As a "Jersey driver", I am not going slow or anything (Even if I want to, it's hard to do that in "Jersey traffic").

That said, I don't think this is a racing car, and I am not using it as a racing car either. It is quite adequate. Of course, when it comes to hp for a guy, the more, the better, even if you don't really need it that much :-)

manvo

My 04 2.5T AWD needs new tires (~35K miles) now (Ouch) and I was reading the tire discussion a while ago. Not decided yet as what to use. Will follow advise posted here.

My brakes were OK at 30k service. Don't know when I need to have those changed. Maybe @37500m? Ouch.

bigeddy

Tire and brake wear for this heavy car depends on your driving conditions and maintenance habits. 35K is not too bad for the Michelin tires and is about what I'm getting. You can buy tires that last longer by sacrificing some performance. My brakes will last at least 70K, maybe longer; they should have told you the wear at the 30K inspection.

i006129

Picked it up on Christmas Eve in Atlanta and have since driven to NJ for a family visit. So far have 1,250 miles on the car and we love it. Have been averaging 21 mpg on the highway. Seems like around 15-16 mpg local. I was worried that the small engine would not perform well, but we've been happy with the low end torque. Pickup at higher speeds is very average but suits our needs fine. The seats are wonderful and saved my back from the usual pain involved with 12 hours of driving. The ride is comfortable and our boys like the flexibility of the seats. We were able to fit all the luggage by folding one of the rear seats into the floor. The driving position is perfect with a great view of the road and all that is going on the road ahead. So, bottom line, our initial review is very positive. I'll post again once we get back to ATL.
Happy New Year!

10scoachrick

Did some searching and couldn't find a comparo--DW wants ride height(driver) more in line with our departed Tribute. How much taller could she sit(compared to our V70) in the XC70 and XC90? I could go to the dealer with a yardstick but hey, it's New Years Eve! Anybody got these numbers at hand? Thx.

bigeddy

I believe the XC70 seat height is 2.8" above the V70 and the XC90 is another 6.5". Of course, there is more to sight lines than height. Your wife really needs to sit in each car to see which one works best from the most comfortable seating position. Pay particular attention to rear visibility which can be a problem for some drivers in the tall & wide XC90.

xcninety

I have been going through all posts in regards to tire wear on the XC90 because at 24K miles my Pilots are shot. All the information I've read on this site in regards to the heavy wear this vehicle subjects its tire to has me leaning more towards grasping reality and accepting it is just par for the course. I would like to hear how your tires are doing at about 25K miles though.

10scoachrick

eddy, or may I call you 'big'? Thanks for the response. We are pretty good at that 'no rear visibility' thing since we have a C70 to go along with the V70. Of course, DW will have to be comfy with the seating position of any vehicle we pick. I was trying to get an idea on the XC70, in particular. We did the Tribute thing for over three years and my sensibilities really lean toward another wagon rather than the SUV...BUT, my darling makes frequent 400 mile trips with trucks passing @ 80 mph, etc, etc. Like so many other drivers, she would like to be able to see over, around, through the OTHER taller, wider vehicles on the road. The C and the V both sit a touch low compared to the ubiquitous 'larger vehicles' out there(nothing compared to our former Miata ride!).
Now, do I trade the '04 C70 on the next vehicle(in anticipation of the new model later in the year) OR do I trade the '02 V70 that is about to go out of warranty and let the new wagon/SUV become the Home Depot vehicle. Scary when the numbers are in the $40-50K range! Maybe I should just sit down until this 'new car urge' goes away!

jtla

xcninety,
I posted similar question on the "XC90 Problem and Solution" board 3 days ago. My 2005 2.5T AWD has only 12k miles and the Pirelli tires look needing replacements soon. I am not sure which is the right board to post this sort of question, but you may want to cross-check between the two boards. I have got a couple responses from other forum participants. One of them suggested that Volvo has a program to replace them free if less than 15k miles.

lev_berkovich

Wow,
Isn't it something, to check in after almost a year and find a response to your own posting from February 2005...

On a subject,
Our 2004 XC90 2,5T AWD with 18" Michelins does just great. Zero defects at 30K. We damaged and replaced one tire two weeks ago, but three others have probably another 10K to go.

However, I am waiting for them to wear out and will replace them, most likely with new Continentals. My internet research made me to conclude that both Michelin and Pirelli are "soft" Their threadwear rating is 300. There are 18" tires from Bridgestone and Continental that have the same index of 600 and 680 respectfully, and both are warranted for 65K miles. Also, according to the tirerack.com they have the higher ratings for the wet and snow handling. The only caveat is they come in size 255/55 - 18, which is so called Plus Zero size, compare to OEM. But their diameter is just 0.2% different from OEM, which is completely negligent.

I went through 2 sets of Continentals on my S80 with 107K, and was generally pleased with the tires (could be better, but they are a lot of tire for a price). So, most likely, I will buy Continental CrossContact LX. They look very promising.

lovnthevolvo

Does anyone know anything about the "Xzilon" molecular Adhesion that the dealership offers at the table for about $400? I live in Georgia and just purchased the XC90 and was told we get a lot of acid rain in our area? Any opinions?

guyf

This is not necessary. Don't take it.

guyf

Welcome back! It's been a while. I was worried about you! Thanks for the tip on the tires. At 44K Kilometers, my 17" Michelins are shot! I may go with the Nokian WR's however.

lev_berkovich

Thank you.
I was thinking about Nokian, reading this board. However, living in CA and making just occasional trips (5-6 times a year) to the ski resort, I do not want to commit to the tires with the winter bias.
Plus, those Conties are listed for $127 at tirerack.com, while I cannot find Nokian WR for anything less than $219.

volvomax

Its mop and glo, its not worth it.
Just wax your car.

bigeddy

The cost is scary! So is going out of warranty. :surprise: The XC90 is designed as a family hauler so it would not be my first choice as a long-distance commuter car but it certainly is comfortable for trips. We use ours for everything since it is our only car. BTW, what state allows trucks to go 80 mph? Only 11 states have maximum truck speeds as high as 75 mph on Interstates, most are much lower.

islander71

I am glad to see you posting once again. Our 18" Pilots on our 04 2.5 AWD have almost 21k on them. I am hoping to get another 10k. I am on my second set of Conti's on my BMW and have been pleased with them.

beaster4

I have a 2005 XC90 V8 with approx 17K, the Michelin MX4's are starting to show some wear and I would like some input on alternative tires, since it looks like I might get another 5-7K at most from them. I have been looking at 3 Michelin models. 4x4XPC, SYNCHRONE and DIAMARIS; all in the 255/55R18 size. The DIAMARIS is the least appealing because of its weakness on ice (live in NC). Appreciate any thoughts on these or others.

lev_berkovich

My short list is:
Continental CrossContact LX (best know price of $127)
Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza ($150)
Nokian WR SUV ($219)

where Continental is supposedly the most durable and least expensive; and Nokian been the best on a snow and ice, but the most expensive and less durable (meaning shorter thread life)

jediknight

looking to buy a used 2005 used FWD XC90.
great price but wanted to see what people's thoughts and real life experiences have been regarding the two options.

no snow here but we get our share of rain.
this used car also has a 'traction mode' - i think - that's supposed to help the grip of the tires.
anyone else have that and able to comment on that?

bigeddy

You are probably referring to Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) which is standard on the XC90. Volvo's description: "DSTC is a sophisticated stabilization system which, in addition to the STC functions, intervenes and corrects any tendency to skid. A number of sensors monitor the rotational speed of all four wheels, the driver's steering wheel input -- e.g. the steering angle -- and the course of the car. The DSTC control unit processes these signals and, if any deviation from the norm is detected, such as the start of a rear-wheel skid, the system intervenes and gently activates the brakes to the appropriate wheel to put the car back on course again. It also reduces engine power if necessary. DSTC makes a decisive contribution to driving safety, especially on slippery surfaces."

A dash light comes on when it activates which I have done several times. Sometimes I can feel the wheel slip and then grab, and the car straighten out. The Traction Control part of the system also helps in everyday driving such as pulling away from a slippery stop. It reduces wheel spin by transferring power from the drive wheel that begins to lose traction to the opposite wheel.

As for AWD versus FWD, I'm an AWD fan and like its added traction in tricky situations but I live in a mostly rural snow zone. Do you have problems now with whatever you are driving? If so, the AWD may help. If not, you are probably fine with FWD. Note that Volvo's AWD is normally 95% FWD and only transfers power to the rear (up to 50%) as needed.

badsaab

I really liked the way the v8 drove- great engine. Is the fuel economy going to be that much worse than the t5- the epa est. only have a 2 mpg. difference. Any real world experience?

Also, anyone have the rear ent. system? How is it? What about after mkt. w? dual monitors un the head rest?

Any word on sat. radio for the xc90?

bikefunz

I understand the V8 is comparable in mpg as the T5. I have a 2005 T5, 268 hp twin turbo which gets around 16-17 city/21-22 highway. I think the V8 has similar stats. I have the rear entertainment center w/ the monitors in the headrest; it works perfectly and the kids love it. One small issue is the wireless headphones don't have a lot volume to them, so if the kids are watching a movie in the backseat, I have to turn the stereo down a bit or crank the fader to the front. But it's not a big deal.

badsaab

Thanks for your help. I found a really good deal on a left over v8 but no RES, so I was considering an aftermarket system- rear headrest monitors, but broadcasts over fm. It might be worth it.

Did you consider the MDX or anyother cars- what was the deciding factor for you?

xcninety

My '04 T-6 XC90 just hit 24K mi and the Michelin Pilots are shot. I've been reviewing several sites and discussion boards to find the best replacement while avoiding the OE tires because of their bad reviews and personal experience. I just picked up a set of the Bridgestone Deuler HL Alenza 109H XL in a 255/55R18 from Tire Rack and found all my initial concerns of road noise and traction were quickly put to rest. These tires seem to be a great alternative and they have a 60K tread wear warranty to boot. The wider tire should protect the rims a little better too.

bandemommy

Hi, we just found out we are expecting our 3rd child and I am curious as to how many children you have in your XC90 on a daily basis. I know we can use the 3rd row for longer trips and keep one side down for storage, but will I be able to fit 2 kids in boosters and an infant seat in the middle row and not be tearing my hair out trying to get them all buckled??

Thanks for your help, I know the perfect solution is a minivan, but we really need an SUV, but I don't think I can go bigger than the Volvo (no Tahoe or Suburban for this Mommy)

badsaab

We are just about to buy a volvo. I like it a lot, but I also liked the Acura MDX a lot. I had a tought time deciding, but a friend of mine with 3 kids, all in car seats of various degrees, went with the Acura because you can get 3 across the second row, something you would be hard pressed to do in the Volvo. The MDX is about 4 inches wider and right now there are some very good deals on the '06.

cv2006

For those of you interested, the iPod adapter kit will be available late February.

I can't wait until it's installed, I'll finally have everything I wanted on my XC90!

rcf8000

The next thing they need to add is satellite radio.

bandemommy

Thanks for the quick response, I will likely go check out the Volvo with the seats and see if I can make it work. I am thinking that the infant can go on the drivers side, my daughter in the integrated booster in the middle and my son in his booster on the passenger side. I like the Acura as well, but the closet dealer is 1 hour away, and even with a loaner, service will be more difficult. The Volvo dealership is fantastic and only 5 minutes from our home.

The one think I really dislike about the MDX/Pilot is the way that the middle seatbelt comes from the ceiling, I much prefer the Volvo built into the seat.

Thanks again, I will have to go try it out.

sdemander

I have an '04 XC90 T6 that is about to hit 50K miles. I took it to an independent mechanic for the once over and he found several major items that need fixing: excess oil in one of turbo hoses, valve cover gasket leaking, transfer case has leak, power steering pump leaking out front seal. I took my vehicle to Volvo dealer to have these and other things addressed this morning, but I am now freaking about whether this car is going to be an expensive headache after the warranty is up. Did anyone purchase the extended warranty from Volvo or anyone else, and has anyone an opinion about the plans offered out there? Thanks so much! :confuse:

badsaab

You are not kidding on the Sat. radio, that was one thing that kept the Acura in the mix for so long. We are going with the Volvo, and I'm sure it is going to get Sat. by the end of the year, but at 39,500 for the 05 V8 (new-leftover) I cannot pass it up.

The Ipod adapter is encouraging, but I really like some of the xm channels.

nelsoncm

This was my issue with the Volvo. I only have one kid and I had a heck of a time, fastening his car seat. The width per person is really stingy. I'm also short and actually had to come around from the other side to fasten the darn thing. Personally, I'd go Acura (or Honda Pilot) for the room, even with the wierd seatbelt thingy. Also, there's tons of storage and cubbies in the Pilot. With 3 kidlets, you're gonna need that! Good luck.

burosky

Just my .02 cents. I've always thought of extended warranties or any warranty that you have to purchase as a rip off. If included in the purchase, it always makes me wonder why the extended warranty almost always expires just before you start having repair problems. If you have to purchase, you really have to be very careful to read and understand what exactly it covers so you know what you are buying. Since I am not one of those who are fond of reading the fine print, I've always taken the approach to just save the money I was going to pay for the warranty into a "car repair" account and dip into it when repairs are needed. I find that more financially suitable for me. Again, just my .02 cents. This may not work for some people.

wmquan

The one think I really dislike about the MDX/Pilot is the way that the middle seatbelt comes from the ceiling, I much prefer the Volvo built into the seat.

I don't think the middle seatbelt is a deal-breaker. Though having a dealership over an hour away and not as good as your Volvo dealership could be (having a good dealership is essential, especially with a Volvo).

I'm pretty obsessive with my 2 kids' child restraints, and I too was initially worried about the MDX's middle seatbelt. But it seems to be one of those things that once you own it and drive it every day, it's a non-issue. Fears that it would block the sightline in the rearview mirror don't pan out. It's a very, very tiny fraction of what one sees in the rearview mirror, and I barely notice it, if I notice it at all.

I haven't had problems securing a car seat into the middle seat position of the MDX, though I've not had to do it since we put in a second child restraint (first child started off always in the middle, but with the second, we now use the two outboard positions).

Good luck.

jvikas66

bandemommy,

We have three kids in our XC90 everyday and have had no trouble. Our kids are 6,4 and 2 years old, so we have two in boosters in the outboard seats and the youngest in a Britax Roundabout in the middle. There is more than enough room.

Hope this helps.

volvomax

What I don't like about the MDX seatbelt is the fact that it is in the roof.
In a rollover accident, that belt could be rendered less effective if the roof collapses.

bandemommy

Thanks for the responses! I really like the Volvo for lots of reasons, safety, styling and the closest dealer. The Volvo dealer will let me drive an XC90 for the day, so I can really gauge how convenient or inconvenient it will be. I will borrow a friends Pilot to test that as well. I appreciate everyone's input.

Thanks!

tscordino

I have been having problems with my speaker falling off on the passenger side. I am taking it in for the 2nd time tomarrow morning. They said they have not had any problems with this. If you have received any other comments about this please forward them to me so I can confront the dealership about this.

soxfan

cv - is this the fm transmitter ipod adapter they've already announced for the xc90, or is this a hard-wired version? where did you get the news? thanks - a hard wired option would be great.