2021 Volvo S90
Vehicle Introduction
The 2021 Volvo S90 is a midsize luxury sedan that offers a refined driving experience and advanced safety features. It is available with three powertrain options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four (T5), a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged inline-four (T6), and a 400-horsepower plug-in hybrid (T8). The T5 delivers 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the T6 produces 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T8 combines a 303-horsepower engine with an 87-horsepower electric motor for a total system output of 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque. All powertrains are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The S90 is known for its comfortable and spacious interior, intuitive infotainment system, and strong safety ratings. However, it has also received some complaints regarding certain issues.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-Four (T5)
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the intake manifold gasket can lead to vacuum leaks, reduced engine power, and poor fuel economy.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
- Timing Belt Tensioner Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The timing belt tensioner may fail or become loose, potentially causing the timing belt to jump or break, resulting in catastrophic engine damage.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing belt tensioner and associated components (may include the timing belt and water pump).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
- Oil Filter Housing Leak
- Description/Symptoms: A faulty or damaged oil filter housing can lead to oil leaks, potentially resulting in low oil levels and engine damage.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing and gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400+
2.0L Turbocharged and Supercharged Inline-Four (T6)
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
- Description/Symptoms: See the T5 engine issue for details.
- Solution: See the T5 engine issue for details.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: See the T5 engine issue for details.
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Failure or malfunction of the turbocharger can significantly reduce engine power and acceleration, resulting in increased fuel consumption.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
- Coolant Hose Leak
- Description/Symptoms: A faulty or damaged coolant hose can leak coolant, leading to overheating and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected coolant hose.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
400-Horsepower Plug-In Hybrid (T8)
- Battery Pack Cooling System Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Issues with the battery pack cooling system can lead to overheating, reduced battery life, and diminished performance.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the battery pack cooling system components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
- Charging System Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Faults in the charging system can prevent the battery from charging properly, leading to reduced electric range and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the faulty charging system components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
Transmission
Eight-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Transmission Slippage
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit slipping or hesitation during gear changes, resulting in rough shifts, reduced power transfer, and potential transmission damage.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the transmission components (e.g., clutches, solenoids, valve body).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Shift Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning shift solenoids can cause delayed or erratic gear changes, as well as transmission shudder or harsh engagement.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty shift solenoid(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: Vibrations or shuddering during acceleration can indicate a faulty torque converter.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
Suspension
- Strut Mount Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged strut mounts can cause excessive noise, vibration, and reduced handling performance.
- Solution: Replacement of the strut mount(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+ per strut mount
- Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the lower control arm bushings can lead to unstable handling, increased tire wear, and alignment issues.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected lower control arm bushing(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+ per bushing
Electrical
- Headlight Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Issues with the headlights may include flickering, dimming, or complete failure.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected headlight components (e.g., bulbs, ballast, wiring).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ per headlight
- Infotainment System Freezing
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or exhibit other glitches.
- Solution: Software updates, hardware replacement, or resetting the system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Keyless Entry Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The keyless entry system may fail to unlock or lock the doors, or the remote key fob may have reduced range.
- Solution: Replacement or repair of the keyless entry components (e.g., antennas, sensors, module).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
Exterior
- Sunroof Leak
- Description/Symptoms: A faulty sunroof seal or drain tube can allow water to leak into the vehicle’s interior, causing damage to upholstery and electronics.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof seal or drain tube.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Interior
- Climate Control Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Issues with the climate control system may include insufficient heating or cooling, strange noises, or irregular airflow.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the faulty climate control components (e.g., blower motor, compressor, actuator).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Seat Recline Mechanism Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The seat recline mechanism may become stiff or fail to adjust properly.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat recline mechanism.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Rearview Mirror Vibration
- Description/Symptoms: The rearview mirror may vibrate excessively, especially at higher speeds.
- Solution: Replacement of the rearview mirror assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
Summary
The 2021 Volvo S90 is generally a reliable vehicle, but it has experienced certain issues, including engine gasket failures, turbocharger problems, transmission slippage, and various electrical and interior malfunctions. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially serious problems that could require costly repairs. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help minimize the impact and ensure the S90 remains a pleasurable driving experience.