The 2018 Volvo S90 has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 12 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Volvo S90. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (3), Latches Locks Linkages (1), Tires (1).
S90 reliability snapshot
67/100
Latest model-year reliability score
2.5/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$976
Avg annual repair cost
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Volvo S90 before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Electrical System3
Latches Locks Linkages1
Tires1
Seats1
Service Brakes, Hydraulic1
Vehicle Speed Control1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2018 Volvo S90
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Inspect brake rotors for wear and vibration during braking
☐Test rear door locks for proper operation from both inside and outside
☐Verify fuel door opens and closes properly with remote
☐Check for any warning lights related to the Vehicle Connectivity Module (VCM)
☐Listen for any screeching noises when braking at low speeds
What owners reported
2018 Volvo S90 owner complaints in detail
Owner complaints3
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Owners of the 2018 Volvo S90 frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the fuel door lock solenoid and rear door lock actuators. Complaints describe the fuel door failing to open, even with attempts to unlock it using the remote, which can leave drivers stranded without access to refuel. Another common issue involves the rear door not opening from either side, which owners note as a safety concern in emergencies. Additionally, the Vehicle Connectivity Module (VCM) may malfunction, impacting telematics and driver support systems, typically around 75,000 miles. These issues may pose safety risks, particularly the inability to quickly exit the vehicle through the rear door.
Owner complaints2
SERVICE BRAKES
Owners of the 2018 Volvo S90 report issues with the service brakes, highlighting two main failure patterns. One common issue involves the steering wheel shaking violently when the brake pedal is depressed, with this problem recurring approximately every 8,000-10,000 miles and requiring multiple rotor replacements. Another complaint describes a loud screeching noise when braking at low speeds, with the issue persisting despite four repair attempts by the dealership. The mileage at which these issues occur varies, with one owner noting problems at around 10,100 miles. Safety concerns are noted, particularly regarding the unknown nature of the screeching noise and its potential implications for driving with children.
2018 S90 recalls (2)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2018 S90. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
SEATSNHTSA 19V220000Mar 20, 2019
Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2018-2019 XC60 and S90 vehicles. The driver and passenger front seat rail rear flange nuts may not have been installed during assembly.
Consequence: If the nuts are missing, in the event of a crash, the front seat structure and position may be affected, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seat rails for missing flange nuts, installing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R19931.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 18V800000Nov 13, 2018
Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Volvo XC90, S90, V60, V60 Cross Country, V90, XC40, XC60, and V90 Cross Country vehicles. The software installed in the Vehicle Connectivity Module (VCM) may have an error causing the Telematics and Driver Support Systems to function improperly. As a result, the GPS will not provide location information to emergency personnel in the event of an emergency.
Consequence: If the GPS location is not provided to emergency personnel it can inhibit emergency response in the event of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will correct the software, free of charge. The recall began December 26, 2018. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R39917.
2018 Volvo S90 on the road
9,892 2018 Volvo S90 units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2018 Volvo S90 stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
The 2018 Volvo S90 presents a moderate reliability profile, aligning closely with the segment average. With a score of 67/100, it does not stand out in either direction. The distribution of complaints is broad, covering various systems such as electrical, brakes, and latches, suggesting no single area of significant weakness.
The recall count is limited, indicating a controlled approach to addressing identified issues. The second year of this generation typically benefits from early production adjustments, yet the data reflects only modest improvements in reliability.
Overall, the 2018 Volvo S90 represents a moderate risk level for buyers, with reliability neither distinctly above nor below its peers.
What you get in a 2018 Volvo S90 report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2018 Volvo S90 now
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2018 Volvo S90 — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2018 Volvo S90 reliable?
The 2018 Volvo S90 presents a moderate reliability profile, aligning closely with the segment average. With a score of 67/100, it does not stand out in either direction. The distribution of complaints is broad, covering various systems such as electrical, brakes, and latches, suggesting no single area of significant weakness.
How many recalls does the 2018 Volvo S90 have?
2 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2018 Volvo S90. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2018 Volvo S90 problems?
The most-reported 2018 Volvo S90 problem areas are: Electrical System (3), Latches Locks Linkages (1), Tires (1).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2018 Volvo S90?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2018 Volvo S90, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.