The 2019 Volvo XC90 has good reliability. There are 6 recalls and 31 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Volvo XC90. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints and 3 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (7), Electrical System (7), Engine (4).
XC90 reliability snapshot
71/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.5/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$851
Avg annual repair cost vs $807 category avg
#8/14
Ranking in luxury midsize SUVs · better than 43% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Volvo XC90 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.
Unknown Or Other7
Electrical System7
Engine4
Service Brakes3
Power Train2
Service Brakes, Hydraulic2
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2019 Volvo XC90
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Inspect AC system for leaks and test cooling effectiveness
☐Check brake pedal feel and inspect for brake booster issues
☐Test all electrical functions, especially sunroof and door locks
☐Verify engine performance and check for excessive oil consumption
☐Ensure all safety features and sensors are operational
☐Inspect chrome trim for peeling and sharp edges
☐Check for any signs of water damage, especially near sunroof and electrical components
What owners reported
2019 Volvo XC90 owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 2 crashes, 3 fires and 8 injuries to NHTSA for the 2019 Volvo XC90. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints7
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners report frequent failures of the air conditioning system in the 2019 Volvo XC90, particularly involving leaks in the evaporator coils. Typical symptoms include refrigerant smells entering the cabin, loss of cooling capability, and inability to defrost windows, with issues emerging as early as 27,000 miles. Multiple owners describe significant repair costs for these failures, often exceeding several thousand dollars. Additionally, there are reports of chrome trim peeling inside the vehicle, leading to sharp edges that have caused injuries. These issues may pose safety concerns, especially during high temperatures or when sharp edges are exposed.
Owners of the 2019 Volvo XC90 frequently report issues with the electrical system, notably involving water leaks from the sunroof drainage that affect electrical components, including the airbag system and sunroof controls. Complaints also describe problems with the vehicle's key recognition system, leading to the vehicle not starting and stranding owners, often occurring within the first few months of ownership or at low mileage. Additionally, some owners experience stalling issues and malfunctioning rear door motors, particularly in cold weather conditions. These electrical problems potentially compromise vehicle safety by affecting critical systems like airbags and vehicle operation.
Owner complaints5
SERVICE BRAKES
Owners of the 2019 Volvo XC90 report issues primarily related to brake booster and brake master cylinder failures, often without prior warning or illuminated warning lights. Complaints frequently mention complete brake failure, with one report indicating this led to an injury incident. The failures typically occur around 25,000 to 49,800 miles. Additionally, some owners describe repeated issues with warped front rotors leading to steering shake during braking. These complaints highlight significant safety implications, including potential loss of vehicle control and increased risk of accidents.
Owners report several engine-related issues with the 2019 Volvo XC90. A notable concern involves engine misfires linked to valve ring sealing problems, leading to oil entering the piston chamber and excessive oil consumption, typically occurring around 89,000 to 95,000 miles. Another issue involves a starter failure at approximately 66,000 miles, attributed to a manufacturing defect involving a stripped nut/stud. Safety implications are significant, as complaints include one incident of engine fire and another involving a crash, both associated with the aforementioned engine problems. These reports suggest potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers, particularly in vehicles approaching or exceeding these mileage thresholds.
Owners of the 2019 Volvo XC90 report serious power train issues, including incidents of unintended acceleration and fire. One complaint describes a situation where the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated while parked, resulting in a crash and airbag deployment, causing injuries to two individuals. Another owner reports a reduced power train mode warning followed by smoke and flames originating from the engine, leading to a vehicle fire. These incidents occur at approximately 50,000 miles, highlighting potential safety risks such as crashes and fires that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2019 XC90. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
SEAT BELTSNHTSA 23V827000Dec 7, 2023
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2015-2024 XC90 vehicles. The second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly.
Consequence: An improperly tightened seat belt buckle may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing their risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and tighten the second-row seat belt buckle anchorage bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10259.
STEERINGNHTSA 23V001000Jan 5, 2023
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2019-2022 V60CC, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. During steering gear assembly, double screws may have been assembled on top of each other, which can cause a screw to fall into the gearbox housing.
Consequence: A screw inside the gearbox housing can cause the steering wheel to lock up and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the steering gear, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 1, 2023. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10213.
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2019-2020 V90, XC60, S60, V60, V60CC, S90, V90CC, S90L, and XC90 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump can blow a fuse and fail.
Consequence: Failure of the low-pressure fuel pump can cause a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 2, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10100.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 21V273000Apr 21, 2021
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2016-2020 XC90 Excellence vehicles. Liquid or condensation on the rear seat control display may cause the front passenger seat to move back as far as possible.
Consequence: The rear passenger may become trapped by the front seat without the ability to cancel the seat's movement, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Volvo Car will notify owners, and dealers will update the rear seat control display software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 14, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10093.
Volvo Cars USA LLC (Volvo Cars) is recalling certain 2019-2020 S60, V60, V60 Cross Country, S90L, V90, V90 Cross Country, XC40, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. Due to a software/hardware incompatibility, the Automatic Emergency Brake (AEB) system may not detect obstacles and engage as intended.
Consequence: If the automatic emergency braking system does not engage as intended, it can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will update the Active Safety Domain Master (ASDM) software, free of charge. The recall began April 9, 2020. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R29998.
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.
2019 Volvo XC90 on the road
35,760 2019 Volvo XC90 units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2019 Volvo XC90 stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
The 2019 Volvo XC90 scores slightly above its segment average, indicating moderate reliability. The vehicle's reliability is mixed, with complaints spread across several areas. Electrical system and service brake issues are among the most reported, suggesting potential concerns in these areas. While the engine and power train complaints are fewer, they still warrant attention.
The recall count for the 2019 XC90 is elevated, which may affect long-term dependability. This higher number of recalls compared to other models in its class could signal persistent issues that have required manufacturer intervention.
Overall, the 2019 Volvo XC90 presents a moderate reliability profile, with a slightly above-average score but notable areas of concern. Buyers should consider the elevated risk associated with its reported issues and recall history.
What you get in a 2019 Volvo XC90 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 2019 Volvo XC90 now
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2019 Volvo XC90 — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2019 Volvo XC90 reliable?
The 2019 Volvo XC90 scores slightly above its segment average, indicating moderate reliability. The vehicle's reliability is mixed, with complaints spread across several areas. Electrical system and service brake issues are among the most reported, suggesting potential concerns in these areas. While the engine and power train complaints are fewer, they still warrant attention.
How many recalls does the 2019 Volvo XC90 have?
6 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2019 Volvo XC90. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2019 Volvo XC90 problems?
The most-reported 2019 Volvo XC90 problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (7), Electrical System (7), Engine (4).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2019 Volvo XC90?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2019 Volvo XC90, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
