Volvos have always been reliable and safe to buy, and many people still buy years old Volvos. The XC90 is also not an exception. It is a decent used car to buy, but under certain conditions.
Generally, people love XC90s. However, like every other car, the XC90 had some issues which should be looked for before buying the car. Naturally, older models also tend to have more problems than newer models.
All about the Volvo XC90
The XC90 was launched in 2002, and soon it became a jewel in Volvo’s crown. It was the most premium car ever made by Volvo. The car was built on a P2 platform, which was good at that time. Although, the newer second generation had an even better platform, the SPA, which increased its balance and protection.
The XC90 attracted a good number of buyers when it was released. The mid-size SUV was originally launched with gasoline and diesel options; however, the diesel option was discontinued in the second generation. The car always had an Aisin Corporation transmission and the second-generation T8 model introduced a plug-in hybrid version.
Best features of the XC90
The XC90 is packed with tons of wonderful and attractive features. If we only talk about safety features, then it is surely one of the best. Even the older model has better safety features than some new cars which are similar in price.
The safety features which lured people towards the XC90 included:
- Multiple airbags
- Inflatable side curtains
- Blindspot detection
- Lane-keeping aid
- City safety collision
- Whiplash protection
- Pilot assist with adaptive cruise control
If safety features aren’t enough to attract someone, then the XC90 also has some other fantastic features. It is definitely a luxury vehicle, and like every other luxury vehicle, the XC90 also has one of the best interior and exterior designs. Volvo’s interiors have always had a minimalistic design. The front seats have heated/cooling seats and massage options with ventilated leather made by NAPPA.
The body of the XC90 is also better looking than some of its rivals. Even the first generation XC90 had a better body shape than many new SUVs. The 2.0-liter car also produces up to 400 hp.
Things to check before buying a used XC90
There are certainly many things to check before buying a previously-owned car. The used car is not like new ones where you just have to check the reviews of that particular model. When buying a used car, you have to check some other factors as well, like:
- Known faults of the car
- Reliability
- Warranty
- Insurance
- Maintenance
- The engine
Known faults of the XC90
Like all car models, theXC90 also came with some minor known faults. These faults vary from vehicle to vehicle, and some vehicles faced more issues than others. Fortunately, if the car has been well maintained, none of these issues are likely to be a big problem. Some of these minor issues include:
- Suspension in the 2nd generation had some problems. Several people reported issues with suspension as Volvo used air suspension for the first time in their cars.
- Some newer 2nd generation models had issues with Sunroof leakage. These issues were fixed in many vehicles, but they can still exist in some older models.
- Some buyers reported getting their airbags fixed.
- Brakes – as with all SUVs, the XC90 also had some issues with brakes.
- Some issues with the transmission.
Things to consider before buying an XC90
There are always many aspects to think about before buying a used car. Used cars are not like new cars, where you just have to look at the car and the dealer. You should get the following things checked before buying the car:
- Check the charging gear and get the car checked by a hybrid-certified technician if it’s a hybrid.
- Look for any unwanted vibrations.
- Warranty – always check for warranty and the number of miles remaining in warranty. Non-warranty XC90 can bother you, especially if it’s an older model.
- Maintenance – check for the maintenance history of the car. Check if the previous owner used the authentic dealership for maintenance.
- If you’re going to buy a diesel engine, then go for D5 because of its power and less strain.
- The newer the model, the better it is.
Final Verdict
If you are looking for a luxury car with the best safety features, then the XC90 is not a bad choice. Every used car can worry you with some problems. Always check for a warranty. We recommend buying a car with at least some warranty left, and then you can usually even extend the warranty by paying extra.
However, having said that, the XC90 can easily run 200,000 miles. Volvo has a good history of older cars. XC90 owners on many forums and communities still praise their cars and appreciate others buying this car. So, if you want to buy an XC90, then look at some things we discussed and enjoy your car.
FAQ
Is buying a used German car worth it?
There are many pros and cons to buying German cars. Used German cars can surely be a good option if you are sticking to a budget. Some pros are:
- You can drive in high speed
- The car looks perfect and stylish on the road
- The performance of German cars is always enjoyable
- The luxury feeling of a German car
- Good safety features
But as the saying goes, “There’s nothing so expensive as a cheap German car.” German cars can pose some issues like:
- Expensive spare parts
- Expensive repairing cost
- Less fuel-efficient
- Often have heavy 2.0-liter engines
How many maximum miles is okay on a used car?
Cars usually can run 200,000 miles if they have been taken care of and driven carefully. If you are looking to buy a car that is 4 or 5 years old then there’s a high chance the car will have driven a maximum of 60,000 miles, or around 12,000 per year. Nowadays, cars usually don’t go through massive repairs before the 200,000-mile mark.
It’s impossible to know if a used car is good based on mileage alone. It largely depends upon the previous owner. Many factors like how did they drive, maintenance, and accidents history can affect used cars. Therefore, there’s not a single factor, but you can use the 12,000-mile/year average formula.
What are the best used cars under $20,000 in the US?
There are many options for used cars available for under $20,000, including:
- 2009 Audi A3 – up to $7,450
- 2009 Lexus IS – up to $10,855
- 2015 BMW 2-Series – up to $27,887
- 2016 Toyota Prius – up to $20,939
- 2018 Kia Soul – up to $24,346
- 2015 Buick LaCrosse – up to $20,617