IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2016 Volvo S90 (SPA)

The SPA S90 flagship saloon launched in 2016, replacing the S80 II, with 2.0 Drive-E petrol and diesel power, T8 plug-in hybrid on top and an interior that won world awards; UK cars arrived 2016/17 as fleet and executive buyers’ choice.

What changed for 2016

  • •2016: second-generation S90 (SPA) launched
  • •2020: mild-hybrid B5/B6 naming and software upgrades; 2021-22 Google-native infotainment
  • •2025: final model year before the electric ES90 replaced it (Volvo production data shows S90 sales through 2025)

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Air suspension faults on higher trims
  • !Diesel dilution and EGR items
  • !ERAD hybrid failures on T8 cars
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

ERAD (Electric Rear Axle Drive) Failure on T8 Recharge

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Like other SPA hybrid models, the rear electric motor can suffer coolant ingress past seals, damaging internal bearings and disabling pure EV propulsion.

Est. Repair Cost: £3,500–£8,000
Warning Signs:

Whine from rear axle in electric mode, "Propulsion System Service Required" message, Petrol engine runs continuously

What to Inspect:
  • Drive in Pure mode at various speeds
  • Check service history for ERAD coolant inspection campaigns
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Front Suspension Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The heavy executive saloon chassis accelerates wear on front hydro-bushings, leading to knocks over urban speed bumps and front-end tramlining.

Est. Repair Cost: £350–£750
Warning Signs:

Clonking noise over sharp road imperfections, Vibration through steering under moderate braking, Uneven front tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect front lower arm rear bushes for perished rubber or fluid stains
  • Check steering precision on a test drive
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

D4/D5 Diesel EGR Cooler Soot Blockage & Leakage

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

On high-mileage or town-driven D4 and D5 diesel models, the EGR cooler and valve can clog with soot or develop internal coolant leaks, triggering limp mode and coolant loss.

Est. Repair Cost: £450–£1,100
Warning Signs:

Check Engine Light with EGR flow codes, Gradual coolant level drop without external puddles, Sluggish acceleration

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect coolant expansion tank level
  • Check for soot accumulation around the EGR pipework
  • Review service history for EGR recall campaigns
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2016 Volvo S90 (SPA)

  • 2019-2020 cars balance the tech and the value.
  • Late 2025 S90s were still selling new in the UK as the ES90 arrived.
2017–2020
Check a 2016 Volvo S90 (SPA) by Registration