IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2017 Volvo V90 (SPA)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2017 Volvo V90 (SPA). 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

ERAD (Electric Rear Axle Drive) Coolant Ingress & Bearing Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

On T8 Twin Engine and Recharge models, internal coolant seal leaks in the rear electric motor housing can cause bearing failure and high-voltage electrical shorts.

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

Whining or whirring noise from the rear axle under electric acceleration, "Hybrid System Fault" dashboard alert, Loss of all-wheel drive and pure EV mode

What to Inspect:
  • Conduct road test in pure electric mode with windows closed
  • Check for hybrid system fault codes
  • Ask if the ERAD has been replaced with the upgraded unit
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Sunroof Drain Blockage & Passenger Footwell Water Ingress

SeriousBodywork & Rust

The rubber drain tubes for the panoramic sunroof can become blocked with dirt or dislodge, discharging rainwater directly into the front footwells and soaking wiring harnesses.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Damp carpets in front passenger footwell, Musty smell inside cabin, Intermittent electrical faults or warning lights

What to Inspect:
  • Feel the carpet underneath floor mats for dampness
  • Check for water staining along the A-pillar headlining
  • Verify sunroof drains run clear
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

D4/D5 PowerPulse Compressed Air Hose Rupture

ModerateEngine

The PowerPulse air hose delivering compressed air into the turbocharger exhaust manifold can split, producing a hissing sound and sluggish low-end torque.

Est. Repair Cost: £180–£350
Warning Signs:

Loud whoosh on hard acceleration from rest, Hesitation when pulling away from junctions, Check Engine Light

What to Inspect:
  • Visually inspect the braided PowerPulse hose in the engine bay
  • Feel for air leaks along the hose during revving
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Sensus and Google Infotainment System Freezing

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Early Sensus portrait screens (2016–2021) and early Android Automotive systems (2022+) can suffer slow startup, touch screen freeze, and temporary loss of climate control interface.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£350 (Software Update)
Warning Signs:

Screen black or stuck on Volvo logo, Climate control slider unresponsive, GPS signal lost in navigation

What to Inspect:
  • Test all touchscreen controls from cold boot
  • Verify that dealer has updated to the latest software release
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2017 Volvo V90 (SPA)

  • ✓On T8 Recharge models, test drive in Pure electric mode to listen for any whine or grind from the rear ERAD axle
  • ✓Inspect the panoramic sunroof drains and front passenger footwell carpets for signs of water ingress
  • ✓On models equipped with rear air suspension, ensure the car sits level after standing overnight
  • ✓Check D4 and D5 diesel engines for PowerPulse air hose integrity and check oil levels on dipstick
Check a 2017 Volvo V90 (SPA) by Registration