IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2015 Volvo XC90 (Gen 2)

The all-new SPA XC90 launched in 2015 (first UK deliveries early 2015 as 2015/16 cars) with T5, T6 and D5 Drive-E engines, the Thor’s Hammer front end and a seven-seat luxury interior that reset the brand.

What changed for 2015

  • •2015: second-generation SPA XC90 debuts
  • •2016-18: plug-in hybrid T8 added; B-series mild hybrids from 2019-2020
  • •2024: second major facelift, with Volvo stating it sells alongside the EX90 for the foreseeable future

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Air suspension leaks on higher cars
  • !Sunroof drain flooding
  • !Early D5 dilution software notices
4
Known Issues
3
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

ERAD (Electric Rear Axle Drive) Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

T8 plug-in hybrids are notorious for rear-motor failure, often caused by internal coolant ingress. Coolant leaks past the seals into the motor housing, leading to bearing failure or internal short circuits. In the UK, main dealer replacement of the ERAD unit is extremely costly (£5k-£9k).

Est. Repair Cost: £3,000–£9,000
Warning Signs:

Whine or "marbles in a tin" grind from rear axle, AWD unavailable message, Reduced EV or hybrid performance

What to Inspect:
  • Drive in Pure and Hybrid modes
  • Listen for rear-axle noise during acceleration
  • Confirm if the car has received the latest ERAD coolant-drain or seal service campaigns
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Sunroof drain blockages and water ingress

SeriousBodywork & Rust

The sunroof drains can block with debris, leading to water entering the cabin, often soaking the footwells and potentially damaging the central fuse box (CEM).

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£2,500
Warning Signs:

Damp carpets (especially front), Musty smell, Intermittent electrical faults or "Christmas tree" dash lights

What to Inspect:
  • Feel for dampness in the front footwells
  • Check for water marks on the headlining
  • Ask if the sunroof drains have been regularly cleared
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Air suspension leaks or compressor wear

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

Optional air suspension brings the usual luxury-SUV risk of leaking bags and tired compressors.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Car sits low after parking, Compressor runs often, Harsh or floaty ride

What to Inspect:
  • Overnight stance
  • Height adjustment speed
  • Recent air-suspension invoices
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Sensus infotainment freezing and rebooting

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Early XC90s can suffer screen freezes, slow responses and the temporary loss of climate, navigation and camera functions.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£1,000
Warning Signs:

Screen reboots, Climate menus disappear, Camera or nav becomes unavailable

What to Inspect:
  • Use navigation, media and climate together
  • Check software version and update history
  • Allow a long enough test drive for glitches to appear
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2015 Volvo XC90 (Gen 2)

  • Post-2024 cars have the updated software and interior; early cars need recall checks.
  • Seven-seat practicality is the XC90’s strength but check third-row headrest anchors.
2016–2018
Check a 2015 Volvo XC90 (Gen 2) by Registration