Models · Volvo
Volvo XC90 (2015 on) buying guide
The second-generation XC90, a seven-seat SUV sold from 2015 with 2.0 four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. Owners generally find the petrol and diesel models dependable, and it's a classy, spacious used buy.
The versions
- D4 (190PS) and D5 twin-turbo 2.0 diesels
- T5 and T6 (320PS) 2.0 petrols
- Eight-speed Geartronic automatic
- Air suspension standard on R-Design and Inscription, optional on Momentum
- The T8 plug-in hybrid is not covered here
What to check on a second-generation XC90
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Electrical sensors and warning lights
What to look for: Watch the dashboard after start-up for warning lights, open and close the powered tailgate and any sunroof, and check the brake lights work. On the drive, notice any warning messages appearing, especially when turning.
Why it matters: Some owners have had electrical faults and sensor problems that sometimes needed several dealer visits. A failing steering angle sensor can trigger other electrical faults, and the sunroof and tailgate sensors and brake switches can fail. A healthy 12V battery helps keep the electrics happy.
Vibrations, knocks and air suspension
What to look for: On a car with air suspension, check it sits level on all four corners. On the drive, feel through the seat and steering wheel for vibrations that appear at certain speeds, and listen for knocks or rattles over bumps.
Why it matters: Odd vibrations at certain speeds are a known XC90 trait, and wheel balancing, alignment or new tyres often cure them. Suspension knocks and rattles are another known concern. Air suspension is standard on R-Design and Inscription, so check it holds the car level.
Water in the footwells and boot
What to look for: Lift the mats in the front and rear footwells and press the carpet underneath for damp. Lift the boot floor and look in the spare wheel area for water or tide marks.
Why it matters: Water in the footwells or boot, or damp carpets under the mats, can point to sealing or drainage problems. Caught early it's a straightforward fix before it reaches any electrics.
Also in the full guide
- Fuel, coolant and diesel recalls
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the second-generation XC90
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Volvo.