2011 Volvo XC90 Problems and Complaints

Senior Editor,

Updated on August 6, 2024

The 2011 Volvo XC90 still remains quite competitive in the segment, as it encompasses a combination of an upscale exterior and interior design front, along with a practical interior layout, and potent powertrain options. The Volvo XC90 is a flagbearer of the Swedish brand’s reputation for making safe vehicles, yet it is in dire need of an upgrade. The 2011 XC90 starts at an MSRP of $38,200, and comes with a proper Basic warranty package of 5 years or 60,000 miles and a Drivetrain warranty of 4 Years or 50,000 miles.

2011 Volvo XC90 front-angled exterior image

The sparsely-equipped SUV is rather good on the reliability side with just a single recall and 18 complaints officially according to the NHTSA. The powertrain of the vehicle has seen the highest number of reported complaints followed by the electrical system. Laggy acceleration issues were present in the vehicle right from the beginning for some users while the other issues came up later. The 2011 Volvo XC90 finds the BMW X3, the Audi Q5, and the Acura MDX as its rivals in this segment.

Volvo XC90 user complaints and problems

Engine problems

Laggy acceleration: This issue was reported by a few users. The owners reported that on several occasions, the engine responded late to the throttle inputs and the driver had to floor the gas pedal to get going.
Multiple engine issues: Other than the laggy acceleration issue, which was repetitive, other problems reported by the owners were one time and specific to that affected vehicle only. One owner reported that the serpentine belt of the engine went out but there was no warning sign on the instrument cluster. The only symptoms were loss of power steering and air conditioning system failure. Another owner reported that the vehicle’s transmission went into a protective mode which stalled the engine suddenly. In an isolated incident, the battery of the affected vehicle drained completely on multiple occasions according to the report.

Electrical problems

Battery dying issue: Several owners complained that the batteries of their vehicles drained on multiple occasions. A few of them mentioned that it was a known issue with the specific model year of the XC90 where a faulty infotainment system resulted in the battery drainage issue. The reports further stated that the vehicles with an active SiriusXM subscription would search for account reactivation continuously even when the ignition of the vehicle was turned off. This resulted in the batteries dying overnight.

Mechanical problems

Power steering fluid leak: One owner complained about this particular issue against his 2011 Volvo XC90. He reported that the power steering system of the vehicle leaked fluid despite being topped up along with the steering making a whining noise while driving.

Safety problems

Seat belt issue: One owner reported a faulty seat belt. According to the report, the seat belt would refuse to retract fully after unlatching and the owner was concerned that the issue might get worse over time.

2011 Volvo XC90 recalls

S.No.	Recall Date	NHTSA Campaign ID	Issues noticed	Additional remarks	Remedy
1	May 18, 2011	11V286000	Power steering	This condition could lead to a sudden loss of power steering, increasing the risk of a crash.	Dealers will replace the oil pipes on the power steering rack free of charge. The recall is scheduled to begin in June 2011.

Should you buy a used Volvo XC90?

The Volvo XC90 makes a solid option if safety is your primary area of focus with luxury being your second. Its reliability issues are minimal and with proper maintenance, the vehicle can serve you loyally for years. Going for a used example would be a good option if you get it at a much lower price point than its original MSRP. On the other hand, you can consider the BMW X3 or the Audi Q5 since both of these vehicles offer a lot for almost the same price.

Similar Cars