My 2009 XC90 V8 at 93,000 started what I learned was to be called, torque converter shudder. At approximately 20+ mph and up to 35mph the transmission shifting is shaky and improves and runs smoothly with higher speeds. I have been to two reputable transmission shops and the answer from both has been a transmission replacement...$6000. I would appreciate hearing from anyone whose vehicle has had this same issue and what was done and what the repair charges were. My question is, can the transmission be repaired apposed to replacement? I feel I am getting sized up with what the shops can charge and make the most money instead of repairing the transmission parts. I will appreciate feedback. Thanks, Laird

 

Since 6 large is at risk I would try the usual fixes first.
1) Check fluid level in transmission. might be low, but of course that will damage a transmission so if you catch it early you may be OK. Or the shops may be correct.
2) Change the fluid. Really filthy fluid can cause shift issues, can't see how a xc90 could get it that dirty in 93.000 miles. But it's cheap to change and sure won't make it worse.

Never heard of replacing a transmission if just the converter is bad but I guess it is possible. As a general rule, when you take a car to a transmission shop, you need a trans, when you take it to a brake shop, you need brakes, when you take it to air conditioner place, you need an air conditioner, etc. And I don't want to besmirch the fine shops you have been to, but a 'reputable transmission shop' is sort of like a politician with morals.
First though, I'd take it to a volvo independent shop or, secondarily, a volvo dealer Someone who works on Volvos all day.