We own a 2006 XC-90, V-8. So far the rear wheel bearings have been replaced twice. The first time the rear end overheated and "fused" together. The front wheel bearings (both) went out as well and were replaced. This was done for "free" because I was at 52,000 miles. I also got the "software upgrade overwrite", all the recalls installed to include both tie rod ends. I also had the transmission "serviced." That was less than 2 months ago and my check engine light is on and the transmission is slipping badly. The check engine light is due to a faulty sensor on the gas tank and Volvo knows about it. But mine lasted to just out of warrantee so for $300 I'm told they will fix it. So far I have no answer on the transmission but I don't get return phone calls anymore from the dealer or Volvo USA. Makes a person wonder.

 

Sadly, CarMax told me due to the mileage on our 2006 XC-90 (V-8) that they really don't want it on their lot. I was advised not to bother bringing it for an appraisal. They already know the faulty transmission installed in my model will, no doubt, fail between 55,000 and 70,000. A used car lot refusing a 2006 Volvo. Today was extremely disappointing for me.

 

I thought the lousy trannies were on the pre-'06 models (T6)?
From what I've read on these forums, the tranny was improved for the 2006+ years.

 

Ours was delivered November 2005. We ordered it late August 2005. I guess we were the lucky 2006 model to get a left over faulty transmission. The transmission issue came about just after we had it "serviced" but we are being told there is absolutely NO WAY that has anything to do with what's going on. The check engine light came on when the transmission started to fail. But that came on and stayed on after the “lose gas cap” warning message arrived. That, too, mysteriously came about from the last visit and they did the software overwrite to fix issues I wasn’t experiencing. But, again, I’m being told there is NO WAY what they did affected the vehicle in this way. With the warrantee expired my XC-90 will be a cash cow for Volvo. With the wheel bearings already failing 3 times I see no reason not to expect them to fail again.

When you buy a Yugo and it falls apart at 55,000 miles it's really laughable. You know and understand you paid for a low quality vehicle with a worse reputation attached to it.

 

The 2006 Volvo XC90 V8 is a solid SUV, but it does have some known weak points. The top five issues include:

1️⃣ Transmission failure – Regular ATF changes (JWS 3309 spec) help, but some need a valve body rebuild.
2️⃣ Timing chain & camshaft issues – If you hear rattling, check the chain tensioners and cam actuators.
3️⃣ Power steering leaks – Common at the rack seals; use Pentosin CHF-11S, not ATF.
4️⃣ AWD driveshaft & angle gear problems – Carrier bearing and angle gear sleeve can fail.
5️⃣ Exhaust manifold cracks – Heat stress can cause cracks, leading to leaks and ticking sounds.

💡 Solution: Regular maintenance and early fixes will keep your V8 running strong. I’ve seen plenty of high-mileage XC90s stay reliable with proper care. Need help? Let’s troubleshoot! 🚗💨

– Evans Torres | The Volvo Life