I've found a handful of 04/05 XC90's in my area (Maine, USA) that I'd like to take a look at. All are in the 90-120k mileage range. Fortunately, none of them have the dreaded T6/bad tranny combo. All are the T5's.

Does anyone have any tips on how to effectively kick the tires on these things? What to look for under the hood and chassis?

Obviously any strong prospects will get a thorough check by my trusted mechanic.

Thanks in advance!

 

Off the top of my head, with that mileage:

1) Timing belt service -- critical and due by then.
2) PCV system serice. I haven't heard a lot of problems with the XC90, but it's the same system as other Volvos, so maintenance at that mileage is necessary.
3) Oil seeping from the rubber hose going from the intercooler to the pipe that crosses over the engine.
4) Torn lower control arm boots.
5) Worn ball joints / sway bar end links.
6) Test AWD system (if equipped) by turning the wheel and giving it a good bit of gas. The front tires should slip a very little bit, then stop when the rear wheels start to get power. I think the spec for this is something like 1/6 of a front wheel rotation for the AWD to kick power to the rear. Problems with this usually indicate angle gear problems. ($$$).
7) Check the power windows' auto up/down function. The windows can get out of calibration and return to the fully open position after "closing".
8) Brake vacuum pump is more frequently a problem than people realize, since it doesn't throw a check engine light code.

Then there are all the other normal things to look for -- maintenance records, damage/repair history, basic feel and function, alignment/balance, etc.