Last updated: 2026-04-20

RELIABILITY SCORE: 67/100 (GOOD)

2018 Volvo S90 Reliability Report

Name: 2018 Volvo S90
Brand: Volvo

The 2018 Volvo S90 scores 67/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 12 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

12.1per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$976

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,550–$2,750

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity69/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs50/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity78/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
SERVICE BRAKES (2)
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (1)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 2)

2018 is year 2 of the First generation (SPA).

Redesigned for the 2017 model year.
A refresh arrives in 2020.
1st generation S90 (US).

What this means for buyers

Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.

If you're comparing prices, check 2017 (redesign year) vs 2018+ pricing and recalls.

2017: First generation (SPA) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2018: This Model Year

2018 is year 2 of the First generation (SPA).

2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2018 Volvo S90?

At 67/100, the 2018 Volvo S90 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 is year 2 of the First generation (SPA).

Owners log 12 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (3). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2019 Volvo S90, which scored 2 points higher.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Low recall count
+Below-average complaint rate for Sedan

Cons

−Frequent unscheduled repairs
−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Fuel door lock solenoid and rear door lock actuators (3 complaints)
−SERVICE BRAKES: Owners of the 2018 Volvo S90 report issues with the service brakes,... (2 complaints)

Compare 2018 Volvo S90 With

2018 BMW 5-Series

Reliability: 59/100

Mixed

2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Reliability: 55/100

Mixed

2018 Tesla Model S

Reliability: 46/100

Mixed

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
SERVICE BRAKES (2)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2018 Volvo S90 carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

12.1

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 24.9

LowAvgHigh

Moderate

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2018 Volvo S90 Recall Details

2 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Volvo S90. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

19V2200002019-03-20

SEATS

Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2018-2019 XC60 and S90 vehicles. The driver and passenger front seat rail rear flange nuts may not have been installed during assembly.

Consequence

If the nuts are missing, in the event of a crash, the front seat structure and position may be affected, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seat rails for missing flange nuts, installing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R19931.

18V8000002018-11-13

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Volvo Car USA LLC (Volvo) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Volvo XC90, S90, V60, V60 Cross Country, V90, XC40, XC60, and V90 Cross Country vehicles. The software installed in the Vehicle Connectivity Module (VCM) may have an error causing the Telematics and Driver Support Systems to function improperly. As a result, the GPS will not provide location information to emergency personnel in the event of an emergency.

Consequence

If the GPS location is not provided to emergency personnel it can inhibit emergency response in the event of a crash or injury.

Remedy

Volvo will notify owners, and dealers will correct the software, free of charge. The recall began December 26, 2018. Owners may contact Volvo customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo's number for this recall is R39917.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2018 Volvo S90? Check its history first

Every 2018 Volvo S90 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2018 Volvo S90 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Pelvis torso (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Available)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Volvo S90Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

2.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$976

Repair Frequency

0.8

unscheduled repair visits per year

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

25–27 MPG

Running cost: $3,550–$3,750/yr

Fuel + repair

22–24 city / 31–34 hwy MPG

Plug-in Hybrid

29 MPG

Running cost: $3,400/yr

Fuel + repair

26 city / 33 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
S90 FWD 2.0L 4-cyl	Front-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S8)	24	34	27	$2,550
S90 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S8)	23	32	26	$2,650
S90 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S8)	22	31	25	$2,750

Plug-in Hybrid trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
S90 AWD PHEV 2.0L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S8)	26	33	29	$2,400

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Volvo S90.

Inspect brake rotors for wear and vibration during braking
Test rear door locks for proper operation from both inside and outside
Verify fuel door opens and closes properly with remote
Check for any warning lights related to the Vehicle Connectivity Module (VCM)
Listen for any screeching noises when braking at low speeds

2018 Volvo S90 Common Problems by Component

12 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)SERVICE BRAKES (2)LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (1)TIRES (1)SEATS (1)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)STRUCTURE (1)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1)Other (1)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

3 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Volvo S90 frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the fuel door lock solenoid and rear door lock actuators. Complaints describe the fuel door failing to open, even with attempts to unlock it using the remote, which can leave drivers stranded without access to refuel. Another common issue involves the rear door not opening from either side, which owners note as a safety concern in emergencies. Additionally, the Vehicle Connectivity Module (VCM) may malfunction, impacting telematics and driver support systems, typically around 75,000 miles. These issues may pose safety risks, particularly the inability to quickly exit the vehicle through the rear door.

3 complaints total

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Volvo S90 report issues with the service brakes, highlighting two main failure patterns. One common issue involves the steering wheel shaking violently when the brake pedal is depressed, with this problem recurring approximately every 8,000-10,000 miles and requiring multiple rotor replacements. Another complaint describes a loud screeching noise when braking at low speeds, with the issue persisting despite four repair attempts by the dealership. The mileage at which these issues occur varies, with one owner noting problems at around 10,100 miles. Safety concerns are noted, particularly regarding the unknown nature of the screeching noise and its potential implications for driving with children.

2 complaints total

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint

2025-03-09

Rear right door lock failed, stuck closed. Extremely unsafe if someone was sitting in the back and unable to leave vehicle. It has been confirmed by others. It has been inspected by an independent mechanic. There has been zero warning lights to indicate the issue

TIRES (1 complaints)

TIRES

1 complaint

2023-10-20

255/35 R20 Bleb in sidewall with air leak through tread adjacent. No unusual trauma to tire.

SEATS (1 complaints)

SEATS

1 complaint

2022-09-14

water get inside the car in the back on the floor mat behind driver seat. was not aware of this problem at all.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

2021-01-04

Hi, When you drive over 70mph, steering, floors and whole cabin start vibrates, I have changed tires as Volvo recommended, alignment done. Everything dealer requested I have done. I have driven couple of more volvo as a loaners and noticed they all vibrates , but not bad as mine. Try to reach out Volvo head office but no proper resolution. They are keep blaming tires which I have changed 3 times but actually vibration happen from engine or somewhere else. Lots of Volvo owners online shares same issues online. Please help me out on this matter.

STRUCTURE (1 complaints)

STRUCTURE

1 complaint

2020-09-15

2018 VOLVO S-90. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO A PRODUCT FLAW. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLES FLOOR MAT HAD UNSNAPPED AND BECOME WEDGED UNDER THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THE CONSUMER WAS UNABLE TO DRIVE FORWARD OR IN REVERSE. *JS

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

2019-07-09

I PURCHASED A VOLVO S90 2018 FROM ECAR ONE . ON JULY 6 2019. I WAS TOLD BY THE SALEMAN VIRGIL . THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE DASHBOARD AND ALL I HAVE TO DO WAS CALL VOLVO DEALERSHIP AND THEY WOULD FIX FOR FREE. WHEN I CALLED VOLVO AFTER MY PURCHASE THEY SAID NO RECALL ON THIS VEHICLE. 0709

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint

2018-02-01

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 VOLVO S90. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SERVICE ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE FUEL MILEAGE WAS LESS THAN WHAT WAS STATED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER (GUNTHER VOLVO CARS COCONUT CREEK, 4300 SR 7, COCONUT CREEK, FL 33073, (954) 590-3760) MORE THAN TWICE FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND TO BE TEST DRIVEN, BUT THERE WAS NO PERMANENT REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND HAD NOT ISSUED ANY RECALLS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

When Do 2018 Volvo S90 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

8,000–10,000 milesBrake rotor issues

75,000 milesVCM malfunction

Best & Worst Volvo S90 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Volvo S90 Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Volvo S90 year is 2021 with a reliability score of 71/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (69/100) and 2019 (69/100).

Top Pick

Good

Volvo S90 Years to Avoid

No Volvo S90 years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Volvo S90 maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

See full Volvo S90 years-to-avoid analysis

Volvo S90 Reliability Score Trend

Volvo S90 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 67/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Volvo S90 reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	67/100	Good
2019	69/100	Good
2020	66/100	Good
2021	71/100	Good
2022	65/100	Good
2023	65/100	Good
2024	66/100	Good
2025	69/100	Good

Volvo S90 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	67/100 (predicted)	—	Predicted	0	0
2025	69/100	+3	Good	4	0
2024	66/100	+1	Good	2	1
2023	65/100	0	Good	3	2
2022	65/100	-6	Good	3	1
2021	71/100	+5	Good	2	0
2020	66/100	-3	Good	2	2
2019	69/100	+2	Good	4	0
2018(selected)	67/100	—	Good	2	12

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2018 Volvo S90 reliable?

The 2018 Volvo S90 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 67/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 12 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 Volvo S90?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 Volvo S90 include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints), LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (1 complaints), TIRES (1 complaints), SEATS (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2018 Volvo S90 have?

The 2018 Volvo S90 has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2018 Volvo S90 expensive to maintain?

The 2018 Volvo S90 has estimated annual repair costs of $976/year. With a reliability score of 67/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2018 Volvo S90 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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