Last updated: 2026-04-20

Volvo S90

0 Volvo S90 Years to Avoid

Years that score significantly below the Volvo S90 average of 67/100

All Volvo S90 years score consistently around the model average of 67/100 — no years are statistical outliers. The best year is 2021 71/100 and the weakest is 2022 65/100.

Verdict

All Volvo S90 years score consistently around the model average of 67/100 (6571 range) — no years are statistical outliers. The best is 2021 71/100 and the weakest is 2022 65/100.

What Are Common Volvo S90 Problems?

Top reported issues across all Volvo S90 model years, based on NHTSA owner complaints.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

3 complaints

Most reported in 2018

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

Most reported in 2018

Best Volvo S90 Year to Buy Instead

67
GoodReliability score: 67 out of 100, rated Good

2018 Volvo S90

The 2018 Volvo S90 has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 12 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Volvo S90. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (3), Latches Locks Linkages (1), Tires (1).

Score: 67/100 (Good)2 recalls12 complaints
View full 2018reliability report →
VIN History Report

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Even the best Volvo S90 year can have hidden problems. A VIN check reveals past accidents, title issues, and service gaps for the exact car you're considering.

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  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All Volvo S90 Years by Generation

All model years ranked by reliability score, grouped by generation.

Our data covers 20182025 model years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Volvo S90 years should you avoid?
All Volvo S90 years in our database score consistently around the model average of 67/100. No years are statistical outliers, though some are stronger than others.
What is the best year for the Volvo S90?
The best year for the Volvo S90 is 2021, with a reliability score of 71/100 ("Good"). It has 2 recalls and 0 owner complaints.
How many recalls does the Volvo S90 have?
Across all years in our database, the Volvo S90 has a total of 22 recalls. Recall counts vary by year — check individual model year reports for details.
Is a used Volvo S90 worth buying?
Yes, especially the 2021 model year, which scores 71/100. Stick to years at or above the model average of 67/100 for the best ownership experience.
What are common Volvo S90 problems?
The most common Volvo S90 problems are electrical system (3 complaints), service brakes (2 complaints). These issues are reported across multiple model years based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
Is the Volvo S90 reliable long-term?
The Volvo S90 has an average reliability score of 67/100 across all model years in our database, rated "good". Overall, it is a reliable vehicle, though some model years perform better than others.
How much does it cost to maintain a Volvo S90?
The estimated annual maintenance cost for the Volvo S90 is $976 based on independent repair cost databases. This may vary depending on the model year and driving conditions.
Is the 2021 Volvo S90 a good used buy?
Yes, the 2021 Volvo S90 is the highest-scoring model year with a reliability score of 71/100 ("Good"). It has 2 recalls and 0 owner complaints, making it a solid used buy.

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

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

3

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.

4

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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