This page covers 5 recalls, 12 owner complaints and EPA fuel economy for the 2010 Volvo Xc90.
15–18 mpg combined
13.1–15.7 L/100km
Sport Utility Vehicle - 4WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 3 tested variants for this model year.
For the 2010 Volvo XC90, the fuel and propulsion system draws the most complaints. Owners describe engine stalls at highway speeds, typically with the check engine light coming on, and the issue recurring consistently when the fuel level drops to around a quarter tank. Related reports mention a strong gasoline smell inside the cabin after filling up, traced to the area beneath the rear seats, along with at least one report of a fuel line leak discovered after a stall. Steering complaints are the other notable theme, with owners describing the wheel shaking and becoming difficult to manage above 50 mph, along with a steering column that intermittently sticks and then feels loose.
12
Total Complaints
By System
The 2010 Volvo XC90 has 5 recalls, the most serious being two separate fire risks: a portable Garmin GPS unit whose battery can overheat and ignite, and a fuel line that can leak near an ignition source and catch fire at the front wheel.
The fuel system concern appears in two related filings describing the same problem: a defective fuel pressure line or connector that allows fuel to seep and, over time, develop into a more significant leak. On the steering side, power steering fluid can leak from the connection at the steering gear valve housing, causing the steering to suddenly feel much heavier and harder to turn, which raises the risk of losing control. One of the steering recalls specifically affects vehicles equipped with a V8 engine.
At a glance
What can fail
Power steering fluid can leak from the oil pipe connection at the steering gear valve housing.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the oil pipes on the power steering rack at no cost.
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Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
On some V8-equipped vehicles, the power steering line can leak where it connects to the steering gear valve housing. Fluid loss reduces steering power assist, potentially causing loss of control.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the power steering gear housing oil lines.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The battery in Garmin 760 portable GPS units can overheat.
What the fix does
The battery will be replaced with a new battery, and a spacer will be installed between the battery and circuit board.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A manufacturing defect in the fuel pressure line may cause fuel smell or seepage. The line operates under constant pressure, so small leaks can quickly worsen into larger fuel leaks.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the fuel pressure line and replace it if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Fuel may leak where the fuel line connects to a connector due to a manufacturing defect in certain fuel lines.
What the fix does
Dealers will check the fuel line's date code and replace the fuel pressure line if it's in the recalled range at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
