[carmonkey]

My other ride ( '04 BMW 530i http://********************/smile/emthdown.gif ) is getting traded in because it's an unreliable POS. As soon as the mechanic is done with it we want to trade it in on a 2005 or 2006 XC90 http://********************/smile/emthup.gif .
Could someone please point out what to watch for when buying a used xc90. Any common issues/expensive repairs to expect? Which engine should we get when reliability matters most not power. Please chime in on this and offer your experiences/advice.
Thanks
Greg

 

[Cabot]

Re: Looking to buy a used XC90 (carmonkey)

Avoid the T6 (2003-2006), they are prone to destroying their transmissions. For the 2003-2006 model year, the 2.5T is well regarded as is the V8. Both engines are reliable as far as I've heard.

I have a 2007 3.2 AWD and love it. For the '07 model year, a few changes were made such as iPod connectivity and better xenon lights. I have not had mine very long, so I cannot chime in on common issues as well as other owners can.

 

[Ljungeld]

Re: Looking to buy a used XC90 (carmonkey)

Welcome, Greg.

Sorry the Bimmer didn't work out. The ones we owned were pretty reliable, but none of them were built in this century.

Allow me to also caution you against the T6 model. The T6 enginedoesn't seem to be bad, but the transmission used in that model seems to be very unreliable, from what I've read. Do a search on here; you'll see lots of threads on the subject.

The T5 and V8 seem to be about equally reliable, as far as I can tell.

Volvo has a pretty good Certified Pre-Owned program. The cost of repairs these days could make the premium price paid for a CPO vehicle a good investment.

Kevin

 

[crash]

T6 owner here. despite the bad reputation of the T6, ours is a 2004 and has 83k miles on it. It's been on multiple 16 hour trips and it has taken us back home safely. The transmissions work, ours had a problem only after an emergency/panic braking event. Apparently, the emergency brake assist works too well and only cares about stopping. We had it in the shop for 3 days. .001% downtime(not too bad). rental car allowance provided by extended warranty.

With that said, you should look for the following items on your used car purchase:
1. Noisy A/C - the A?C either rattles or whistles. $1500 maintenance cost
2. built-in CD changer functions - stuck changer
3. any creaking noise - indicates damage front suspension mounts and bushings
4. turbo whistle - T6's have 2 of them -
5. any vibrations at medium speeds - indicates wheel bearing wear issues.
6. brake rotors/pads - ask dealer to put on new ones. These are always worn out and are a $400 expense that you don't have to pay.

strongly suggest you get extended warranty.