2011 Volvo XC90 Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Electrical system failures, including battery drain and warning light issues, are the most frequent complaints.
- Delayed acceleration and hesitation are serious drivability concerns that can impact safety.
- A single recall addresses the steering system; verify completion.
- Expect high fuel costs due to the 4.4L V8 engine's 16 MPG combined rating.
2011 Volvo XC90
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent complaints involve battery drain, often linked to infotainment systems (XM/Sirius, Bluetooth), and a lack of warning for critical failures like serpentine belt loss. Sunroof drains can also lead to electrical fires.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing safety features and a comfortable ride over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a dependable, low-maintenance vehicle.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2011 Volvo XC90 Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Volvo XC90.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 16
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 5 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 4 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)
Est. shop cost: $150 - $250
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FAQ
Is the 2011 Volvo XC90 reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Volvo XC90 is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 29.
How practical is the 2011 Volvo XC90 for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 16 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2011 Volvo XC90?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Volvo XC90 is 6.2/10. Overall score is 6.2/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.3/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Volvo XC90?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $800 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System Components (Battery, Modules) (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1500+).
What engine is in the 2011 Volvo XC90?
Engine specs list 8 • 4.4.
What transmission does the 2011 Volvo XC90 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Volvo XC90, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Volvo XC90?
EPA combined estimate is 16 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Volvo XC90?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2011 Volvo XC90?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Volvo XC90, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2011 Volvo XC90 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Volvo XC90, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Volvo XC90?
NHTSA ratings: Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2011 Volvo XC90?
Top complaint category: electrical system (5 reports, 17.2% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Volvo XC90?
This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 Volvo XC90?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2011 Acura MDX and 2011 Lexus RX.