2012 Volvo XC90 Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Steering system failures, including loss of control and damaged components, are a critical safety concern requiring immediate inspection.
- Electrical system issues, including infotainment and backup camera malfunctions, are frequently reported and can be persistent.
- Powertrain complaints suggest potential transmission problems, especially in wet conditions.
- Despite no recalls, a high TSB count indicates numerous potential issues that warrant pre-purchase investigation.
2012 Volvo XC90
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints indicate issues within the electrical system, including infotainment and navigation systems. These can manifest as intermittent or recurring failures, sometimes without a clear resolution path due to vendor issues.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,500 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 Volvo's signature comfort and safety features over cutting-edge technology.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair risk.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Volvo XC90 Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Volvo XC90.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 18
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 1 reports
2. BACK OVER PREVENTION: CAMERA SYSTEM
Usage: 1 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection
Est. shop cost: $125 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Volvo XC90 reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Volvo XC90 is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 6.
How practical is the 2012 Volvo XC90 for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Volvo XC90?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Volvo XC90 is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 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 Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (Infotainment/Navigation) (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1500).
What engine is in the 2012 Volvo XC90?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.2.
What transmission does the 2012 Volvo XC90 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Volvo XC90, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Volvo XC90?
EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Volvo XC90?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2012 Volvo XC90?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Volvo XC90, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Volvo XC90 use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Volvo XC90, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Volvo XC90?
NHTSA ratings: Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2012 Volvo XC90?
Top complaint category: electrical system (1 reports, 16.7% of complaints).
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Volvo XC90?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Acura MDX and 2012 Toyota Highlander.