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2014 Volvo XC90 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2014 Volvo XC90 Report

Overall Score

6.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Below average reliability necessitates careful pre-purchase inspection.
  • Steering universal joint failure is a significant mechanical risk, often occurring around 85,000 miles.
  • A high TSB count (132) indicates numerous potential issues beyond formal recalls.
  • Airbag system concerns, though not a formal recall for this model, should be verified.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2014 Volvo XC90

The 2014 Volvo XC90 offers a blend of Scandinavian design and practicality, but used buyers should proceed with caution. Its 3.2L V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive provides adequate power for daily driving and moderate off-road capability. However, a significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and specific complaint areas like steering and airbags warrant close inspection. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, rated at 18 MPG combined.

Critical Failure Risk

The steering universal joint can wear out, leading to play and potential failure. This issue was reported at 85,000 miles.

Early detection can help you avoid a $200-$1,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

7
Air Bags1
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
18
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
23
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.0/ 10

Practicality

5.2/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing safety and a comfortable ride over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2014 Volvo XC90 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2014 Volvo XC90.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
7
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
18

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 1 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter (e.g., Volvo 30750020 or equivalent)) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2014 Volvo XC90 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 Volvo XC90 is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 7.

How practical is the 2014 Volvo XC90 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 5 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2014 Volvo XC90?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 Volvo XC90 is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 Volvo XC90?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter (e.g., Volvo 30750020 or equivalent)) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Universal Joint (typical at 85,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $700).

What engine is in the 2014 Volvo XC90?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.2.

What transmission does the 2014 Volvo XC90 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Volvo XC90, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 Volvo XC90?▾

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 Volvo XC90?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2014 Volvo XC90?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Volvo XC90, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2014 Volvo XC90?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Volvo XC90, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2014 Volvo XC90 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Volvo XC90, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 Volvo XC90?▾

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2014 Volvo XC90?▾

Top complaint category: air bags (1 reports, 14.3% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2014 Volvo XC90?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2014 Acura MDX and 2014 Lexus RX.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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