Vehicle Guide

2017 Volvo S90 Problems, Reliability & Owner's Guide

Common problems with the 2017 Volvo S90, reliability ratings, maintenance tips, and owner reviews. Get your complete owner's guide.

Overview

The 2017 Volvo S90 is a full-size luxury sedan that emphasizes Scandinavian design, quiet comfort, and advanced safety tech over sporty handling. This model year sits in the first year of the S90’s full redesign for the modern era, replacing the older S80 and moving upmarket against competitors like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Audi A6. It’s ideal for drivers who want a refined highway cruiser with a premium interior, strong safety credentials, and efficient turbocharged powertrains. As a flagship Volvo sedan, it’s positioned as a sophisticated alternative to the more common German choices.

Key Features

- Engine options: Most 2017 S90 models use Volvo’s 2.0L four-cylinder from the Drive-E family, including the T5 (turbocharged) and T6 (turbocharged and supercharged) variants. Output varies by trim, with the T6 delivering notably stronger acceleration for passing and highway merging. - 8-speed automatic transmission: Smooth, efficient gearing helps the S90 feel relaxed on long trips and supports respectable fuel economy for a large luxury sedan. - Advanced driver assistance: Many models are available with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping aids, and Volvo’s suite of crash-avoidance systems, making the 2017 S90 appealing to safety-focused buyers. - Premium cabin design: The S90 stands out with a clean, upscale interior layout, comfortable seating, and available luxury touches such as high-end leather, real wood trim, and a panoramic roof depending on configuration. - Modern infotainment: The large portrait-style center display is a signature feature, integrating navigation, audio, climate functions, and vehicle settings into one interface.

Common Issues & Reliability

Shoppers researching 2017 Volvo S90 reliability, 2017 Volvo S90 problems, and 2017 Volvo S90 common issues should know that the S90 is generally a comfortable, well-engineered sedan, but it can have a few recurring pain points—especially in early production years. - Infotainment and electronics glitches: Owners commonly report the center screen freezing, rebooting, or becoming slow to respond, sometimes appearing within the first 10,000–30,000 miles. Symptoms can include Bluetooth dropouts, camera lag, or intermittent sensor warnings. Software updates often help, but some vehicles may need module resets or repairs. - Engine oil consumption or leaks (varies by vehicle): Some owners report needing to top off oil between services or noticing seepage around engine seals as mileage climbs (often 40,000–80,000+ miles). Regular level checks are important, and any burning-oil smell or low-oil warnings should be addressed quickly. - Transmission behavior and drivability concerns: While the 8-speed automatic is typically smooth, a subset of drivers mention hesitation, harsh shifts, or clunks at low speeds, sometimes noticeable by 20,000–50,000 miles. Software updates and adaptation resets can improve shift quality; persistent issues warrant a professional diagnosis. - Suspension and brake wear items: As with many luxury sedans, brake pads/rotors and suspension components can wear faster depending on driving style and road conditions. Owners may notice brake pulsation (warped rotors) or front-end clunks (links/bushings) around 40,000–70,000 miles.

Frequently Asked Questions

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