2011 Volvo XC90
Only 19 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 19 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 19
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2011
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2011: 19 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2003 | 93 |
| 2004 | 462 |
| 2005 | 223 |
| 2006 | 53 |
| 2007 | 38 |
| 2008 | 29 |
| 2009 | 7 |
| 2010 | 12 |
| 2011 | 19 |
| 2012 | 3 |
| 2013 | 11 |
| 2014 | 4 |
| 2015 | 0 |
| 2016 | 197 |
| 2017 | 81 |
| 2018 | 52 |
| 2019 | 42 |
| 2020 | 34 |
| 2021 | 38 |
| 2022 | 31 |
| 2023 | 41 |
| 2024 | 38 |
| 2025 | 28 |
Known problem areas
Only 19 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine
5 of 19 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
The catillatic converter exploded as we started the vehicle .was a very loud explosion..no fire but lots of smoke.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-02-05
Electrical system
5 of 19 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
94,000 miles 2011 Volvo XC90 purchased 4 months ago. Vehicle was parked stationary in driveway.
NHTSA ODI report, 2021-04-20
Power train
3 of 19 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission.
Show complaint excerpts
From the beginning this vehicle has delayed acceleration, very dangerous to drive when pulling out in front of on-coming traffic, or making left hand turn with on-coming traffic.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-08-24
Also filed under Service brakes
Steering
2 of 19 total reports mention: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
Whining noise in steering..... I checked and leaking power steering fluid in 2015... Also in 2016, and now again in 2017... I added fluid each time....
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-11-10
Service brakes
2 of 19 total reports mention: service brakes.
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
2011-06-07Steering11V286000 Volvo is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 XC90 vehicles manufactured from January 29, 2010, through August 16, 2010. The power steering fluid may leak from the oil pipe connection at the…
Remedy: Dealers will replace the oil pipes on the power steering rack free of charge. The recall is scheduled to begin during June 2011. Owners may contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Buy-smart checklist
2011 Volvo XC90 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 3 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 11V286000 · Steering
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2011 Volvo XC90 reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2011 Volvo XC90?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 26% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2011 Volvo XC90 have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.