2021 Volvo V90: common problems and reliability

An average V90 year.

2 owner complaints, most about electrical system. 2 recalls.

Should I buy a 2021 V90?

The 2021 Volvo V90 has 2 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system. Owners most often flag engine reliability concerns: specific worry about the long-term reliability of the complex t6 twin-charged engine and supercharger failures, though not described as ubiquitous. broader concern that post-2016 "drive-e" engines are less reliable than older volvo powertrains.

Safety record for the 2021 model year

2
Owner complaints
2
Recalls
0
Crash reports
0
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 Volvo V90 vehicles (US, public record).

The Year Score compares this year with other V90 years only. How we score it

Is 2021 a good year for the V90?

Across the 10 V90 model years we track, complaint volume runs from 1 (2023) to 27 (1998). With 2 complaints, the 2021 V90 sits about the same as the model's median of 3.

These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.

Where owners report problems

electrical system
2

Recalls affecting the 2021 V90

seat belts:front:retractor

Campaign 21V682000

Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 XC40, XC 40 Recharge, V60CC, V90, V90CC, XC90, and 2021-2022 V60, XC60, S60 vehicles. The seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

air bags

Campaign 21V001000

Volvo Cars USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 Volvo V60, V60 Cross Country, V90, V90 Cross Country, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. The Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) control unit may not have been properly attached to the car body and may detach during a crash.

What owners say across generations

Overwhelmingly positive sentiment among owners, characterized by deep emotional attachment and high satisfaction. The vehicle is consistently praised for its stunning design, exceptional interior quality, and supreme long-distance comfort.

  • RecurrentEngine Reliability Concerns

    Specific worry about the long-term reliability of the complex T6 twin-charged engine and supercharger failures, though not described as ubiquitous. Broader concern that post-2016 "Drive-E" engines are less reliable than older Volvo powertrains.

Owner insights cover all generations of the V90. See the full V90 owner picture and every model year.

Typical used price

Used V90 listings typically run $50,887–$59,339.

Other V90 model years

Compare every V90 year side by side to see how 2021 ranks against the rest.

Compare the V90 against its rivals

Looking at a specific car?

We're building a full check by VIN: the exact trim and engine, its known problems and recalls, what to inspect, a fair price, and how it compares with its rivals. Get an email when it's ready.

One email when it launches. Unsubscribe any time. Privacy