Volvo S90 Problems: 3 Issues Every Owner Should Know

The Sensus infotainment system in the S90 suffers from significant lag, screen freezes, and black screen episodes. Since the system controls climate, seat heating, navigation, and vehicle settings through the central touchscreen, a crash renders many vehicle functions inaccessible. The system runs on a Tegra K1 processor that struggles with the software load, especially when running multiple features simultaneously. Volvo has released numerous software updates, and the transition to Google-based Android Automotive OS in 2024 addressed the hardware limitations but introduced new software bugs.

The S90 equipped with rear air suspension (standard on Inscription and optional on other trims) experiences air spring leaks and compressor failure, typically after 50,000-70,000 miles. The rear air springs develop cracks in the rubber bladder, causing slow leaks that worsen in cold weather. The compressor then overworks to compensate, eventually burning out. The S90 uses the same Continental air suspension components as the XC90, which share this failure pattern. Some owners report repeated failure within 20,000 miles of repair if only one component is replaced.

The T6 twin-charged engine in the S90 has a coolant crossover pipe (also called the coolant bridge or manifold) that runs between the cylinder head and the turbocharger. This pipe develops leaks at the O-ring seals, causing coolant loss that can lead to overheating if not caught. The plastic components in the coolant routing deteriorate from heat cycling. The leak is often slow and can be mistaken for condensation. Volvo updated the pipe design in 2021 with improved materials. The issue also affects XC60 and XC90 T6 models.