The 2003 Volvo XC90 marked Volvo's entry into the competitive SUV market. It's a mid-size SUV known for its safety and family-friendly design. Available as a five-door SUV, the XC90 was offered in trims like the base 2.5T, T6, and later V8 models. Its popularity stemmed from its blend of Scandinavian design, focus on safety, and comfortable ride. Original pricing ranged from approximately $34,000 to $46,000.
The Good
The 2003 Volvo XC90 offers a comfortable and safe driving experience, appealing to practical buyers with its reputation for safety and family-friendly design. The spacious interior and Scandinavian design provide an emotionally appealing sense of security and style. While not a performance SUV, it delivers adequate power for everyday driving.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2003 Volvo XC90 include potential issues with the automatic transmission, particularly in the T6 models. Electrical gremlins and problems with the early model years' turbocharger are also areas to watch out for. Suspension components and the all-wheel-drive system can also require maintenance.
2003 Volvo XC90: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.5T: 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-5
- T6: 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged inline-6
- Horsepower:
- 2.5T: 208 hp
- T6: 268 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.5T: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- T6: 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
- 0-60 mph Times:
- 2.5T: Approximately 8.9 seconds
- T6: Approximately 7.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
- Trim-Level Features:
- 2.5T (Base): Standard features include leatherette upholstery, dual-zone climate control, power front seats, and a premium sound system. Safety features include side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, and Volvo's whiplash protection system (WHIPS).
- T6: Adds leather upholstery, wood trim, and upgraded audio. May also include features like a sunroof and premium wheels.
- Common Options (available on both trims):
- Navigation system
- Rear parking sensors
- Third-row seating (increased seating capacity to seven)
- Premium audio system upgrade
2003 Volvo XC90 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Volvo |
| Model | XC90 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | All-Wheel Drive 2.5-T |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Sweden |
| Manufacturing City | TORSLANDA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4354 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5640 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | B5254T2 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $33,350 |
| Invoice Price | $31,349 |
| Delivery Charges | $685 |
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What Problems Does the 2003 Volvo XC90 Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2003 Volvo XC90 often revolve around the automatic transmission, especially in the T6 model. The T6's transmission, sourced from GM, was sometimes unable to handle the engine's torque, leading to premature failure. Turbocharger issues, including oil leaks and failures, are also common, particularly in higher-mileage examples.
Electrical problems, such as malfunctioning sensors and issues with the climate control system, are also reported. Suspension components, including control arms and bushings, tend to wear out over time, requiring replacement. The all-wheel-drive system's viscous coupling unit (VCU) can also fail, leading to reduced traction.
Recalls for the 2003 XC90 have addressed issues such as fuel pump relay problems and potential steering issues. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to verify if all applicable recalls have been performed. Long-term reliability can be a concern due to these potential issues, making thorough pre-purchase inspections essential.
Electrical problems, such as malfunctioning sensors and issues with the climate control system, are also reported. Suspension components, including control arms and bushings, tend to wear out over time, requiring replacement. The all-wheel-drive system's viscous coupling unit (VCU) can also fail, leading to reduced traction.
Recalls for the 2003 XC90 have addressed issues such as fuel pump relay problems and potential steering issues. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to verify if all applicable recalls have been performed. Long-term reliability can be a concern due to these potential issues, making thorough pre-purchase inspections essential.
How long will the 2003 Volvo XC90 last?
With proper maintenance, a 2003 Volvo XC90 can reasonably reach 200,000 miles or more. However, reaching this milestone heavily depends on consistent maintenance, including timely oil changes, transmission services, and addressing issues promptly. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan.
Long-term durability is affected by the aforementioned transmission and turbocharger issues, as well as the wear and tear on suspension components and the AWD system. Rust, while not a major issue, can be a concern in regions with heavy road salt usage. Regular inspections are essential to identify and address potential problems before they escalate.
Long-term durability is affected by the aforementioned transmission and turbocharger issues, as well as the wear and tear on suspension components and the AWD system. Rust, while not a major issue, can be a concern in regions with heavy road salt usage. Regular inspections are essential to identify and address potential problems before they escalate.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2003 Volvo XC90 came standard with features expected for its time, including a premium sound system with a CD player, dual-zone automatic climate control, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional tech included a navigation system and a rear parking sensor system, enhancing convenience. Entertainment options were limited compared to modern standards.
Driver-assistance features were less sophisticated than today's offerings, but included anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control. However, the XC90 shined in safety. Standard safety features included side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags covering all three rows, and Volvo's Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS).
Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) were generally good, earning high marks for frontal-offset and side-impact crash protection. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also awarded the XC90 high star ratings in its crash tests, solidifying its reputation as a safe vehicle for families. Its robust safety cage and comprehensive airbag system contributed to its strong performance in these evaluations.
Driver-assistance features were less sophisticated than today's offerings, but included anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control. However, the XC90 shined in safety. Standard safety features included side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags covering all three rows, and Volvo's Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS).
Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) were generally good, earning high marks for frontal-offset and side-impact crash protection. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also awarded the XC90 high star ratings in its crash tests, solidifying its reputation as a safe vehicle for families. Its robust safety cage and comprehensive airbag system contributed to its strong performance in these evaluations.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black Stone
Silver Metallic
Dark Blue Pearl
Red Brick
White
Quartz Sand Metallic
Graphite Metallic
Interior Colors
Beige
Black
Taupe
2003 Volvo XC90 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2003 Volvo XC90 had an MSRP ranging from approximately $34,000 to $46,000, depending on the trim level and options. Today, used market prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Depreciation has been significant due to the vehicle's age and potential maintenance costs. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, maintenance records, and whether major repairs, like transmission work, have been performed. Lower mileage and well-documented maintenance will command higher prices.
2003 Volvo XC90 Cost of Ownership
The 2003 Volvo XC90 can be costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are moderate, but fuel economy is relatively poor, especially for the T6 model. Maintenance and repair costs can be high due to the vehicle's age and potential for needing specialized Volvo parts and labor. Addressing potential transmission and turbocharger issues can significantly increase ownership expenses. Overall, it's not an economical choice compared to newer, more efficient vehicles.
2003 Volvo XC90 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline (Required)
Fuel Capacity
19 gallons
City Mileage
16 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
22 miles/gallon
2003 Volvo XC90 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2003 Volvo XC90 Recalls & Defects
Steering:linkages:tie ROD Assembly
Recall date
2006-05-05
Recall no.
06v155000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles,the Outer TIE ROD Ball Joint CAN Deform AT High Loads Causing A Loss OF THE Clamping Force and THE NUT MAY Loosen, Which MAY Eventually Lead TO A Fatigue Fracture OF THE Outer TIE ROD Ball Joint.
Consequence
THE Driver MAY Notice That THE Vehicle IS Difficult TO Maneuver Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Outer Ball Joint TIE Rods With Improved Outer Ball Joint TIE Rods Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 23, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes
Volvo Recall NO. R157.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer
Recall date
2006-04-28
Recall no.
06v144000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Vehicles, IF THE Wiper ARM IS Activated IN Extreme Winter Weather Conditions and Without Lifting THE Wiper Arms and Cleaning THE Windshield Prior TO Moving, THE Wiper ARM Might Slip ON ITS Driveshaft, Resulting IN AN Inability TO Move THE Wipers From THE Park Position.
Consequence
Inoperative Wipers Under Inclement Weather Conditions Could Cause A Crash DUE TO Impaired Visibility.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Wiper Arms and Retaining Nuts. THE Recall Began ON September 5, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Volvo Cars AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes
Volvo Recall NO. R156.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administrationvolvo Recall NO. R156.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts:rear/Other
Recall date
2003-10-10
Recall no.
03v391000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles, THE Seat Belt Attachment(S) FOR THE Second and Third ROW Seat(S) MAY NOT Have Been Fitted Properly.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Seat Occupant MAY NOT BE Properly Restrained, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect and Repair THE Second And/Or Third ROW Seat Belt Attachments. Owner Notification Began ON December 8, 2003. Owners Should Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes
Volvo Recall NO. 127.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Equipment:electrical:navigational System(Global Positioning System)
Recall date
2010-11-08
Recall no.
10v566000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volvo IS Recalling Certain Vehicles Equipped With Garmin 760 Portable Global Positioning System (Gps) Units Because THE Batteries ON Those Units MAY Overheat.
Consequence
AN Overheated Battery Could Lead TO A Fire.
Remedy
Volvo Advises Owners TO Please Stop Using THE Garmin Portable GPS Device Immediately, and Visit THE Garmin Website TO Determine IF Their Unit IS Affected. THE Unit's Battery Will BE Replaced With A NEW Battery and A Spacer Will BE Inserted ON Top OF THE Battery Next TO THE Pcb. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON November 18, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Garmin AT 866-957-1981 or Visit Garmin's Website AT Www.garmin.com/Nuvibatterypcbrecall.
Notes
Volvo Safety Recall NO. R231.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2009-12-18
Recall no.
09v483000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volvo IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001-2005 S80, Model Year 2001-2004 V70, S60, Xc70 and Model Year 2003-2005 Xc90 Vehicles Sold IN or Registered IN THE States OF Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia and THE U.s. Territories. When Exposed TO Certain Environmental Conditions (Hot Climate and Temperature Cycling) Over Time and IN Combination With Varying Fuel Quality, THE Fuel Pump CAN Develop Cracks IN THE Fuel Pump Flange.
Consequence
IF THE Condition Occurs Vehicle Owners MAY Notice Fuel Smell And/Or Fuel Leak Which, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Fuel Pump Installed IN THE Vehicle, and IF Necessary Replace THE Fuel Pump With A Part OF A Modified Design. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON January 15, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Volvo AT 1-800-458-1552.
Notes
Volvo Safety Recall NO. R220.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
2003 Volvo XC90 Insurance
Insurance for a 2003 Volvo XC90 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Volvo XC90 Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2003 Volvo XC90 competed with SUVs like the Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Lexus RX300. In terms of performance, the XC90's T6 engine offered comparable power to some rivals, but its transmission was a weak point. The Acura MDX generally offered better reliability. The BMW X5 provided a sportier driving experience but at a higher price point and potentially higher maintenance costs. The Lexus RX300 offered a smoother ride and strong reliability.
In terms of features, the XC90 offered a comparable level of equipment, particularly regarding safety. However, the RX300 often included more luxurious features as standard. Pricewise, the XC90 was generally competitive.
Alternatives to consider include the Acura MDX (for better reliability and a slightly sportier drive) and the Lexus RX300/RX330 (for greater comfort and a reputation for longevity). The Buick Rainier or GMC Envoy could also be considered for similar price and features, but may not match the XC90's safety focus. Given the age, condition is paramount; if reliability is a top priority, the RX300/RX330 are likely better options.
In terms of features, the XC90 offered a comparable level of equipment, particularly regarding safety. However, the RX300 often included more luxurious features as standard. Pricewise, the XC90 was generally competitive.
Alternatives to consider include the Acura MDX (for better reliability and a slightly sportier drive) and the Lexus RX300/RX330 (for greater comfort and a reputation for longevity). The Buick Rainier or GMC Envoy could also be considered for similar price and features, but may not match the XC90's safety focus. Given the age, condition is paramount; if reliability is a top priority, the RX300/RX330 are likely better options.
Ranks #1789 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 1789 | 2003 Volvo XC90 | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Volvo XC90 a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2003 Volvo XC90 is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a safe and family-friendly SUV with a distinctive Scandinavian design. However, it's crucial to proceed with caution due to potential reliability concerns and high maintenance costs. It's worth buying only if you find a well-maintained example with comprehensive service records and a clean pre-purchase inspection. Avoid the T6 model unless the transmission has been demonstrably serviced or replaced. A 2.5T model in excellent condition could be a reasonable choice. Be prepared for potentially higher-than-average repair bills compared to more reliable competitors.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.