What can I do to ensure a Volvo XC90 is mechanically sound?

Hi, I'm pondering a second-hand Volvo XC90 2.5T AWD from a dealer. It comes at a reasonable price, with a clean Cartell.ie report and a three-month warranty. However, it's at the top of my budget. I know as much about cars as the mice know about the moon - it's big and shiny. What can I do to check if the car will drive me for some time without major faults?

Piotr Berlowski (Dublin)

Mar 2012 Filed under: choosing used car

---

Expert answer

Hi Piotr,

On the mechanical front the Volvo XC90 has been subject to a number of manufacturer recalls over the course of its life. Depending on what year car you are looking at some of these will not apply but it is worth questioning the dealer about the most recent recalls to ensure that all work has been done.

To deal with the specific car you are looking at, we would suggest have it checked by a competent mechanic before purchasing. If you do not have a friendly mechanic to hand Cartell.ie offers a 'Four star check', which in addition to the detailed history report also includes a full check by an automotive engineer. At €295 it offers great peace of mind, especially when dealing with a high-end car like the Volvo XC90.

Hope that helps.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser
@Shane_O_D