We designed this vehicle in Gothenburg 1993. The first concept model was built in Paris and quickly transported to the Detroit Show. I worked in the studio and helped design firstly the interior, then the exterior. Initially, the engine overheated in Arizona on test. We wanted to add a really cool air intake to the hood, but the MD thought it looked too sporty for the middle aged market it was intended for.
I have a 2005 XC90 V8 fully loaded and rear with 230K. The paint is still good I got it back in 2015 for 1,300. It only needed a steering angle sensor and muffler at the time. My mom has a 2005 Freestyle Limited. Based off the XC90 it's just a knock off but still reliable. The only issues with these are the haldex models. The electronics are exposed to the elements under the vehicle.
"I think that's what this industry is really lacking, some transparency and honesty". I think that is what every industry is lacking, not just the car trade.
I'd happily purchase a vehicle from High Peak Autos - Cazoo, Cinch the likes shifting volumes of sub standard premium cars with mainly 1 key - anyone who knows a Electronic key from Merc is near on £500. Your not saving buying from big volume sellers support your smaller dealers, you'll have a much more satisfying seemless experience apposed to speaking to Bob, sue and John and going over the same issue! Apologies for the digress. Keep up the good work. Love the channel.
We bought one of these 5 years ago for not much more than that with the idea that even if it only lasted until the next MOT we could have a bit of fun. In the event it only lasted 9 months as we were involved in a full speed head on collision with a one year old skoda estate. We walked away with minor whiplash only and dented bodywork, smashed headlamps and front grill and deployed airbags. The skoda on the other hand was completely destroyed all the way up to the passenger compartment, engine in pieces and damage within the passenger compartment. With that kind of outcome we went out and bought a much better spec XC90 within a week. We absolutely love it as it so versatile. After the accident an error message came up on the dash which said in true volvo understated style: "Airbag service required - urgent"
@@williamdrijver4141 not true, and that was the gist of my comment, we bought another one straight away because of how it performed in the crash. For your information - since you werent there to witness it - we were driving along a stretch of road at 60mph. The vehicle in front swerved to avoid a car pulling out of the side and clipped into the side of an oncoming vehicle. That oncoming vehicle then lost control crossed onto our side of the road and we collided. All happened in the space of a few seconds. Estimated combined impact speed of approx 100mph.
Probably the safest car around. There was a stat going round a year or so ago that there had never been a fatality of driver or passenger involved in a crash in an XC90. Whether that's still the case I don't know but they are an absolute tank. Wouldn't want to crash in to one though
@@samjones3567 I believe thats the case for the Mk1 still, but not the current version the Mk2. I may be wrong though, and I believe its in the UK only. :-)
@@samjones3567 it's a true sat - no fatalities from within the car itself (however as regards others in the accident, they don't say). AIUI the strenthening panel that goes across the rear behind the rear wheels is made out of boron - extra-strong.
Buffing those headlights makes such a huge difference I'm amazed at such little cost how it transforms the appearance. In fact I'm amazed at most of the work you have done,the prices always seem very reasonable to me.. You have a very good team of contacts around you .
Ooooh looking forward to watching this. We bought a 2006 D5 Auto XC90 yesterday for £2000, and it is already the single greatest car I have ever driven. Fairly quick, comfortable, well-specced, best seats ever, massive luggage space, feels like it could pick a fight with a house and the house would lose. I know you're not a huge fan of the first gen Mat, but for us it was the car that ticked the most boxes for us, and we are thrilled so far!
@@Storm.Z.4u The German brands are money pits, the number of them that I see stranded at the road side is unbelievable. The XC90 might not be a drivers car but that's not the point, it's big, comfortable & very safe. & if you've got a family that safety takes priority of 'steering feel'. To this day nobody in the UK has died in an XC90, that's incredible when you consider how long they've been about for.
Enjoy. I bought a 2006 XC90 Executive back in mid 2018. Already had 112k miles on it and it ran like like a dream and was immaculate inside and out. Be careful though, I traded up for a new Mark II end 2019 and nearly 2.5 years later Im still in love with it. Would not swap for JLR / German / Japan alternatives. Your money, your choice.
@@Storm.Z.4u That's not the point is it, he's saying for the money it's the best car he's ever had, the fact he can't afford something you consider better is snobbery by you, the point is he is very happy with it, and I understand why, whereas you don't !
Absolutely love our 2003 XC90. I bought it as a family wagon about 6 years ago for £3k with 168k on the clock. It’s now nearly 230k and has been a truly reliable friend taking me and the kids all over the UK and Ireland. Sure, the kids have absolutely trashed the interior, the engine is noisy and the lag on acceleration is laughable but I have no doubt it will go another 100k miles.
I'm very suprised. We had a first gen S60. I assume they would share some parts. Anyway it was the most unreliable car to ever enter the driveway. Lasted less than a month. Let's just say no European branded car will ever be bought again after that. Super expensive buggers to maintain compared to the cheaper options. At least in the US. I assume European branded cars are easier to maintain there.
@@baronvonjo1929 I'm quite surprised at that too. I've got a 03 S60 with the same engine as the XC90 here and it's absolutely bulletproof. I mean sure, the handbrake doesn't work and it could use a couple more bits and pieces fixing but for a car with 200,000 miles on the clock I've not had to take it into a garage for anything bar regular maintenance in well over 10,000 miles.
A Volvo dealer close to where I am in Switzerland, had a V8 powered 2004 XC90 - about 10x your price, with about 150k KMs now sold! Saw it there 2 weeks ago...We bought our 2011 XC60 T6 Turbo for 28,800 CHF w 55k KMs and a warranty for the balance of the service up to 110,000kms I think which we passed in 2021. Apart from the oil changes and new brakes, transmission fluid pads, services, we've been to Italy, Germany, Austria, France and the UK in it, about 120,000KMs on the clock now, and apart from running low on oil once, while traveling, it's been ok.... Nice clear idea of how to be a good trader!! Cheers!
I love this channel, always makes me feel good that not all dealers are after your money, just trying to turn a profit. Not sure why i always find the service history check so satisfying, i guess its just nice to know people still like to look after there cars etc. get this man a job on top gear, if it were possible the og lot
im around 5000 euros into my Volvo V70 -06 i got for 1900 euros . Engine doesnt leak a drop of oil, put a new gearbox and clutch in it, and a lot of other parts. Its like brand new new, and no rust at all, even the paintjob is like new after a polish. No way im not getting this car to 1 million kilometers. 2-3 years? more like 15 years.
Had this exact model, colour and all, on a 54 plate from new. Came time to change after 150,000 faultless miles - and we bought another, as there was simply nothing on offer at the time that could compete with its practicality! They are, as you said, a perfect family hauler that can cope with the worst of the roads and weather we endure in the North Pennines. Keep on top of the maintenance and they’ll last for ever! Being a heavy auto, our major service costs are fairly frequent disc and pads replacements. On older cars such as ours and this 55 plate, the auto gearboxes can get hot when towing, so it pays to change the gearbox oil at regular intervals - not something required in a standard service, as the overheating can burn out the internal clutches of the gearbox. This issue was fixed on later cars with, I believe, the addition of an oil cooler for the gearbox.
We bought a 2004 xc90 a few years ago as a stop gap car. We did thousands of miles in it with our 4 kids. Great car. My Dad has it now. Anti-skid message easy to fix, as is the seized handbrake. I rate these cars highly. I love the sound the 5-cylinder diesel makes Matt.
How did you sort the anti skid message? Looking at forums and online advice it boils down to one of two possibilities........yaw sensor, or the angle sensor in the steering wheel. How did you fix yours?
Great video Matt, I think that's a massive improvement you've done for not a big layout, as a constant viewer of your videos I like that your happy to put money and transparency into older cars that the normal working man can afford. Yes you know I love the RR L322's but other channels don't showcase your ability to appeal to all different genres, well done and keep the channel growing I'm sure we may see you on mainstream TV soon, (in the car section obviously lol)
I bought myself a 2008 Volvo V70 back in the summer with the same seats, 2.4 D5 engine. So much room to throw the mountain bike in, super comfy, 50+mpg heated seats. Best car I have bought (my other car is an MX5).
I got one cheap at an auction, all sorts of warning lights on. All turned out to be cheap fixes. Put a new set of tyres on that have lasted 21k miles. Best car I have owned. Anti skid service being main one, cost £10 for a new sensor ring and easy to fit. Loose intercooler hose, fixed with new seal and jubilee clip.
What I like about these videos you do (I bought a…) you just come across as a genuine, honest bloke. You never seem to cut any corners. If I lived closer, I’d love to buy a car from you as I know you’d have done everything possible to make it as good as it as it can be. Good work Matt!
@@Storm.Z.4u Hardly - for a car to be produced in basically the same form for well over a decade - and to still be selling strongly right up until the day it was replaced says a lot for Peter Horburys original Xc90 design.
We drove this exact car (2008), and loved it! It was tried & true. Actually several in our friend group also had them. We all loved them. Volvo worked out so well, I then got a 2013 S60 R-Design (red). Still have it - runs like new. Then in 2017 we traded the XC90 for the new body style - in Bronze. It’s at 60k miles and we still love it! I plan to give the S60 to my daughter in a few years, and so now I’m now dreaming about a V90 Cross Country! I’m hooked! Great video too by the way! I’d make fun of your American accent, but I sound like Dick Van Dyke in Mary Poppins when I try British (not good!) LOL 😂
I admire your openness when doing these reviews, I'd totally buy from you. I love what you did with the car, looks really good after all the work. If Kenya allowed old car imports, this would've been a nice ride to have. The average rate for this in KE is 6,000
Very interesting and pleasant chaos to watch, Mat! I’ve got a 2008 XC90 V8 and it’s a great car. About to cross the 150,000 mile mark. It’s just in now for new front struts, tie rods, control arms, dampers, bushings and such, and I’m excited to get it back and have it on the road again. Thanks as always for your informative and honest videos. Good luck with this one!
Hi Charlie: Another XC90 V8 Owner here. It's a 2009 and I've had it a couple of years now. I absolutely love it..... BUT! Unfortunately, I have had to spend a fortune on it recently...not the faut of the car itself, though, but an avoidable accident. Despite the high cost of used cars here and the money I have spent recently.... It is still a fabulous car....IMHO...as they say! But Matt is right.... the steering leaves a little to be desired....could be better. Good Luck With Yours! Cheers.
@@HighPeakAutos You need to, Matt.... Most impressive! I don't do high miles so the fuel consumption is not a priority....I'd much rather have the sheer pleasure of safe overtaking than counting the pennies. ("If you need to ask what it does 'MPG'....why are you even wasting my/our time?"......Mmm?)
We ordered our 2004 XC90 in the US at the end of 2003. We picked it up in Gothenburg, Sweeden in December on Christmas day. (Unfortunately for us the plant was closed, so no visit). Volvo paid for our plane tickets (2) from Los Angeles to Sweden + a couple of hotel nights. We drove around Sweeden foe a few days and brought the car back to the plant. 2 months later, it was on our driveway in California. I believe that program is still existing. My wife was pregnant at the time with our older daughter, Juliette. I remember we said "this car will belong to Juliette on her 18th birthday". Well, Juliette is going to college in September, with her 2004 Volvo XC90. They have the same age. That XC90 looks just like new after a good detail. Phenomenal car and great memories!
Had a 2009 3.2 for a few years here in Oz. Great cruising car, very comfortable and practical. Not great around town but standard for a big SUV. Had to repair AC (got a cheap part off aliexpress) and had faulty bearing in the rear diff/haldex setup. Volvo wanted to replace for $6500. I got a kit for a mk2 Freelander with all the bearings and o-rings delivered (from UK) for about $250. Local garage did the work (rear suspension out for access) for about $2000.
I recently purchased a 2008 XC90 AWD V8 Sport model and I have to say, it is actually "great to drive" to quote him. It isn't the fastest thing ever of course, it weighs nearly 2.5 tons but the Volvo-designed, Yamaha-built 4.4L V8 sounds amazing and delivers immediate yet smooth power all through the rev range. It has over 220k miles but everything works & it was only $3000 US. Looking forward to driving it on camping trips to the mountains and lake this year!
Another first gen XC90 fan here. My grandad had a 53-plate from new and I remember it being the comfiest, most relaxing car to be a passenger in. He swapped it for an XC60 in 2010 but maintains that the 90 was one of the best cars he's ever had.
I am on my 2nd XC90, or more accurately my wife is. The first I px’d for the second when it had done 160,000 miles. When the second got to the same mileage I took it to my friendly independent with my wife and thought I would get the friendly garage owner to second my quest to chop it in for a newer model. Why the garage owner asked - what’s wrong with it! Well I said it’s done 160,000 miles!!! “So” he said, “bring it in and we will give it a thorough check over and let you know what your in for”. We duly did, to be told it needed a new set of windscreen wipers and a service (which it was due). Look after these cars and they will look after you. Safe as houses, brilliant seats and comfortable 7 seater.
Nice honest video Matt 👍🏻 It’s ok seeing new car reviews but old timers like the XC90 tank are perfect and interesting 🤩 You should let us know how much you get when you off load them Matt 👍🏻
Great review as usual! They are proper tanks for sure. I saw one that was crashed head on. The driver of the volvo got out with a few bruises. The one in the Huyndai van was all sent to the ER. Says a lot!
I quite like this old thing. Definitely a testament to regular maintenance and general care. It's probably got at least another 50k or so in it if looked after and driven carefully. Here in the Cotswolds, you'd probably get 2500 to 3 grand for it too. They're great school run cars apparently.
Just found your channel and subscribed 1 minute into your Lexus RX400h video. I loved buying older cars just for the fun and gamble of it and your videos are perfect for living vicariously! I drive a new Kona Electric 64KW nowadays so don't buy many older cars anymore. I've owned 65 cars in 17 years 😁
Great video. Honesty and transparency is one of the keys to your success Matt. Wonderful to see an old car looking so well with a bit of extra TLC being 'recycled' as a very nice family car. Who needs to spend a fortune on buying an electric tin can, when the could waft about in this luxury 4x4 , known for its reliability and safety. Well done Matt
My wife and I and our youngest daughter each have 2006 XC90S and dearly love them. One reason we love them is they give us no trouble. My XC90 5 cylinder turbo has 260,000 miles on it and I’ve had no problems and have no intention of getting I’d of it or any of them. They are just never in the shop except for general maintenance. We also have a 2006 V70 as a spare and a BMW 3 coupe for some reason but I can’t remember the reason. Just don’t want to get rid of it. “Volvo for ever”
Hi Matt I quite like the xc90 and to date volvo have reported that nobody has died in one in an accident that has to tell you how well made they are glad to see your back in your L405, looking stunning as always, the car by the way 😂 hope you had a great short break best wishes ian
These videos are very well done and quite addictive. Hats off to High Peak Autos, smart work and bloody good advertising for their business. Good luck to them.
Mate I love each and every video you’ve ever made. Filled with honesty and integrity. I can’t wait to buy a car from you. I’d take the XC90 from you if it was priced around the £2K mark but I have to justify buying another SUV to myself as well 😂
Great video as always Matt, I'd definitely buy a car from you, there's not many dealers out there who would do what you do to bring a car to a decent standard, for example, gearbox service and cam belt, let alone changing bushes, refurbishment of alloys etc. You're a long way from me and at the moment I'm not looking for a replacement car, however when I do I'll be looking at your stock. In the meantime I'm going to enjoy your videos and continue to recommend the good work that you do 👍😀
I bought my 2004 2.4d xc90 with 100k on the clock in November last year. Not missed a beat. Failed its MOT on a indicator bulb not correct colour as foil was peeling(which took 5 mins to sort out). It is honestly one of the nicest cars I have driven and a perfect family car.
I really enjoyed this especially as I was interested as you had previous expressed your dislike for them. I have an IX35 and will need something bigger in the next 12 months I think something like the XC90 will do nicely on a tight budget. School runs and camping weekends for a family of 5 and a dog.
Love these old Volvo's. I just picked up an 04 with 170,000 kms for $5,000 aud. We wanted a runaround for our country property. Serviced by a Sydney Volvo main dealer for 10 years followed by specialists with a new belt change recently. Considering this car was over 75K new in Aus, I do believe they're a bargain if loved. Good luck with the sale!
Great video, had the same 2005 model when my children where younger back in 2006. T6 model, great power, great seats. With the AWD and 2 turbos I traded it as it approached the end of its factory warranty (50,000 miles). Always regretted that. Don’t miss the ex though🤣🤣🤣
I wouldn't regret that one. The T6s were plagued with transmission issues. Which is rather sad, since the T6 engine was surprisingly great. Just a shame that they put a junk GM transmission behind it.
I once knew a guy who had an early model Hyundai i30 hit him head on at 30mph (around 70kmh). He got out of his 2009 XC90 with no physical injury whatsoever beside a sore wrist and a slight pain in his shoulder, his car had two smashed headlights, smashed grille, a twisted bonnet, large crack in the windscreen and the bumper bar was destroyed but it was still able to drive away. The young guy in the i30 who had fallen asleep at the wheel and came at my friend on the wrong side of the road will be spending the rest of his life in a wheelchair and his car was a write-off. Trust me, the XC90 is a road tank.
I debated between this and a newer Land Cruiser recently and went for the LC in the end as despite its old fashioned nature, it’s at least got the balls when it comes to dealing with our rural location and the landscape of our farm compared to the Volvo. That said, the XC90 would probably do 85% of the same job.
Thanks for a great video. It's refreshing to see that not all used car dealers are 'shady'. We were not massive fans of Volvo until we bought an 11 plate XC90 (in 2017) for an absolute song. We're now on our 3rd. Not sure I agree about the driving manners, but I guess that's personal opinion (which is always worth exactly what you pay for it 😉). Based on this video (which is the first of yours that I've seen) if I was in the market I'd bite your arm off for that car - but I'm sure it's sold already. Thanks again, I'm off to subscribe and check out your other deals.
Well Matt if I was looking to purchase a car and not a brand new overly expensive car or an equally overly expensive EV, I'd happily take that one off your hands. Even though I'd pay out more than double what my Fiesta costs per year and diesel costs more than petrol but with my own number plate added I'd say £2,500 is a reasonable price to pay for a car that could easily be converted and by that I mean the back seats taken out and the space used for sleeping and cooking in. But do I want it, hand on heart ???? Unsure.......
Another Volvo success story. Got a V70 with the 5 pot engine in. Just goes on and on and on, every day, whatever is chucked at it. You could drive through a thermo nuclear war and all it would say on the dash is check side light. The best. End of.
So many good, inexpensive, tough and practical old SUVs floating around. I like the seating position and the higher seat for getting in and out too, I couldn't go back to sedans. I looked at a XC90 when I shopping for my last car. Ended up with a 12 year old 4WD diesel Sorento, because I use the real 4x4 transmission on my very rough (and often muddy) steep driveway. It does the shopping, It does school runs. It does holidays to the bush and the beach. Drives like a car on the road and drives like a land rover offroad. For a few grand you can't go wrong. Whoever gets this one, happy motoring too you, don't forget to have a few adventures in it before you're old.
The alarm service required will almost certainly be a corroded contact on the horn. Clean it up so that it no longer throws a high resistance fault and you should be okay.
Transparency & Honesty. Two words sadly unknown to most used car dealers. You I would definitely buy a car from. As for the XC90, Astonishing for the money; bet the mpg figures are terrible though.
I have a 2005 XC70 2.5T5 and cannot find any logical reason to sell it. It is reliable, safe, comfortable and with an lpg installation quite cheap to drive. Drive it all day and you come out dapper, the seats are wonderfully comfortable. Also, since it is old, I have no worries loading it up, just as you said in the video. It's a beater but it's a luxury beater. Keeping it alive also conserves resources and energy. So could anyone give me one good reason to sell or scrap it? Apart from being materialistic and wanting the latest model?
Looks great after the mini revamp. I've always liked cars with plastic cladding, ensures the car looks good many years later, having avoided parking and shopping trip dings.
I've had a 2007 XC90 diesel for 12 years and 270,000kms later, fully serviced, it is still a very good car. It is an excellent highway car. Quiet, safe and a delight to drive with an excellent sound system and cruise control. Economy at 8L/100kms is good for a car that weighs 2.3T. What is really good about this car - everything on it works the same as when it was new. Brakes are sensational and steering predictable. The one essential upgrade was the headlight globes. I changed to LED and WOW - did that make a difference. I also added two auxiliary LED driving lights because we live in the country where darkness is pitch black. We need plenty of light to spot wildlife. And of course I keep the headlight lenses clear using Meguiars' products. One important point - I've always had the car serviced by a Volvo dealer simply because they connect the car to the Volvo network and run checks of updates. This can only be done by a Volvo dealer. Also, Volvo really does support their dealers so if there's a problem, Volvo will back them up. Last year, we bought another car - a 2009 XC60 diesel for our daughter and after a full service + a few other things I wanted fixed, the car owed us AU$17,000. With only 114,000kms on it. That has turned out be a very good deal. FYI>> as I type this, similar cars but with "much higher mileage" are selling for 18k - $20,000 online. This car just had it's 135,000km service and is in excellent condition. Our daughter is buying it from us.
What is wrong with you? 168.000 miles and scrap it after one year? The engine will last most likely minimum 250.000 miles before any major fault will happen.
As someone who bought an XC90 of this age in March this year, with slightly less miles on (And not any errors/warning messages) I paid £3000 for it, and I think "pup" is the best way to describe it. Water pump failed within 2 weeks, so needed a new pump and cambelt. But the biggest problem was blocked drainage channels underneath the windscreen so the inside effectivley turned to a fishtank at the first sign of heavy rain. :(
I have a XC90 D5 and bought it for the D5 engine. Mat doesn't like the sound of it but that's the famous D5 -rumble and I love it! It is a very strong and reliable motor. Before this car I had a V70 with the same motor and it had run 475000km when I sold it. The motor was still going strong.
You'll know this but check for dampness under the passenger seat . That can cause all sorts of issues with the anti lock brakes etc, all the electronic stuff is under the passenger's seat. Pull back the carpet and check. My ABS lights would come on after a mile or so. It eventually ground to a halt. It was like driving on ice, traction control kept coming on. It would reset if I turned it off and on, which I did outside the Mercedes main dealer where I traded it in . Good safe cars though.
Good to see it still has a dipstick, instead of a possibly malfunctioning sensor checking the oil level. And they didn't make the mistake of putting the oil filter above the alternator. Like they did on the 2 liter five cylinder diesel.
Bought this car a few years ago! And i can say its the most comfortable family car ever.Its true that its not sporty, but it never wanted to be, i think it feels like a luxury yacht! Its floaty, soft, and smooth! Im getting compliments on compliments on the comfortable seats! Everything fits… EVERYTHING!!! there is always space left!! I think the comfort in this car lies in the big boy yachty feeling, AND its a volvo! Its also true on the xc90. Nothing breaks! And if it does, i can fix it myself. There isn’t a place i cant reach or replace. And i have almost no tools! Best stress less, headache less, comfy family car by far!! ( previous cars : bmw 3, audi a3, mercedes slk, VW transporter )
From Experience. Dropping a new intercooler in will transform its performance (£500). Anti skid warning usually steering angle sensor clock spring - not cheap to repair (£450). Or could be lucky and need a cheap ABS wheel sensor / ring. Might be an MOT fail though. Alarm service due (saw on start up) means corroded alarm battery. A faff to replace and corrosion means whole unit will probably need replacing (not cheap) but not an MOT failure, however will eventually set the alarm off regularly and flatten the battery unless you remove the siren fuse. Parking sensors usually fail individually (and stop them all from working) but can replace cheaply enough - fault code reader will show which one. Cambelt needs doing now and will cost £400 ish. The previous owner probably knew the above and thought now’s the time to part ways. Shame as it will keep going well over 200k but needs £1500 spending on it to do so.
If that was not a Volvo that mileage would terrify me, but as you say " you do know your onions " lovely transformation, yet another great video, I really enjoy them, well done Matt !!!!!
I owned a 2007 for almost 3 years. D5 lux geartronic 2.4 5 cylinder. The thing almost ruined me. New servo tronic Bosch steering rack for £2000 fitted, labour was a nightmare then a few months later the dreaded anti skid message. I bought the Volvo dice Vida software and hardware, pointed to the Haldex module rather than the steering sensor. This was replaced at £1200 including some control unit that Volvo decided to place outside the car right next to road.... filled with mud and water. Gave it to charity for £400 and it’s now back on the road up north somewhere, was a willow green colour. We put 4 Michellin cross climates on ours and they were good tyres. Towed our horse around for a year until we bought a horse lorry, great car but fear the anti skid message !!
Brilliant! I love your reviews, your transparency, and your humour. Its about time you got an offer from Top Gear. I have a suspicion I will end up buying a car from you.
I own a 2004 t6 very nice for Canadian weather and the ride on it beats any new SUV . the most comfortable vehicle I have ever driven. Its rides like the older vehicles in the 70s . I'm 44 years of age and because of my jobs I have driven many cars but this t6 is at the top
I'm in need of a 7 seater now after it's just been announced my family is growing by 2 haha . I'll take the xc off your hands fella . Cracking video as ever
Many years ago when I used to drive a lot for my job my company always had a 'thing' for Volvos, (740 GLE estates mainly) it sort of stuck with me.... Apart from main dealer servicing costs which thankfully the company picked up, and as I like a few 4WD cars that XC90 will do a job for someone, and the day my Vitara gives up the ghost I would look for something like that as a replacement....Good on you Matt for saving another 'Beater'....Look forward to the next! 👍
Another one of my highly lusted after cars. It was a toss up between XC90 or Discovery 3 and in the end I bought a 3 Series. This XC90 looks like a bit of a bargain. You want my E91?
Not sure if another commenter has already said this, but DSTC service is probably steering angle sensor. Very common fault on these. Love P2 Volvos, I think it's because I was surrounded by them growing up. My mother's friend had a silver T6 with the same wheels, and compared to our Toyota Highlander, I thought it was just the best thing on the road. Glad to see they're still on the roads.
I’ve just sold my 2009 XC90 after four years and 40k miles. I loved it but they are underpowered and the 2.4 diesel doesn’t sound anywhere as nice as the D3 & D4 2.0 5 pot diesels they put in the V50/S40/C30/C70 range. The fact that the XC90 is underpowered means that the engine has to be worked hard to move them at a decent pace, hence the intrusive noise. Still a fantastic car though.
I’ve got one 🙂 It has a tow bar, binoculars, a road atlas and it is tuned to radio 2…… it is also a seventeen year old D5 auto, but the 2006 model year with a bit more go and an extra gear in the box. It only performs holiday and day out duties, with 50k miles from spanking……. I’ve had a ludicrous number of cars prior and since, but in the 4x4 realm it’s the best so far….. my manual G Wagon was better off road, my chipped and tuned V8 Amazon was faster and my Diesel Amazon had more torque…….. but, the XC90 pulls a big German caravan, overloaded with kit, a roof box with an outboard in it, a zodiac in the boot, bikes on the back of the caravan and four people with too much stuff….. easier than any other. The five pot engine has a characterful note and sits in top on the cruise control, virtually silent, lugging all that weight. Oh, and it wasn’t cheap to buy at 18 months old, but it was largely paid for by my Breakdown Recovery work and specifically poorly products of the Land Rover company…….. and has not cost a bean since, save normal servicing. If you look to buy an early one, as quoted, pre 2006 are much cheaper for tax, but the 185bhp 2006 model with the better box is the one to find, hitting the market late 2005, so 55 plate……. Lord Clarkson of Cotswolds has had many……. when he had a young family, he said he hated them, but couldn’t conceive not having one, and we all know he is never wrong. He said the Yeti was the best car………….. ………….. in the World 🌍🙂🇬🇧 Ironically, my daily driver……..
I have a 2008 d5 and I have had the anti skid error twice. Was due to a faulty steering angle sensor (300e) and a bad abs sensor (100e). The strongpoint of the gen 1 is that you have a Polo class luggage space available even with 7 people on board. Have to agree on the handling, it is not a drivers car. It is cleary built for the straight and wide 90-110kmh roads in Sweden (and the US)
Howdo Matt. Bought a manual one of these new in 2004, did almost 200k miles in 15 years, pulled a large caravan for about 40k and did my famiky proud. Only issues I had was the ABS ring (gives the faults you had) and the intercooler leaked. Seats like a sofa. Never felt tired on any kind of journey. Only changed as I fancied a newer one. Oh, and my headlights went like that too. Honesf car. Ian.
I can see someone buying this, and definitely keeping it for longer than a year or two. Bit of an upmarket brand, though certainly no Lexus or Mercedes. Might even be good enough to make it to 300,000 miles. Honestly, I wish you had a twin based here in America. Already seen a couple of cars on your channel that I'd be genuinely tempted to put in offers, if I was living near your neck of the woods.
The anti skid warning could just be a wheel sensor. Dirt cheap to fix. Mine ended up being a clock spring in the steering wheel as well as a sensor. You’ll know it’s the clock spring as it will reset when you start it but a sharp turn will set it off whereas a wheel sensor should have a permanent fault.
We designed this vehicle in Gothenburg 1993. The first concept model was built in Paris and quickly transported to the Detroit Show. I worked in the studio and helped design firstly the interior, then the exterior. Initially, the engine overheated in Arizona on test. We wanted to add a really cool air intake to the hood, but the MD thought it looked too sporty for the middle aged market it was intended for.
Super job
That’s some great info.
Thank you for sharing. 👍
I have a 2005 XC90 V8 fully loaded and rear with 230K. The paint is still good I got it back in 2015 for 1,300. It only needed a steering angle sensor and muffler at the time.
My mom has a 2005 Freestyle Limited.
Based off the XC90 it's just a knock off but still reliable. The only issues with these are the haldex models. The electronics are exposed to the elements under the vehicle.
Any concept images with the hood scoop?
@@kyleaegis5613 sounds like an aftermarket mod that needs doing!
"I think that's what this industry is really lacking, some transparency and honesty". I think that is what every industry is lacking, not just the car trade.
True enough
I'd happily purchase a vehicle from High Peak Autos - Cazoo, Cinch the likes shifting volumes of sub standard premium cars with mainly 1 key - anyone who knows a Electronic key from Merc is near on £500. Your not saving buying from big volume sellers support your smaller dealers, you'll have a much more satisfying seemless experience apposed to speaking to Bob, sue and John and going over the same issue! Apologies for the digress. Keep up the good work. Love the channel.
Yup..the same to pharmaceutical industry..they are scammers
We bought one of these 5 years ago for not much more than that with the idea that even if it only lasted until the next MOT we could have a bit of fun. In the event it only lasted 9 months as we were involved in a full speed head on collision with a one year old skoda estate. We walked away with minor whiplash only and dented bodywork, smashed headlamps and front grill and deployed airbags. The skoda on the other hand was completely destroyed all the way up to the passenger compartment, engine in pieces and damage within the passenger compartment. With that kind of outcome we went out and bought a much better spec XC90 within a week. We absolutely love it as it so versatile. After the accident an error message came up on the dash which said in true volvo understated style: "Airbag service required - urgent"
Wasn't full speed otherwise you wouldn't be here to type such comments. More like 15 mph.
@@williamdrijver4141 not true, and that was the gist of my comment, we bought another one straight away because of how it performed in the crash. For your information - since you werent there to witness it - we were driving along a stretch of road at 60mph. The vehicle in front swerved to avoid a car pulling out of the side and clipped into the side of an oncoming vehicle. That oncoming vehicle then lost control crossed onto our side of the road and we collided. All happened in the space of a few seconds. Estimated combined impact speed of approx 100mph.
Probably the safest car around. There was a stat going round a year or so ago that there had never been a fatality of driver or passenger involved in a crash in an XC90. Whether that's still the case I don't know but they are an absolute tank. Wouldn't want to crash in to one though
@@samjones3567 I believe thats the case for the Mk1 still, but not the current version the Mk2. I may be wrong though, and I believe its in the UK only. :-)
@@samjones3567 it's a true sat - no fatalities from within the car itself (however as regards others in the accident, they don't say). AIUI the strenthening panel that goes across the rear behind the rear wheels is made out of boron - extra-strong.
Buffing those headlights makes such a huge difference I'm amazed at such little cost how it transforms the appearance. In fact I'm amazed at most of the work you have done,the prices always seem very reasonable to me.. You have a very good team of contacts around you .
It does. Thanks
I'm guessing he gets a dealer rate since he brings in so many cars
@@GGoblin1 That's a big possibility and entitled to it if that's the case.
@@HighPeakAutos do you have any tips for finding the right bargains?
Did you need to use sand paper for the lights or just polish. I need to use mine
Great to see people still taking care of ordinary old cars, thanks for the video!
Ooooh looking forward to watching this. We bought a 2006 D5 Auto XC90 yesterday for £2000, and it is already the single greatest car I have ever driven. Fairly quick, comfortable, well-specced, best seats ever, massive luggage space, feels like it could pick a fight with a house and the house would lose. I know you're not a huge fan of the first gen Mat, but for us it was the car that ticked the most boxes for us, and we are thrilled so far!
If an XC90 is the best car you've ever driven then you must have driven very few and indeed very bad cars
@@Storm.Z.4u The German brands are money pits, the number of them that I see stranded at the road side is unbelievable.
The XC90 might not be a drivers car but that's not the point, it's big, comfortable & very safe.
& if you've got a family that safety takes priority of 'steering feel'.
To this day nobody in the UK has died in an XC90, that's incredible when you consider how long they've been about for.
Enjoy. I bought a 2006 XC90 Executive back in mid 2018. Already had 112k miles on it and it ran like like a dream and was immaculate inside and out. Be careful though, I traded up for a new Mark II end 2019 and nearly 2.5 years later Im still in love with it. Would not swap for JLR / German / Japan alternatives. Your money, your choice.
@@Storm.Z.4u No need to be terse if he loves his new-to-him car, surely?
@@Storm.Z.4u That's not the point is it, he's saying for the money it's the best car he's ever had, the fact he can't afford something you consider better is snobbery by you, the point is he is very happy with it, and I understand why, whereas you don't !
Absolutely love our 2003 XC90. I bought it as a family wagon about 6 years ago for £3k with 168k on the clock. It’s now nearly 230k and has been a truly reliable friend taking me and the kids all over the UK and Ireland. Sure, the kids have absolutely trashed the interior, the engine is noisy and the lag on acceleration is laughable but I have no doubt it will go another 100k miles.
I'm very suprised. We had a first gen S60. I assume they would share some parts. Anyway it was the most unreliable car to ever enter the driveway. Lasted less than a month. Let's just say no European branded car will ever be bought again after that. Super expensive buggers to maintain compared to the cheaper options. At least in the US. I assume European branded cars are easier to maintain there.
@@baronvonjo1929 I'm quite surprised at that too. I've got a 03 S60 with the same engine as the XC90 here and it's absolutely bulletproof. I mean sure, the handbrake doesn't work and it could use a couple more bits and pieces fixing but for a car with 200,000 miles on the clock I've not had to take it into a garage for anything bar regular maintenance in well over 10,000 miles.
A Volvo dealer close to where I am in Switzerland, had a V8 powered 2004 XC90 - about 10x your price, with about 150k KMs now sold! Saw it there 2 weeks ago...We bought our 2011 XC60 T6 Turbo for 28,800 CHF w 55k KMs and a warranty for the balance of the service up to 110,000kms I think which we passed in 2021.
Apart from the oil changes and new brakes, transmission fluid pads, services, we've been to Italy, Germany, Austria, France and the UK in it, about 120,000KMs on the clock now, and apart from running low on oil once, while traveling, it's been ok....
Nice clear idea of how to be a good trader!!
Cheers!
Huge fan of the first gen xc90.
Love the sound of the 5cyl.
He's already said that he hates the first gen in many videos
Yeah I'm not a fan
@@MGMutt I know. He has reviewed it before. :)
better than the second gen... something honest and not flash
It sounds great as does the TD5 in the Discovery
I love this channel, always makes me feel good that not all dealers are after your money, just trying to turn a profit. Not sure why i always find the service history check so satisfying, i guess its just nice to know people still like to look after there cars etc. get this man a job on top gear, if it were possible the og lot
Love seeing older vehicles given some love and brought back to a good usable motor. Keep em coming please 🙏
im around 5000 euros into my Volvo V70 -06 i got for 1900 euros . Engine doesnt leak a drop of oil, put a new gearbox and clutch in it, and a lot of other parts. Its like brand new new, and no rust at all, even the paintjob is like new after a polish. No way im not getting this car to 1 million kilometers. 2-3 years? more like 15 years.
Totally agree
Had this exact model, colour and all, on a 54 plate from new. Came time to change after 150,000 faultless miles - and we bought another, as there was simply nothing on offer at the time that could compete with its practicality!
They are, as you said, a perfect family hauler that can cope with the worst of the roads and weather we endure in the North Pennines. Keep on top of the maintenance and they’ll last for ever!
Being a heavy auto, our major service costs are fairly frequent disc and pads replacements. On older cars such as ours and this 55 plate, the auto gearboxes can get hot when towing, so it pays to change the gearbox oil at regular intervals - not something required in a standard service, as the overheating can burn out the internal clutches of the gearbox. This issue was fixed on later cars with, I believe, the addition of an oil cooler for the gearbox.
Honda CRV 2005 model
We bought a 2004 xc90 a few years ago as a stop gap car. We did thousands of miles in it with our 4 kids. Great car. My Dad has it now. Anti-skid message easy to fix, as is the seized handbrake. I rate these cars highly. I love the sound the 5-cylinder diesel makes Matt.
D5 engine is unbelievable mate eh
How did you sort the anti skid message? Looking at forums and online advice it boils down to one of two possibilities........yaw sensor, or the angle sensor in the steering wheel. How did you fix yours?
Great video Matt, I think that's a massive improvement you've done for not a big layout, as a constant viewer of your videos I like that your happy to put money and transparency into older cars that the normal working man can afford. Yes you know I love the RR L322's but other channels don't showcase your ability to appeal to all different genres, well done and keep the channel growing I'm sure we may see you on mainstream TV soon, (in the car section obviously lol)
Kudos to you Matt for publishing a video of a car that is actually on your forecourt right now. Not one dealer I follow does this.
Zs
Thanks! Its my job and I have to make profit to be in business. I've got nothing to hide
I think the channel is a perfect advert.
I bought myself a 2008 Volvo V70 back in the summer with the same seats, 2.4 D5 engine.
So much room to throw the mountain bike in, super comfy, 50+mpg heated seats. Best car I have bought (my other car is an MX5).
It looks fantastic after the clean up definitely worth more than £1500
Totally agree
That's why he's selling it for more.
@@MotorTorq_ZA Obviously you wouldn't as it's still for sale.
Forgeddabowdit
@Rainbow Showers where does it say trade sale ??
I got one cheap at an auction, all sorts of warning lights on. All turned out to be cheap fixes. Put a new set of tyres on that have lasted 21k miles.
Best car I have owned. Anti skid service being main one, cost £10 for a new sensor ring and easy to fit. Loose intercooler hose, fixed with new seal and jubilee clip.
I seem to remember that Clarkson was a big fan of the XC90 - highly practical, with more storage options than a hiker's jacket.
It's impossible to read this sentence without hearing Clarkson's voice.
Yeah, he owned one
@@mathiasvdk Jeremy owned at least 2 XC90s, he loved them
What I like about these videos you do (I bought a…) you just come across as a genuine, honest bloke. You never seem to cut any corners. If I lived closer, I’d love to buy a car from you as I know you’d have done everything possible to make it as good as it as it can be. Good work Matt!
Evening Mat, I love these old buses, seats like armchairs in them Volvo's. And thanks for bringing the weather back with you
Glad you enjoyed it
Must confess to having a bit of a soft spot for these early XC90s. For me, they're the best looking large-ish 4x4s.
Specsavers?
@@Storm.Z.4u Hardly - for a car to be produced in basically the same form for well over a decade - and to still be selling strongly right up until the day it was replaced says a lot for Peter Horburys original Xc90 design.
@@Storm.Z.4u Ooh, harsh! ;D
We drove this exact car (2008), and loved it! It was tried & true. Actually several in our friend group also had them. We all loved them. Volvo worked out so well, I then got a 2013 S60 R-Design (red). Still have it - runs like new. Then in 2017 we traded the XC90 for the new body style - in Bronze. It’s at 60k miles and we still love it! I plan to give the S60 to my daughter in a few years, and so now I’m now dreaming about a V90 Cross Country! I’m hooked! Great video too by the way! I’d make fun of your American accent, but I sound like Dick Van Dyke in Mary Poppins when I try British (not good!) LOL 😂
Interesting. Volvos are a bit left field but all the better for that.
I bought a 2008 XC90 and it's the best vehicle I've ever had (I've had 7 different vehicles since I turned 17).
Well done buddy.
Being honest and transparent is bigger then any advertise!
I admire your openness when doing these reviews, I'd totally buy from you. I love what you did with the car, looks really good after all the work. If Kenya allowed old car imports, this would've been a nice ride to have. The average rate for this in KE is 6,000
That would be a far better send off for older cars than scrappage schemes in most of Europe
I have bought many used cars over the years and owned 3 xc90s. The V8,T6 and 2.4D. Your honesty and care is very refreshing to see! 🙂
Very interesting and pleasant chaos to watch, Mat! I’ve got a 2008 XC90 V8 and it’s a great car. About to cross the 150,000 mile mark. It’s just in now for new front struts, tie rods, control arms, dampers, bushings and such, and I’m excited to get it back and have it on the road again. Thanks as always for your informative and honest videos. Good luck with this one!
The V8 is soo much better than the T6... great engine! The D5 is cheaper to drive but the V8... 🤩😍
I've never driven the V8
Hi Charlie: Another XC90 V8 Owner here. It's a 2009 and I've had it a couple of years now. I absolutely love it.....
BUT! Unfortunately, I have had to spend a fortune on it recently...not the faut of the car itself, though, but an avoidable accident.
Despite the high cost of used cars here and the money I have spent recently.... It is still a fabulous car....IMHO...as they say!
But Matt is right.... the steering leaves a little to be desired....could be better. Good Luck With Yours! Cheers.
@@HighPeakAutos You need to, Matt.... Most impressive!
I don't do high miles so the fuel consumption is not a priority....I'd much rather have the sheer pleasure of safe overtaking than counting the pennies. ("If you need to ask what it does 'MPG'....why are you even wasting my/our time?"......Mmm?)
The V8 is a hugely respected Yamaha engine with a real cult following
We ordered our 2004 XC90 in the US at the end of 2003. We picked it up in Gothenburg, Sweeden in December on Christmas day. (Unfortunately for us the plant was closed, so no visit). Volvo paid for our plane tickets (2) from Los Angeles to Sweden + a couple of hotel nights. We drove around Sweeden foe a few days and brought the car back to the plant. 2 months later, it was on our driveway in California. I believe that program is still existing. My wife was pregnant at the time with our older daughter, Juliette. I remember we said "this car will belong to Juliette on her 18th birthday". Well, Juliette is going to college in September, with her 2004 Volvo XC90. They have the same age. That XC90 looks just like new after a good detail. Phenomenal car and great memories!
That’s a great experience
Had a 2009 3.2 for a few years here in Oz. Great cruising car, very comfortable and practical. Not great around town but standard for a big SUV.
Had to repair AC (got a cheap part off aliexpress) and had faulty bearing in the rear diff/haldex setup. Volvo wanted to replace for $6500. I got a kit for a mk2 Freelander with all the bearings and o-rings delivered (from UK) for about $250. Local garage did the work (rear suspension out for access) for about $2000.
I recently purchased a 2008 XC90 AWD V8 Sport model and I have to say, it is actually "great to drive" to quote him. It isn't the fastest thing ever of course, it weighs nearly 2.5 tons but the Volvo-designed, Yamaha-built 4.4L V8 sounds amazing and delivers immediate yet smooth power all through the rev range. It has over 220k miles but everything works & it was only $3000 US. Looking forward to driving it on camping trips to the mountains and lake this year!
A friend bought the V8 version..for 2k ( here in the US)...I love it..( XC70 owner)..
Another first gen XC90 fan here. My grandad had a 53-plate from new and I remember it being the comfiest, most relaxing car to be a passenger in. He swapped it for an XC60 in 2010 but maintains that the 90 was one of the best cars he's ever had.
I had one of these. Drove it up to 250k miles. I really liked it. Love the 5 cylinder and I thought it was fun.
I am on my 2nd XC90, or more accurately my wife is. The first I px’d for the second when it had done 160,000 miles. When the second got to the same mileage I took it to my friendly independent with my wife and thought I would get the friendly garage owner to second my quest to chop it in for a newer model. Why the garage owner asked - what’s wrong with it! Well I said it’s done 160,000 miles!!! “So” he said, “bring it in and we will give it a thorough check over and let you know what your in for”. We duly did, to be told it needed a new set of windscreen wipers and a service (which it was due). Look after these cars and they will look after you. Safe as houses, brilliant seats and comfortable 7 seater.
Nice honest video Matt 👍🏻 It’s ok seeing new car reviews but old timers like the XC90 tank are perfect and interesting 🤩 You should let us know how much you get when you off load them Matt 👍🏻
Great review as usual! They are proper tanks for sure. I saw one that was crashed head on. The driver of the volvo got out with a few bruises. The one in the Huyndai van was all sent to the ER. Says a lot!
I quite like this old thing. Definitely a testament to regular maintenance and general care. It's probably got at least another 50k or so in it if looked after and driven carefully. Here in the Cotswolds, you'd probably get 2500 to 3 grand for it too. They're great school run cars apparently.
You're right
I reckon that car is good for another five years at least.
Just found your channel and subscribed 1 minute into your Lexus RX400h video. I loved buying older cars just for the fun and gamble of it and your videos are perfect for living vicariously! I drive a new Kona Electric 64KW nowadays so don't buy many older cars anymore. I've owned 65 cars in 17 years 😁
Great video. Honesty and transparency is one of the keys to your success Matt. Wonderful to see an old car looking so well with a bit of extra TLC being 'recycled' as a very nice family car. Who needs to spend a fortune on buying an electric tin can, when the could waft about in this luxury 4x4 , known for its reliability and safety. Well done Matt
My wife and I and our youngest daughter each have 2006 XC90S and dearly love them. One reason we love them is they give us no trouble. My XC90 5 cylinder turbo has 260,000 miles on it and I’ve had no problems and have no intention of getting I’d of it or any of them. They are just never in the shop except for general maintenance. We also have a 2006 V70 as a spare and a BMW 3 coupe for some reason but I can’t remember the reason. Just don’t want to get rid of it. “Volvo for ever”
Hi Matt I quite like the xc90 and to date volvo have reported that nobody has died in one in an accident that has to tell you how well made they are glad to see your back in your L405, looking stunning as always, the car by the way 😂 hope you had a great short break best wishes ian
These videos are very well done and quite addictive. Hats off to High Peak Autos, smart work and bloody good advertising for their business. Good luck to them.
Thanks
Mate I love each and every video you’ve ever made. Filled with honesty and integrity. I can’t wait to buy a car from you. I’d take the XC90 from you if it was priced around the £2K mark but I have to justify buying another SUV to myself as well 😂
Probably the only honest car dealer in Britain.
Great video as always Matt, I'd definitely buy a car from you, there's not many dealers out there who would do what you do to bring a car to a decent standard, for example, gearbox service and cam belt, let alone changing bushes, refurbishment of alloys etc. You're a long way from me and at the moment I'm not looking for a replacement car, however when I do I'll be looking at your stock. In the meantime I'm going to enjoy your videos and continue to recommend the good work that you do 👍😀
I bought my 2004 2.4d xc90 with 100k on the clock in November last year. Not missed a beat. Failed its MOT on a indicator bulb not correct colour as foil was peeling(which took 5 mins to sort out). It is honestly one of the nicest cars I have driven and a perfect family car.
I really enjoyed this especially as I was interested as you had previous expressed your dislike for them. I have an IX35 and will need something bigger in the next 12 months I think something like the XC90 will do nicely on a tight budget. School runs and camping weekends for a family of 5 and a dog.
I still dont like them but for this kind of money, it doesnt really matter
@@HighPeakAutosAnother year passed for the IX35. Still looking for a bigger car but not ready yet.
Love these old Volvo's. I just picked up an 04 with 170,000 kms for $5,000 aud. We wanted a runaround for our country property. Serviced by a Sydney Volvo main dealer for 10 years followed by specialists with a new belt change recently.
Considering this car was over 75K new in Aus, I do believe they're a bargain if loved.
Good luck with the sale!
Great video, had the same 2005 model when my children where younger back in 2006. T6 model, great power, great seats. With the AWD and 2 turbos I traded it as it approached the end of its factory warranty (50,000 miles). Always regretted that. Don’t miss the ex though🤣🤣🤣
I wouldn't regret that one. The T6s were plagued with transmission issues. Which is rather sad, since the T6 engine was surprisingly great. Just a shame that they put a junk GM transmission behind it.
I once knew a guy who had an early model Hyundai i30 hit him head on at 30mph (around 70kmh). He got out of his 2009 XC90 with no physical injury whatsoever beside a sore wrist and a slight pain in his shoulder, his car had two smashed headlights, smashed grille, a twisted bonnet, large crack in the windscreen and the bumper bar was destroyed but it was still able to drive away. The young guy in the i30 who had fallen asleep at the wheel and came at my friend on the wrong side of the road will be spending the rest of his life in a wheelchair and his car was a write-off. Trust me, the XC90 is a road tank.
I debated between this and a newer Land Cruiser recently and went for the LC in the end as despite its old fashioned nature, it’s at least got the balls when it comes to dealing with our rural location and the landscape of our farm compared to the Volvo. That said, the XC90 would probably do 85% of the same job.
Thanks for a great video. It's refreshing to see that not all used car dealers are 'shady'. We were not massive fans of Volvo until we bought an 11 plate XC90 (in 2017) for an absolute song. We're now on our 3rd. Not sure I agree about the driving manners, but I guess that's personal opinion (which is always worth exactly what you pay for it 😉).
Based on this video (which is the first of yours that I've seen) if I was in the market I'd bite your arm off for that car - but I'm sure it's sold already.
Thanks again, I'm off to subscribe and check out your other deals.
Well Matt if I was looking to purchase a car and not a brand new overly expensive car or an equally overly expensive EV, I'd happily take that one off your hands. Even though I'd pay out more than double what my Fiesta costs per year and diesel costs more than petrol but with my own number plate added I'd say £2,500 is a reasonable price to pay for a car that could easily be converted and by that I mean the back seats taken out and the space used for sleeping and cooking in.
But do I want it, hand on heart ???? Unsure.......
Got a 2003 Volvo XC90 bought it second hand 5 years now more than 180,000 miles never needs more work than the typical oil change break pads, love it
Another Volvo success story. Got a V70 with the 5 pot engine in. Just goes on and on and on, every day, whatever is chucked at it. You could drive through a thermo nuclear war and all it would say on the dash is check side light. The best. End of.
So many good, inexpensive, tough and practical old SUVs floating around. I like the seating position and the higher seat for getting in and out too, I couldn't go back to sedans. I looked at a XC90 when I shopping for my last car. Ended up with a 12 year old 4WD diesel Sorento, because I use the real 4x4 transmission on my very rough (and often muddy) steep driveway. It does the shopping, It does school runs. It does holidays to the bush and the beach. Drives like a car on the road and drives like a land rover offroad. For a few grand you can't go wrong. Whoever gets this one, happy motoring too you, don't forget to have a few adventures in it before you're old.
The alarm service required will almost certainly be a corroded contact on the horn. Clean it up so that it no longer throws a high resistance fault and you should be okay.
@ARI Red Steer I got lucky i took the battery out and cleaned the circuit board and bought a battery for a remote car site
@ARI Red Steer Correct. Common fault. Especially if it shows up on the dashboard. It is sensing low volts.
@ARI Red Steer We are talking about the same thing. The horn unit. However getting a scrap one is difficult as most of them fail at early mileages.
Transparency & Honesty. Two words sadly unknown to most used car dealers. You I would definitely buy a car from. As for the XC90, Astonishing for the money; bet the mpg figures are terrible though.
You can't go wrong with a Volvo ( it does exactly what it's says on the tin - Proper TANK ).
I have a 2005 XC70 2.5T5 and cannot find any logical reason to sell it. It is reliable, safe, comfortable and with an lpg installation quite cheap to drive. Drive it all day and you come out dapper, the seats are wonderfully comfortable. Also, since it is old, I have no worries loading it up, just as you said in the video. It's a beater but it's a luxury beater.
Keeping it alive also conserves resources and energy.
So could anyone give me one good reason to sell or scrap it? Apart from being materialistic and wanting the latest model?
Give it to some body who will keep it going
Looks great after the mini revamp. I've always liked cars with plastic cladding, ensures the car looks good many years later, having avoided parking and shopping trip dings.
Yup. Kinda why I prefer crossovers over cars. I would love a lifted wagon but no good options.
I've had a 2007 XC90 diesel for 12 years and 270,000kms later, fully serviced, it is still a very good car. It is an excellent highway car. Quiet, safe and a delight to drive with an excellent sound system and cruise control. Economy at 8L/100kms is good for a car that weighs 2.3T. What is really good about this car - everything on it works the same as when it was new. Brakes are sensational and steering predictable.
The one essential upgrade was the headlight globes. I changed to LED and WOW - did that make a difference. I also added two auxiliary LED driving lights because we live in the country where darkness is pitch black. We need plenty of light to spot wildlife. And of course I keep the headlight lenses clear using Meguiars' products.
One important point - I've always had the car serviced by a Volvo dealer simply because they connect the car to the Volvo network and run checks of updates. This can only be done by a Volvo dealer. Also, Volvo really does support their dealers so if there's a problem, Volvo will back them up.
Last year, we bought another car - a 2009 XC60 diesel for our daughter and after a full service + a few other things I wanted fixed, the car owed us AU$17,000. With only 114,000kms on it. That has turned out be a very good deal. FYI>> as I type this, similar cars but with "much higher mileage" are selling for 18k - $20,000 online. This car just had it's 135,000km service and is in excellent condition. Our daughter is buying it from us.
What is wrong with you? 168.000 miles and scrap it after one year? The engine will last most likely minimum 250.000 miles before any major fault will happen.
Great review! Love the fact that you provide all the costs incurred.
Hey up 🙏🙏
hello!
I would have snapped this up. Mainly because you are honest. Great content, keep it going.
As someone who bought an XC90 of this age in March this year, with slightly less miles on (And not any errors/warning messages) I paid £3000 for it, and I think "pup" is the best way to describe it.
Water pump failed within 2 weeks, so needed a new pump and cambelt.
But the biggest problem was blocked drainage channels underneath the windscreen so the inside effectivley turned to a fishtank at the first sign of heavy rain.
:(
Thats always the risk you take with older cars
I own a XC70 P2 D5 6sp Manual 2004MY. Turned over 214,000 this week, awesome machines and well built.
I have a XC90 D5 and bought it for the D5 engine. Mat doesn't like the sound of it but that's the famous D5 -rumble and I love it! It is a very strong and reliable motor. Before this car I had a V70 with the same motor and it had run 475000km when I sold it. The motor was still going strong.
Very nice!
Good watch, a good motor , and a half decent profit. Keep them coming High Peak...
You'll know this but check for dampness under the passenger seat . That can cause all sorts of issues with the anti lock brakes etc, all the electronic stuff is under the passenger's seat. Pull back the carpet and check. My ABS lights would come on after a mile or so. It eventually ground to a halt. It was like driving on ice, traction control kept coming on. It would reset if I turned it off and on, which I did outside the Mercedes main dealer where I traded it in . Good safe cars though.
Best compliment I can pay beyond the standard of the content of course would be that I would genuinely buy a car from you. Grrat video as always ✌️ 🙂
Wow, thanks!
Good to see it still has a dipstick, instead of a possibly malfunctioning sensor checking the oil level. And they didn't make the mistake of putting the oil filter above the alternator. Like they did on the 2 liter five cylinder diesel.
Another great job guys really enjoyed the car content and your explanation of how things pan out day to day. Brilliant effort.
Bought this car a few years ago! And i can say its the most comfortable family car ever.Its true that its not sporty, but it never wanted to be, i think it feels like a luxury yacht! Its floaty, soft, and smooth!
Im getting compliments on compliments on the comfortable seats!
Everything fits… EVERYTHING!!! there is always space left!!
I think the comfort in this car lies in the big boy yachty feeling, AND its a volvo! Its also true on the xc90. Nothing breaks! And if it does, i can fix it myself. There isn’t a place i cant reach or replace. And i have almost no tools!
Best stress less, headache less, comfy family car by far!!
( previous cars : bmw 3, audi a3, mercedes slk, VW transporter )
From Experience. Dropping a new intercooler in will transform its performance (£500). Anti skid warning usually steering angle sensor clock spring - not cheap to repair (£450). Or could be lucky and need a cheap ABS wheel sensor / ring. Might be an MOT fail though. Alarm service due (saw on start up) means corroded alarm battery. A faff to replace and corrosion means whole unit will probably need replacing (not cheap) but not an MOT failure, however will eventually set the alarm off regularly and flatten the battery unless you remove the siren fuse. Parking sensors usually fail individually (and stop them all from working) but can replace cheaply enough - fault code reader will show which one. Cambelt needs doing now and will cost £400 ish.
The previous owner probably knew the above and thought now’s the time to part ways. Shame as it will keep going well over 200k but needs £1500 spending on it to do so.
You can adjust the wheel towards you for a better seating position.
Must say the xc90 seats are sub par to the same platform s60/v70 sports seats.
That really turned out nice, liking the honesty and transparency bit… integrity is a rare commodity so badly lacking in the industry.
If that was not a Volvo that mileage would terrify me, but as you say " you do know your onions " lovely transformation, yet another great video, I really enjoy them, well done Matt !!!!!
I owned a 2007 for almost 3 years. D5 lux geartronic 2.4 5 cylinder. The thing almost ruined me. New servo tronic Bosch steering rack for £2000 fitted, labour was a nightmare then a few months later the dreaded anti skid message. I bought the Volvo dice Vida software and hardware, pointed to the Haldex module rather than the steering sensor. This was replaced at £1200 including some control unit that Volvo decided to place outside the car right next to road.... filled with mud and water. Gave it to charity for £400 and it’s now back on the road up north somewhere, was a willow green colour. We put 4 Michellin cross climates on ours and they were good tyres. Towed our horse around for a year until we bought a horse lorry, great car but fear the anti skid message !!
Brilliant! I love your reviews, your transparency, and your humour. Its about time you got an offer from Top Gear. I have a suspicion I will end up buying a car from you.
I own a 2004 t6 very nice for Canadian weather and the ride on it beats any new SUV . the most comfortable vehicle I have ever driven. Its rides like the older vehicles in the 70s . I'm 44 years of age and because of my jobs I have driven many cars but this t6 is at the top
Bought a 2004 (54) with 140k on from sytner for £1300 12 months ago and ran it round for 6 months, not a moments bother. Very reliable.
Thats good going
I'm in need of a 7 seater now after it's just been announced my family is growing by 2 haha . I'll take the xc off your hands fella . Cracking video as ever
My dad bought one last year in October. It’s a good car overall you just need to watch out to put good oil in it and replace old rubber and seals
another great honest video, pity there were not more like you
Many years ago when I used to drive a lot for my job my company always had a 'thing' for Volvos, (740 GLE estates mainly) it sort of stuck with me.... Apart from main dealer servicing costs which thankfully the company picked up, and as I like a few 4WD cars that XC90 will do a job for someone, and the day my Vitara gives up the ghost I would look for something like that as a replacement....Good on you Matt for saving another 'Beater'....Look forward to the next! 👍
Looks fantastic after the mini valet and headlight buffing. Dare I say quite classy - £2,500 and a car you could take to Alderley Edge!
If only most other car dealers were as transparent as you Matt. Great work
In Sweden minimum thread on summertires are 1.6mm, 3mm on winter.
Another one of my highly lusted after cars.
It was a toss up between XC90 or Discovery 3 and in the end I bought a 3 Series.
This XC90 looks like a bit of a bargain. You want my E91?
Not sure if another commenter has already said this, but DSTC service is probably steering angle sensor. Very common fault on these.
Love P2 Volvos, I think it's because I was surrounded by them growing up. My mother's friend had a silver T6 with the same wheels, and compared to our Toyota Highlander, I thought it was just the best thing on the road. Glad to see they're still on the roads.
Great video matt 👍 I'm a v70 owner and like the look of your xc90 great car well worth what your asking for it keep the videos coming 👍
I’ve just sold my 2009 XC90 after four years and 40k miles. I loved it but they are underpowered and the 2.4 diesel doesn’t sound anywhere as nice as the D3 & D4 2.0 5 pot diesels they put in the V50/S40/C30/C70 range. The fact that the XC90 is underpowered means that the engine has to be worked hard to move them at a decent pace, hence the intrusive noise. Still a fantastic car though.
I’ve got one 🙂
It has a tow bar, binoculars, a road atlas and it is tuned to radio 2…… it is also a seventeen year old D5 auto, but the 2006 model year with a bit more go and an extra gear in the box. It only performs holiday and day out duties, with 50k miles from spanking……. I’ve had a ludicrous number of cars prior and since, but in the 4x4 realm it’s the best so far….. my manual G Wagon was better off road, my chipped and tuned V8 Amazon was faster and my Diesel Amazon had more torque…….. but, the XC90 pulls a big German caravan, overloaded with kit, a roof box with an outboard in it, a zodiac in the boot, bikes on the back of the caravan and four people with too much stuff….. easier than any other. The five pot engine has a characterful note and sits in top on the cruise control, virtually silent, lugging all that weight.
Oh, and it wasn’t cheap to buy at 18 months old, but it was largely paid for by my Breakdown Recovery work and specifically poorly products of the Land Rover company…….. and has not cost a bean since, save normal servicing.
If you look to buy an early one, as quoted, pre 2006 are much cheaper for tax, but the 185bhp 2006 model with the better box is the one to find, hitting the market late 2005, so 55 plate…….
Lord Clarkson of Cotswolds has had many……. when he had a young family, he said he hated them, but couldn’t conceive not having one, and we all know he is never wrong. He said the Yeti was the best car…………..
………….. in the World 🌍🙂🇬🇧
Ironically, my daily driver……..
I have a 2008 d5 and I have had the anti skid error twice. Was due to a faulty steering angle sensor (300e) and a bad abs sensor (100e). The strongpoint of the gen 1 is that you have a Polo class luggage space available even with 7 people on board. Have to agree on the handling, it is not a drivers car. It is cleary built for the straight and wide 90-110kmh roads in Sweden (and the US)
Howdo Matt. Bought a manual one of these new in 2004, did almost 200k miles in 15 years, pulled a large caravan for about 40k and did my famiky proud. Only issues I had was the ABS ring (gives the faults you had) and the intercooler leaked. Seats like a sofa. Never felt tired on any kind of journey. Only changed as I fancied a newer one. Oh, and my headlights went like that too. Honesf car. Ian.
I can see someone buying this, and definitely keeping it for longer than a year or two. Bit of an upmarket brand, though certainly no Lexus or Mercedes. Might even be good enough to make it to 300,000 miles. Honestly, I wish you had a twin based here in America. Already seen a couple of cars on your channel that I'd be genuinely tempted to put in offers, if I was living near your neck of the woods.
I'd buy a car from all day long. You're right, honesty is so needed in this business.
The anti skid warning could just be a wheel sensor. Dirt cheap to fix. Mine ended up being a clock spring in the steering wheel as well as a sensor. You’ll know it’s the clock spring as it will reset when you start it but a sharp turn will set it off whereas a wheel sensor should have a permanent fault.