Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Brand Perception:
Known for safety, Scandinavian design, and comfortable interiors.
Key Competitors 2006:
Acura MDX, BMW X5, Lexus RX 330, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Audi Q7
Safety Focus:
Volvo's core brand tenet, with advanced safety features for its time.
Versatility:
Three-row seating capability, ample cargo space, and comfortable for family transport.
Design:
Distinctive Scandinavian styling, prioritizing clean lines and functional elegance.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, fuel system basics, cooling system, exhaust system overview
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system operation, driveline components overview
Chassis:
Braking system operation, steering system overview, suspension system overview
Electrical:
Lighting systems, instrument cluster, dashboard indicators, audio system operation, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), climate control system operation, basic fuse information
Safety Systems:
Airbag system operation, seatbelt usage, child restraint system installation, ABS/Traction Control/Stability Control indicators and basic function
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control operation, seat adjustments, interior features, exterior features (doors, tailgate, roof rails), keyless entry, cruise control
Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, driving controls, parking, using transmission modes, operating lights, wipers, horn, climate control
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, tire rotation basics, changing wiper blades, bulb replacement procedures (basic), refueling procedures
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and indicators, basic problem diagnosis (e.g., battery issues, fluid leaks), emergency procedures (e.g., flat tire, overheating)
Safety:
Proper use of safety belts, child seat installation guidelines, airbag system precautions, advice for driving in adverse weather conditions
Depth:
Consumer-level, focusing on safe operation and routine user maintenance. Does not cover advanced diagnostics or component-level repair.
Engine Code:
B6294FS (2.9L Turbocharged Inline-6)
Displacement:
2922 cc (2.9 Liters)
Configuration:
Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC, 4 Valves per Cylinder, Turbocharged
Horsepower:
268 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 1800-5000 rpm
Injection:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Alternative Engine Code:
B5254T2 (2.5L Turbocharged Inline-5)
Displacement Alt:
2521 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower Alt:
208 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque Alt:
236 lb-ft @ 1500-4500 rpm
ECU:
Bosch Motronic ME7.0
Type:
Geartronic™ Automatic
Number Of Gears:
5-Speed (AW55-50SN/AW55-51SN for 5-cyl, AW30-43LE for 6-cyl)
Type Opt:
N/A (Automatic was standard across most markets for XC90 in 2006)
Geartronic:
Manual shift mode for driver engagement.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Volvo recommends JWS 3309 (e.g., ATF T-IV) or equivalent.
Length:
4801 mm (189.0 in)
Height:
1744 mm (68.7 in)
Wheelbase:
2870 mm (113.0 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 200 mm (7.9 in)
Seating Capacity:
7 Passengers (Standard 3-row configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 16.1 cu ft (456 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 43.4 cu ft (1229 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approximately 75.9 cu ft (2150 L)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 4,400 - 4,700 lbs (2000 - 2130 kg) depending on engine and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approximately 5,997 - 6,173 lbs (2720 - 2800 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3300 lbs (1500 kg) with trailer brakes
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover:
4 Stars (estimated for this era)
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (ESC)
Anti-Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
All-Wheel Drive:
Standard (AWD system, often with electronically controlled clutch)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, Inflatable Curtain (IC) airbags for all three rows.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and load limiters on front seats, all seating positions equipped with 3-point seatbelts.
Whiplash Protection:
WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) in front seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Audio System:
Premium sound systems available (e.g., Dynaudio), often with CD player, radio (AM/FM), and auxiliary input.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system with integrated screen.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking sensors.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone integration available on later production models or as an aftermarket add-on.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Volvo recommends synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Replace iridium spark plugs every 100,000 miles.
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Inline-6 engine uses a timing chain (typically requires inspection but not periodic replacement). Inline-5 engine (in some markets/trims) uses a timing belt, recommended replacement every 105,000 miles or 7 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (API SM or higher).
Engine Oil Capacity:
7.4 quarts (7.0 liters) for the 2.9L Inline-6; 5.9 quarts (5.6 liters) for the 2.5L Inline-5.
Coolant Type:
Volvo recommends Volvo Coolant (or equivalent meeting Volvo's specifications, typically a long-life G48 or similar ethylene glycol-based coolant with a specific additive package).
Brake Fluid Type:
SAE J1703 FMVSS 116 DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Volvo recommends Volvo Power Steering Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S (green fluid).
Common Issues Powertrain:
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system solenoids and actuators can leak or fail, leading to rough idle and check engine lights. Ignition coil failures are also common. Turbocharger hoses can degrade and leak boost pressure.
Common Issues Drivetrain:
AWD system angle gear/bevel gear leaks and failures. Transmission control module (TCM) issues or solenoid pack failures can cause shifting problems.
Common Issues Chassis Suspension:
Front control arm bushings and ball joints can wear prematurely. Rear shock absorbers can leak.
Common Issues Electrical Electronics:
CEM (Central Electronic Module) issues can cause a multitude of electrical gremlins. ABS/DSTC module failures. Window regulator failures. SRS (Airbag) warning light issues related to wiring or modules.
Common Issues HVAC:
EGR valve issues (on some engines), radiator hose leaks, blower motor resistor failure.
Brand Legacy:
Volvo Car Corporation, founded in 1927, is Swedish and renowned globally for its commitment to safety, quality, and durability.
Xc90 Introduction:
The XC90 was Volvo's first-ever SUV, introduced in 2002 for the 2003 model year. It was designed from the ground up with safety and practicality in mind.
First Generation Platform:
Based on Volvo's P2 platform, shared with other Volvo models like the S80, S60, V70, and XC70.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized distinctive Volvo design cues, integrating SUV capabilities with sedan-like comfort and safety.
Manufacturing Location:
Torslanda Plant, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Model Lifespan Gen1:
2003-2014 (with significant updates but remaining on the P2 platform until the second generation).
Car And Driver Best SUVs:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best SUVs list in 2003 and 2004.
North American Truck Of The Year:
Won North American Truck of the Year at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show.
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Received 'Good' ratings in IIHS front and side impact tests, and a 'Good' rating for head restraints and seats, contributing to its strong safety reputation.
🏆 Professional Vehicle Manual Information
Comprehensive technical documentation for maintenance, repair, and operation