2021 Volvo S90
Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data
The 2021 Volvo S90 maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Volvo S90.
For oil changes, the 2021 Volvo S90 takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 5.9 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 4, the recommended coolant is Volvo Coolant (Blue, phosphate-free), and transmission fluid is Volvo Transmission Oil. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.
When mounting wheels on the Volvo S90, torque the lug nuts to 103 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.
Owners of the 2021 Volvo S90 have reported 5 common issues including "Direct Injection Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves", "Sensus Infotainment System Reboot and Black Screen" and "Automatic Emergency Braking False Activation". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.
There are 2 NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2021 Volvo S90. Check the Recalls tab below for full details.
Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.
The 2021 Volvo S90 uses 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil (5.9 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 103 ft-lbs, takes DOT 4 brake fluid.
Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2021 Volvo S90. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.
Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2021 Volvo S90.
Common problems reported by 2021 Volvo S90 owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.
Direct Injection Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
The T5 and T6 Drive-E direct injection four-cylinder engines accumulate carbon deposits on the intake valves because there is no fuel washing the valve backsides (as in port injection systems). Over time, this reduces engine performance, causes rough idling, misfires, and hesitation during acceleration. The issue typically becomes noticeable after 40,000-60,000 miles.
Walnut shell blasting of the intake valves is the most effective cleaning method. Dealers remove the intake manifold and use specialized equipment to blast the carbon deposits from the valve surfaces. This should be performed every 40,000-60,000 miles as preventive maintenance. Chemical cleaning products offer only marginal improvement.
Est. Cost: $400 - $800Sensus Infotainment System Reboot and Black Screen
The Sensus infotainment system, which controls nearly all vehicle functions through a large portrait-oriented touchscreen, experiences random reboots, black screen events, and slow startup times. Climate controls, navigation, and the backup camera become inaccessible during system failures. The issue has been the subject of extensive NHTSA complaints.
Volvo has released multiple software updates to address Sensus stability. A full system reflash at the dealer using the latest VIDA software is recommended. If the infotainment head unit (IHU) hardware has failed, it must be replaced. Volvo recall 22V-653 covers certain Sensus failures.
Est. Cost: $0 (recall/warranty) / $1,500 - $3,500 (IHU replacement)Automatic Emergency Braking False Activation
The City Safety automatic emergency braking system brakes unexpectedly without any real obstacle, causing sudden deceleration that can startle the driver and endanger following traffic. Triggers include shadows, metal road plates, overpass structures, and parked vehicles in adjacent lanes. NHTSA investigation EA22-002 examines this issue across Volvo's SPA platform.
A software update to the Active Safety Domain Master (ASDM) module and forward camera recalibration improves the system's accuracy. If the windshield has been replaced with non-OEM glass, the camera's field of view may be distorted, requiring OEM windshield replacement and recalibration. TSB TJ35017 covers false AEB corrections.
Est. Cost: $0 - $300 (software/recalibration) / $800 - $1,200 (windshield if needed)Front Strut Mount Bearing Creaking and Noise
The front strut mount bearings develop a creaking or groaning noise when turning the steering wheel at low speeds, particularly during parking maneuvers. The noise is most prominent in cold weather and is felt through the steering column. It worsens over time and can become loud enough to be heard inside the cabin with the windows up.
Replace the front strut mount assemblies. The complete strut mount including the bearing, rubber isolator, and top plate should be replaced as a unit. A wheel alignment is required after the repair. Volvo revised the strut mount bearing design in later production.
Est. Cost: $400 - $900 (both sides including alignment)Oil Consumption on T6 Twin-Charged Engine
The T6 Drive-E engine, which combines a turbocharger and a supercharger on a 2.0L four-cylinder, can exhibit higher-than-expected oil consumption. Some owners report needing to add a quart of oil every 3,000-5,000 miles. The issue is attributed to the PCV system design and piston ring sealing under the high boost pressures generated by the twin-charging system.
Volvo has released an updated PCV valve assembly that reduces crankcase pressure and oil consumption. Dealers can perform an oil consumption test to determine if the consumption exceeds Volvo's threshold. If the PCV update does not resolve the issue, piston ring replacement may be needed in severe cases.
Est. Cost: $200 - $400 (PCV update) / $3,000 - $6,000 (piston ring replacement)2 NHTSA safety recalls for the 2021 Volvo S90. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2020-2021 S90, 2020-2022 S60, V60, XC60, XC90, and 2022 V90 plug-in hybrid vehicles. The high-voltage battery may experience a short circuit within the battery module when the battery is fully charged and the vehicle is parked.
A short circuit in a high-voltage battery increases the risk of a fire.
Owners are advised not to charge their vehicles until the remedy has been completed. Dealers will inspect and replace the high-voltage battery module as necessary. In addition, dealers will update the software to monitor the battery. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 28, 2025. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10312.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021 S90L, 2020-2021 XC60, and XC90 vehicles. An improperly welded rotor and shaft may separate within the integrated brake system.
Separation of the rotor and shaft may cause a reduction in braking assistance and a loss of the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the hydraulic unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 22, 2021. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-888-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10120.