Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Mk1

The EX90 runs on Google's Android Automotive OS (AAOS), and early models have been widely reported to suffer from frozen or black screens, random mid-drive reboots, apps crashing, slow UI response, and intermittent loss of features including climate control, streaming, and navigation. One owner documented spending over 70 days in the shop during their first eight months of ownership. Volvo has acknowledged the issue publicly, with the CEO apologizing to customers. Most problems are addressed through OTA updates (free) or dealer-applied software patches, but some require the full core computer replacement. For 2025 models, Volvo is offering a free upgrade to the 2026-spec dual Nvidia DRIVE AGX Orin computer. Without this upgrade, future OTA updates will not be available. If purchased outside warranty, dealer diagnostic time and software interventions can cost €150-300 per visit. Severe cases requiring computer module replacement could cost €1,000-1,500 out of warranty.

The GHCA (Grid to High Voltage Converter A) module is responsible for all AC charging. Multiple owners on the EX90 Forum and in NHTSA complaints have reported complete AC charging failure, with some experiencing two consecutive module failures within weeks of repair. Symptoms include the car refusing to charge on any Level 2 charger, charging showing 0 kW, or sessions stopping prematurely. The replacement module is a genuine Volvo part (32406411), and some dealers have reported sourcing delays. Under warranty, the replacement is free, but out of warranty the module plus labor is estimated at €800-2,000. Volvo has reportedly updated to a revised MY26 version of the module. DC fast charging is typically unaffected, as it bypasses the onboard charger.

Digital key problems have been among the most common and frustrating EX90 complaints. Owners report that the phone-as-key function stops working without warning, key cards fail to be recognized, key fobs become unresponsive, and starting the vehicle can take several minutes of repeated attempts. The core computer upgrade for 2025 models addresses many of these issues. Software updates have improved stability, but the problem persists for some owners. Costs are typically limited to dealer diagnostics (€100-200 per visit) and key re-pairing, though persistent issues requiring hardware replacement (antenna modules, key readers) can reach €300-500.

Early EX90s exhibited unusually high phantom drain, with Volvo warning some owners to expect around 3% battery loss per 24 hours. This is caused by the core computer remaining active rather than entering deep sleep mode. Over a week of parking, this can mean losing 20% or more of range. The core computer upgrade and subsequent OTA updates have improved sleep behavior significantly. The direct cost is in wasted electricity (minor) but can also accelerate 12V battery wear. If the 12V battery drains completely, the vehicle can become unresponsive, requiring roadside assistance (€100-300 depending on situation).

Multiple owners report that Pilot Assist (Volvo's highway driving aid) deactivates unexpectedly on highways, collision avoidance triggers false warnings in normal city driving, and lane departure warnings fire on straight roads. Some owners have also experienced parking sensor faults appearing shortly after delivery. The LiDAR sensor, which was standard on 2024-2025 models but did not initially serve any active function, adds complexity. Volvo has dropped LiDAR from 2026 models entirely. Most ADAS issues are resolved through software calibration at the dealer (€0-200 under warranty, €200-500 outside). Persistent sensor hardware faults (camera modules, ultrasonic sensors) can cost €300-800 to replace.

The EX90 offers optional air suspension (standard on Ultra trim). Based on Volvo's track record with air suspension on the XC90 SPA platform, common failures include air spring leaks (typically after 60,000-80,000 km), compressor wear, and ride height sensor faults. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, a hissing sound from the compressor area, or suspension warning messages. A single air spring replacement costs approximately €500-800 including labor. Compressor replacement runs €600-1,000. Full system overhaul with multiple components can reach €2,000-3,000. Cars without air suspension (standard steel springs with adaptive dampers) avoid this risk entirely.

Several EX90 owners have reported that the electric seat belt pretensioners suddenly tighten during normal driving, without any collision threat. This appears to be linked to the collision avoidance system sending false signals to the restraint system. The pretensioners should auto-reset after activation, but some require manual unbuckling and re-buckling. Persistent cases have required dealer software recalibration (€100-200) or replacement of the pretensioner module (€300-600). The issue has been addressed in later software updates.