2011 / XC90 / 3.2 B6324S / 2WD / 90K miles

Daughter has had car since new, with a comparatively low total of 90K miles. Followed on-time Regular service schedule, all performed by local Volvo dealer.

CEL illuminated yesterday and after a drive-by Volvo dealer's check, the Code is Defective Cat. She's taking the car back today for a more complete diagnosis.

This car is one of the 3.2 XC90s that had well-documented extreme oil consumption problems. Finally Volvo relented and authorized a warranty engine overhaul (new pistons, rings etc.) about two years ago.

Would we expect the Cats (there are two in this model- $2K each, another $1K labor) to go longer than 90K?

I have a theory though: The excessive oil consumption flowing through the exhaust system for years and until engine overhaul, prematurely contaminated and damaged the catalytic converters.

Any thoughts?

p.s. Our one-owner 2000 V70 with 272K miles is still running on the original Cat. Maybe on borrowed time, but I'd call that a success story.

Using dealers for diagnostics is great, until the warranty expires. After that, few should all look for a good independent.

Yes, there is a specific code that indicates the CAT is defective. But it is rare to be the only code.


Tasca Volvo in RI has the 'pair' for $1500. And $1,000 for labor is a bit much for a 2 hour job. Of course, there would also be 4 O2 sensors and 3 gaskets...

I would find a good Indie and ask him to check the O2 sensors before spending $2,000. The sensors can be monitored on a good scanner.

You are correct about contaminating the CAT with oil, but that should burn off after a few miles. Remember, the CAT gets extremely hot.
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Keeping it running is better than buying new