u/AbsoluteThunderCunt

Hey everyone,

I recently purchased a 2023 Volvo XC90 T8 (on the Google infotainment platform) with about 35k miles on the odometer. The previous owner installed an aftermarket (non-OEM) trailer hitch. This raised a few immediate red flags for me, as I know too well how overly confident some people get regarding towing capacities and hybrid setups.

To be extra cautious, I am planning to do a complete fluid service, meaning I will be changing the engine oil, brakes, transmission fluid, and the ERAD fluid too. I know how to manually reset the standard dashboard maintenance light for the engine oil and brakes. However, I know the Transmission Control Module (TCM) tracks fluid degradation over time, and the hybrid ERAD system requires a module reset when fresh fluid is added.

Are there any reliable, consumer-grade bidirectional OBD2 scan tools (like Autel, Launch, Foxwell, etc.) that you have personally verified can perform the Volvo transmission and ERAD oil counter resets? Or is this still strictly locked down to Volvo's proprietary VIDA software at the dealership?

I would love to buy an aftermarket tool to handle this myself rather than paying dealership diagnostic rates just to plug in a computer.

Thanks in advance.

I live in Chula Vista, CA, and I’m trying to install a NEMA 14-50 outlet in my garage for a Level 2 EV charger. My electrical panel is on the other side of the garage wall, so the idea is to add a new breaker, run a short dedicated 240V circuit, and install the NEMA 14-50 receptacle nearby.

Every licensed electrician I’ve contacted keeps telling me “you don’t need a permit” or “it’s not necessary.” But as soon as I mention that I do want it permitted, they either push back or stop replying. One even asked me to get the permit myself and they’ll handle the installation….. what?! that’s what I’m hiring them for!

If I don’t get the permit, doesn’t that put me in an awkward situation where they could do whatever low quality work that’s not up to code?

From what I’ve read, a new 240V circuit/outlet for EV charging should be permitted and inspected, especially since it’s a dedicated high-load circuit. I’m also thinking about liability: if there’s ever an electrical fire or insurance claim, I don’t want unpermitted work to become a problem.

So I’m trying to understand:

- Am I correct that this should be permitted in Chula Vista / California?
- Why would electricians be so resistant to pulling a permit for a simple NEMA 14-50 install?
- Is this usually because of cost, inspection risk, license issues, load calculation concerns, or just avoiding paperwork?
- Should I only hire someone who’s willing to pull the permit, or is there some nuance I’m missing?

I’m not trying to make this harder than it needs to be. I just want the work done correctly, safely, and in a way that won’t cause issues later.

Is there a way to recalibrate or adjust the lane centering active steering assistance? I feel it hugs the right side and I tend to be pulling it left.

What’s the best time to use charge mode? I feel that the answer is “never” because it’s more inefficient than letting the car go into Hybrid naturally when the battery is “depleted”.

If so, what’s the benefit of charge mode?

I live in So Cal (US). I have an XC90 T8 Ultimate.

What’s the best place to order parts online? Like cabin/engine air filter, etc? I’m looking for OEM or maybe also some recommendations for non-OEM but still OEM-like parts.

I’m a DIYer and would like to know the best place to do order parts. This is my first Volvo.

Thoughts? Tips?

Recently got a 2023 XC90 T8, my first Volvo. Even in bright daylight with the light switch set to "Auto," I have a green light icon lit up on the dash. Does this just mean the Auto system is active, or are my actual headlights stuck on?

I often travel on rough roads and I’m debating two options to soften the ride on my 2023 XC90 T8 Ultimate (275/40R21):

1. Downsizing to 20-inch wheels with 275/45R20 tires. But I'm hesitant about the cost and losing that "Ultimate" curb appeal.
2. Beefing up the current rims with 275/45R21 tires. But I’m worried the 3.7% diameter increase might mess with the CPO warranty or safety sensors.

Both add an extra ~14mm of sidewall which should smooth the rides a bit.

Thoughts? Has anyone made the jump from 21s to 20s? Was the comfort boost worth the price of new wheels? If you have photos of an Ultimate trim on 20s, please share!

I ordered a Ford Maverick about a month ago (will be my first ever Ford), and I kid you not, my "algorithm" everywhere went from woodworking/tools to "did you get a lemon!?", "are you a Ford owner!?", "yes! you can get your money back!", "if you purchased a lemon in California..."

Anyone else had this same experience?