2018 Volvo S60 Cross Country Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2018 Volvo S60 Cross Country

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Volvo S60 Cross Country has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2018 Volvo S60 Cross Country has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2018 Volvo S60 Cross Country?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2018 Volvo S60 Cross Country, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might offer further insight into the issue. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can direct you to the underlying problem. Additionally, examining the condition of your spark plugs is vital, as worn plugs can contribute to engine performance issues. Don't forget to check the levels of essential fluids like oil and coolant, as low levels can lead to significant engine complications. Finally, inspect the wiring and connections under the hood for any signs of damage or corrosion, as faulty wiring can also activate the check engine light. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed action to resolve the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2018 Volvo S60 Cross Country?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2018 Volvo S60 Cross Country, it can be concerning, but understanding the common problems that may cause this alert can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can allow fuel vapors to escape and trigger the light. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a critical role in measuring unburned oxygen in the exhaust; if it fails, it can negatively impact both fuel efficiency and emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can also illuminate the check engine light, as this component is essential for reducing harmful emissions. The mass airflow sensor, responsible for monitoring air intake to optimize fuel injection, can malfunction and affect engine performance, leading to the same warning. Lastly, issues with spark plugs or ignition coils can cause engine misfires, prompting the check engine light to activate. By being aware of these potential problems, you can take the first steps toward diagnosing and addressing the issue, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

What are the potential risks and necessary actions for addressing the check engine light in a 2018 Volvo S60 Cross Country?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2018 Volvo S60 Cross Country, it is crucial to act swiftly to avoid serious consequences. Ignoring this warning can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, engine damage, or even create safety hazards while driving. One of the first steps you can take is to check the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit for triggering the light. If the gas cap is secure, using an OBD-II scanner to read the error codes can provide valuable insights into the specific issue at hand. Depending on the codes retrieved, you may find that the problem is minor, such as a faulty sensor, or more severe, requiring immediate attention. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to prevent further damage and ensure your vehicle operates safely. If you are uncertain about the diagnosis or repair process, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable. Additionally, maintaining a regular service schedule for your Volvo can help prevent future occurrences of the check engine light, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

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2018 Volvo S60 Cross Country Check Engine Light Guide