2012 Volvo S60 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2012 Volvo S60 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
0%
15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
0%
55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2012 Volvo S60 engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
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 2012 Volvo S60 engine is stalling?

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.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

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.

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 diagnostic steps should be taken to address the stalling issue in a 2012 Volvo S60?

To effectively diagnose and resolve stalling issues in your 2012 Volvo S60, begin with a methodical approach that emphasizes the use of specific diagnostic tools. Start by locating the vehicle's diagnostic port, typically found under the dashboard, and connect a compatible scanner. This will allow you to retrieve error codes that can pinpoint potential problems. Once you have the codes, focus on the Idle Air Control Valve (IAC), as a clogged IAC can significantly impact engine performance and lead to stalling. Cleaning or replacing this valve may resolve the issue. Additionally, pay close attention to any sensor failures indicated by the diagnostic tool, as these can also contribute to stalling. Addressing faulty sensors promptly is crucial to prevent further engine complications. By following these steps, you can systematically identify and rectify the stalling issue, ensuring your Volvo S60 runs smoothly and efficiently.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2012 Volvo S60?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 2012 Volvo S60, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One frequent culprit is a dirty or faulty Idle Air Control Valve (IAC), which regulates airflow into the engine during idling; if it malfunctions, it can lead to stalling or rough idling. Additionally, vacuum leaks in the intake manifold can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, causing performance issues. Another critical factor is the camshaft position timing on bank 1; if this is off, it can severely impact engine performance. Furthermore, a faulty knock sensor or related wiring issues can lead to engine detonation and overheating, which may also trigger stalling. Lastly, software problems within the Engine Control Module (ECM) can create erratic engine behavior. Addressing these issues promptly is vital for maintaining the vehicle's performance and preventing further damage.

How urgent is it to address the stalling engine in a 2012 Volvo S60?

Addressing a stalling engine in a 2012 Volvo S60 is crucial due to the immediate safety risks and potential for more extensive damage if left unresolved. When the engine stalls, it can occur unexpectedly at any speed, which not only endangers the driver and passengers but also poses a threat to other road users. The underlying causes of stalling, such as a malfunctioning Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), clogged Idle Air Control (IAC) valve, or dirty fuel injectors, can lead to further complications if not addressed promptly. Ignoring these symptoms may result in costly repairs down the line, as issues with fuel delivery or air-fuel mixture can escalate into significant engine damage. Therefore, it is essential for DIY enthusiasts to prioritize diagnosing and fixing the stalling issue to ensure both the safety and longevity of their vehicle.

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