2013 Volvo S60 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2013 Volvo S60 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2013 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 2013 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 are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a 2013 Volvo S60 experiencing engine stalling?

When troubleshooting engine stalling in your 2013 Volvo S60, start by checking the Check Engine Light, as its illumination often signals underlying issues. Pay attention to any rough idling, particularly during stops or starts, as this can indicate a problem with the engine's performance. Next, utilize a scan tool to read the diagnostic trouble codes from the instrument cluster module; these codes can provide specific insights into what might be malfunctioning. It's also essential to inspect the vehicle's sensors, as sensor failures are common culprits behind stalling. Additionally, examine the instrument cluster for any defects or warning lights, since some Volvo models have reported issues in this area. If you discover any faulty sensors, addressing these promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to the engine. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the stalling and take the necessary steps to resolve it.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2013 Volvo S60?

When troubleshooting engine stalling issues in a 2013 Volvo S60, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting performance. One of the primary culprits is a dirty or faulty Idle Air Control Valve (IAC), which plays a critical role in regulating airflow at idle. If this valve is compromised, it can disrupt the engine's ability to maintain a steady idle, leading to stalling. Additionally, vacuum leaks in the intake manifold can create an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture, further exacerbating stalling issues. Another significant factor is the crankshaft position sensor; if this sensor fails, it can send incorrect data to the Engine Control Unit (ECU), resulting in misfires or complete stalling. Lastly, it's crucial to pay attention to any vibrations while driving, as these can indicate underlying mechanical problems that, if left unaddressed, may culminate in engine stalling. By identifying and rectifying these issues promptly, you can help ensure the smooth operation of your Volvo S60 and prevent future stalling incidents.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2013 Volvo S60?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2013 Volvo S60 is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls, especially while driving, it can lead to dangerous situations on the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this problem can result in more severe engine damage, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. A common cause of engine stalling is a faulty crankshaft position sensor, which, if left unchecked, can exacerbate engine issues and lead to misfires, rough idling, and decreased fuel efficiency. Additionally, the illumination of the Check Engine Light serves as a critical warning sign that should not be ignored. By addressing the stalling issue promptly, you not only ensure your safety but also protect your vehicle from further complications and maintain its overall performance.

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