Volvo S60 Has Rough Idle

Common Causes of Rough Idling in Your Volvo S60 and How to Resolve Them for a Smoother Drive

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Volvo S60 has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
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 Volvo S60 has rough idle?

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.

Brake caliper failure occurs in two different ways, and they create different symptoms.

The caliper can become stuck, in which case it won't release the brake pads. The seized caliper will cause the vehicle to brake constantly on one side, forcing the car to move toward that side. This pulling will be accompanied by a strong odor from one wheel.

Another way calipers fail is by leaking. If the caliper leaks, the brake pedal will feel too easy to push, and will sink all the way to the floor when held. Braking will become less effective the longer this goes on. There may also be brake fluid leaking onto the wheel.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Brake rotors are mainly maintenance free, but when they have been subjected to abnormally hard use, the heat they absorb can cause the metal to turn blue, and cracking to occur. When this occurs, customers often specify they have lost braking power, or the vehicle's brakes are making noise. There may be no symptoms at all related to changing the brake rotors, since it is recommended to change brake rotors on most modern vehicles when performing a standard brake service.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle in a Volvo S60

When troubleshooting a rough idle in your Volvo S60, it's essential to adopt a diagnostic approach that prioritizes simplicity and efficiency. Begin by inspecting for vacuum leaks, as these are often the most straightforward issues to identify and can significantly impact engine performance. Next, examine the condition of your spark plugs; worn or faulty plugs can lead to misfires and rough idling. If these initial checks do not resolve the problem, utilize a diagnostic tool like VIDA to scan for fault codes, which can provide valuable insights into underlying issues. Additionally, consider cleaning the throttle body, as a buildup of carbon can disrupt airflow and affect idle quality. Monitoring Short Term Fuel Trim (STFT) values can also help pinpoint fuel delivery problems that may contribute to rough idling. If you notice surging idle when the engine is cold, inspecting the CVVT hub may be necessary. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the causes of rough idle, enhancing your vehicle's performance while gaining valuable hands-on experience.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle Issues in a Volvo S60

When dealing with rough idle issues in your Volvo S60, it's essential to understand the common problems that may be at play. One of the primary culprits is vacuum leaks, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to unstable engine performance. Inspecting the vacuum lines for any signs of wear or damage is a crucial first step. Additionally, worn or faulty spark plugs can significantly impact engine smoothness; therefore, checking their condition and replacing them if necessary can help restore proper idle. In certain model years, particularly 2003 and 2004, the fuel pressure sensor may also malfunction, sending incorrect signals to the Engine Control Module and causing rough idling. Cleaning the throttle body and Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) is another effective DIY task that can enhance engine performance by ensuring these components are free from contaminants. Furthermore, testing the ignition coils and the CVVT solenoid can reveal hidden issues that might not trigger error codes but still affect engine operation. For a more thorough diagnosis, utilizing professional tools like VIDA-DICE or a reliable OBD scanner can help pinpoint specific faults, allowing you to address the root cause of the rough idle effectively. By systematically checking these common problems, you can take significant steps toward resolving idle issues in your Volvo S60.

Why is My Volvo S60 Idling Rough and What Should I Do?

When your Volvo S60 is idling roughly, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid potential safety hazards and costly repairs. Ignoring symptoms like a shaky engine can lead to more significant problems, such as engine misfires or fuel system failures, which may compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Common causes of rough idling include vacuum leaks, faulty spark plugs, and a dirty idle control valve, all of which can disrupt the engine's normal operation. If left unchecked, these issues can escalate, leading to engine damage or decreased fuel efficiency. Therefore, it’s essential to take immediate action by inspecting and cleaning components like the Mass Airflow Sensor and throttle body, as well as checking for vacuum leaks. By addressing these concerns early, you can ensure your Volvo S60 runs smoothly and safely, preventing further complications down the road.

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Volvo S60 Rough Idle Causes & Repair Costs | RepairPal