Volvo S70 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your Volvo S70 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 Volvo S70 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 Volvo S70 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.

Troubleshooting Engine Stalling in a Volvo S70

When troubleshooting engine stalling in your Volvo S70, start with the basics to identify the root cause efficiently. Begin by checking the idle speed; if the engine stalls at stoplights or during idle, it may be running too low, possibly due to additional loads from accessories like the air conditioning. Next, inspect the fuel system by measuring the fuel rail pressure at the Schrader valve, as inadequate fuel delivery can lead to stalling. Don’t overlook the air intake system; unplugging the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor can reveal if it’s faulty, as a smoother idle when disconnected suggests it may need cleaning or replacement. Additionally, assess the electrical components by testing resistors and diodes near the capacitor, as microscopic cracks can disrupt performance. Finally, observe the engine during startup; if it coughs but smooths out, it may indicate residue issues. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve stalling problems in your Volvo S70, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

What to Check When Your Volvo S70 Engine is Stalling?

When your Volvo S70 engine begins to stall, it’s essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first areas to investigate is the fuel system; a lack of fuel or a clogged fuel filter can significantly hinder engine performance. Next, the ignition system should be examined, as worn or fouled spark plugs and damaged ignition coils can lead to misfires and stalling. Additionally, the air intake system must be checked for any obstructions that could restrict airflow, as proper air intake is crucial for engine operation. Engine sensors, particularly the mass airflow sensor, throttle position sensor, and oxygen sensor, can also contribute to stalling if they are malfunctioning. Lastly, utilizing an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes can provide valuable insights into any underlying issues. By methodically assessing these common problems, you can effectively diagnose and address the stalling issue in your Volvo S70.

Why is the Engine Stalling in a Volvo S70?

When your Volvo S70 experiences engine stalling, it’s crucial to recognize that this issue can escalate quickly if left unaddressed. Ignoring symptoms such as stalling at idle or while driving can lead to dangerous situations on the road, especially if the engine fails to respond when you need it most. Problems like a failing fuel pump or a bad fuel relay not only compromise your vehicle's performance but can also result in costly repairs if the underlying issues are not resolved promptly. Additionally, symptoms like difficulty restarting the engine or erratic behavior at low RPMs indicate that the problem may worsen over time, potentially leading to complete engine failure. By diagnosing and addressing these issues early, you not only enhance your safety but also protect your investment in the vehicle, ensuring it remains reliable for years to come. Therefore, if you notice any signs of stalling, it’s essential to take action immediately to prevent further complications and maintain the integrity of your Volvo S70.

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