2017 Volvo S90 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2017 Volvo S90: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2017 Volvo S90 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 2017 Volvo S90 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 2017 Volvo S90?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Volvo S90, the first step is to visually inspect the gas cap, ensuring it is securely tightened and free from damage, as this common issue can often trigger the warning light. Next, take a moment to check your dashboard for any additional warning indicators or messages that might offer further insight into the problem. If the light persists, utilizing an OBD-II diagnostic scanner is a crucial step; this tool connects to your vehicle's onboard system and retrieves error codes that can help identify the specific issue at hand. Pay attention to any unusual symptoms your vehicle may be exhibiting, such as rough idling or poor acceleration, as these can provide valuable context for your diagnosis. Finally, consulting your owner's manual can offer guidance on what the check engine light signifies and suggest appropriate next steps. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed action towards resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 Volvo S90?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2017 Volvo S90, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems that may cause this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can easily be checked and tightened to see if the light turns off. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which affects the air-fuel mixture and can lead to decreased fuel efficiency. If the catalytic converter is malfunctioning, it may also trigger the light, indicating a need for further inspection. Additionally, problems with the mass airflow sensor can disrupt engine performance, while worn-out spark plugs or a faulty ignition coil can lead to misfires, both of which are relatively straightforward to replace. Vacuum leaks can also cause the check engine light to illuminate, as they disrupt the air-fuel ratio, and issues with the EGR valve can lead to emissions problems. By being aware of these potential issues, you can take the first steps toward diagnosing the problem and deciding whether a DIY fix is feasible or if professional assistance is needed.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2017 Volvo S90?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2017 Volvo S90, it is crucial to understand the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signifies potential issues within your vehicle's engine or emissions system that could range from minor to severe. Ignoring this alert can lead to more significant problems, including costly repairs and diminished vehicle performance. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can help identify the underlying issue. While some triggers, like a loose gas cap, may be easily resolved, others could indicate more serious malfunctions that require professional attention. Given the advanced diagnostic systems in modern vehicles, addressing the check engine light promptly not only safeguards your car's reliability but also enhances your understanding of its mechanics, making it a worthwhile endeavor for any DIYer.

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