2018 Volvo V60 Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2018 Volvo V60 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2018 Volvo V60 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 2018 Volvo V60 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 2018 Volvo V60?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2018 Volvo V60, the first step is to check for a loose gas cap, as this is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. If the gas cap is secure, the next step involves using an OBD scanner to read any fault codes stored in the vehicle's On-Board Diagnostic system. These codes provide valuable insights into the specific problems affecting your car. Once you have the code, take the time to understand its meaning, as it can guide you toward the necessary repairs. If you decide to reset the check engine light after addressing any identified issues, remember that this should not replace a thorough diagnosis. Additionally, keep an eye on your vehicle's performance; any unusual sounds or changes in driving behavior should be noted, as they can indicate deeper issues. If the light remains on or if you're uncertain about the problem, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure your vehicle is properly diagnosed and repaired. By following these steps, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and maintain the health of your Volvo V60.

What common issues trigger the check engine light in a 2018 Volvo V60?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2018 Volvo V60, it can be a source of concern for any driver. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose, broken, or missing gas cap, which is an easy fix that can often be overlooked. Additionally, problems with the ignition cylinder may lead to irregular engine performance, prompting the light to activate. Another common issue involves the exhaust gas oxygen sensor, which can cause misfires during acceleration or at low speeds, indicating a need for attention. Emission system problems are also prevalent, as any malfunction within this system can trigger the check engine light. Lastly, the vehicle's On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system may store fault codes that range from minor issues to more serious engine or emission concerns. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding these common triggers can help in diagnosing the problem, but it is always wise to consult a mechanic for a thorough inspection if the light remains on.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2018 Volvo V60?

When the check engine light appears on your 2018 Volvo V60, it is essential to assess the situation promptly, as neglecting this warning can lead to serious consequences. The urgency of addressing the check engine light largely depends on the underlying issue; while some problems may be minor, such as a loose gas cap, others could indicate significant mechanical failures that may compromise your vehicle's safety and performance. If you experience a noticeable decline in your car's performance, it may have entered a protective "limp-mode," which is designed to prevent further damage but can limit your driving capabilities. Additionally, if the light remains consistently illuminated, it suggests that a fault code is stored in the On-Board Diagnostic system, potentially pointing to more severe engine or emission issues that require immediate attention. Recent maintenance or repairs can also trigger the check engine light, making it crucial to investigate any new symptoms to ensure your vehicle operates optimally. Ultimately, while some issues may seem trivial, it is wise to err on the side of caution; if you are uncertain about the cause of the light, consulting a professional mechanic can help diagnose the problem effectively and prevent costly repairs down the line.

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