2018 Volvo V90 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2018 Volvo V90: 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 2018 Volvo V90 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 V90 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 V90?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2018 Volvo V90, the first step is to check the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable cause of the warning. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that may offer further insights into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is crucial; it allows you to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer, which can significantly narrow down the issue. Additionally, inspect under the hood for any visible signs of damage, such as frayed wires or loose connections, which could indicate a more serious problem. Finally, monitor your vehicle's performance for any irregularities like rough idling or decreased fuel efficiency, as these symptoms can provide valuable context for diagnosing the issue. By systematically following these steps, you can effectively gather the necessary information to address the check engine light and potentially resolve the issue on your own.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2018 Volvo V90?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2018 Volvo V90, it can signal a range of issues that are often manageable for DIY enthusiasts. One of the simplest problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system and is easily rectified by ensuring the cap is securely fastened. Another common culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can affect fuel efficiency and emissions; replacing this sensor can often be done with basic tools. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter may arise, indicating a need for more in-depth diagnostics or replacement. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can also trigger the light, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture. Spark plug and ignition coil problems are frequent as well, leading to engine misfires that can illuminate the check engine light. If you experience an engine misfire, it’s essential to inspect these components, as they are relatively straightforward to replace. While some of these issues can be addressed at home, it’s always wise to consult a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnosis if the light persists, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2018 Volvo V90?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2018 Volvo V90, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that there may be underlying issues with your vehicle's engine or emissions system that require immediate attention. Ignoring this signal can lead to more severe problems, including costly repairs and diminished vehicle performance. For DIY enthusiasts, it is crucial to understand that continuing to drive with the check engine light on can result in reduced fuel efficiency and may even pose safety risks if the issue escalates. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct a thorough diagnostic check as soon as possible, either through an OBD-II scanner or by consulting a qualified mechanic. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you can prevent further damage, maintain optimal performance, and ensure a safer driving experience.

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