2020 Volvo V90 Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2020 Volvo V90 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2020 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 2020 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 2020 Volvo V90?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Volvo V90, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might offer further insights into the problem. A visual inspection of the engine can also be beneficial; look for any obvious signs of damage, such as frayed wires or fluid leaks. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer system can provide specific information about the underlying problem. Finally, consulting your owner's manual can help you understand the implications of the check engine light and suggest appropriate next steps. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the issue, potentially saving time and money on repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Volvo V90?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2020 Volvo V90, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. Understanding the common problems that may cause this warning light to illuminate is essential for effective troubleshooting. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can lead to fuel vapors escaping and is easily rectified by ensuring the cap is securely fastened. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency and emissions; replacing this sensor can often restore optimal performance. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can trigger the light, indicating a need for further inspection. Spark plug or ignition coil issues can also lead to engine performance problems, making it crucial to check these components if the light appears. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, while an engine misfire, often caused by bad spark plugs or fuel injectors, can also illuminate the check engine light. Lastly, a faulty EGR valve can lead to emissions issues, warranting attention. By familiarizing yourself with these common problems, you can take the first steps toward diagnosing and potentially fixing the issue yourself, saving time and money in the process.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Volvo V90?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Volvo V90, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning signal is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that your vehicle's onboard diagnostics have detected a potential issue that could affect engine performance or emissions. Ignoring this light can lead to more severe problems, such as engine misfires or malfunctioning sensors, which may result in costly repairs and decreased vehicle safety. For DIY enthusiasts, while it may be tempting to delay addressing the light, doing so can exacerbate the underlying issue, leading to further damage that could compromise the vehicle's reliability. Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced diagnostic systems that can help identify the specific problem, making it easier for you to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue yourself. However, if the problem persists or if you're unsure about the diagnosis, seeking professional assistance is advisable to ensure your vehicle remains safe and efficient on the road.

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