2022 Volvo XC40 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2022 Volvo XC40: Common Causes and Solutions

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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 2022 Volvo XC40 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 2022 Volvo XC40 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 2022 Volvo XC40?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2022 Volvo XC40, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to effectively identify the underlying issue. Begin by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, take a moment to review your dashboard for any additional warning indicators or messages that may offer further insights into the problem. If these initial checks do not reveal the issue, utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial next step. This tool connects to your vehicle's diagnostic port and retrieves error codes that can help pinpoint the specific malfunction. Additionally, pay attention to any unusual symptoms your vehicle may be exhibiting, such as rough idling or poor acceleration, as these details can provide valuable context for your diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can gather the necessary information to address the check engine light effectively and potentially resolve the issue on your own.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2022 Volvo XC40?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2022 Volvo XC40, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems associated with this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can allow fuel vapors to escape and trigger the light. This is an easy fix—simply ensure the cap is tightened properly. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a critical role in monitoring exhaust emissions and fuel efficiency; if this sensor fails, it can lead to decreased performance and increased emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also illuminate the check engine light, as this component is essential for reducing harmful emissions. Worn or faulty spark plugs are another potential cause, as they can disrupt engine performance and efficiency, making regular maintenance crucial. Lastly, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can lead to incorrect air-fuel mixtures, resulting in the check engine light activating. By being aware of these common issues, you can take the first steps toward diagnosing and potentially resolving the problem, ensuring your Volvo XC40 runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2022 Volvo XC40?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2022 Volvo XC40, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to more serious problems, such as engine damage or decreased fuel efficiency, which may result in costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can pinpoint the issue. Common causes for the check engine light include loose gas caps, faulty oxygen sensors, or issues with the emissions system. By addressing these problems early, you not only enhance your vehicle's performance but also prevent further complications that could compromise safety. If the codes indicate a more complex issue, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure that the problem is resolved effectively. Taking prompt action when the check engine light appears is essential for maintaining the longevity and reliability of your Volvo XC40.

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