‘04 XC90 Brake Reset
 

Hello, I’m looking to buy a XC90 2.5T however the seller is saying the “kill switch” is engaged and needs the electrical brake system reset, the vehicle turns over but won’t run.

I did some digging around in the forums and thought this might be something related to the turning back of the brake module to factory position when changing the pads & rotors, but it appears that’s only needed to compress the piston in the caliper & has no affect on the ability to drive after the job is complete.

I know this may be a shot in the wind, I have some mechanical knowledge but was hoping someone with more expertise in Volvo’s realm might be able to pinpoint the issue based on the description above and point me in the right direction of getting this car running. It’s in good condition otherwise and the seller is asking $1,000 so if it appears to be something relatively simple I would certainly appreciate the knowledge and help!

Tia,

Spidey

There is no kill switch as such, the only thing I can think of is the CEM (central electronic module) is in crash mode, and hence no power to the fuel pump and engine disabled following a heavy impact during which the airbags would likely have blown. This likely means the car has had major repairs and never driven (or tested) since. That would be my guess based on what you have shared - needs plugging in to proper Volvo diagnostics.