General: xc90 ISSUES

[DougW]

I have recently bough a 2004 XC90 D5.AWD. It has only 128000 on the clock, a one previous owner, last 5 years only completed 6000mls.With full service history. I am having issues with it in that it puts out black smoke between 1500 and 2500 revs, and I have various "messages" pop up. Engine service, Check coolant and ABS. The garage have checked it but to no avail. Car runs well with good power and speed. Average MPG is saying 36.1. Question does this indicate injector problems? is there an inexpensive way off identifying which one?. Thanks

[gmonag]

The garage have checked it but to no avail.

They clearly have no idea what they are doing. Take the car to a mechanic who can read the codes and take it from there.

[Tannaton]

^^^^ What he said....

There are very few "problem" XC90's. There are a lot of "problem" garages. You need to take it to a dealer who has the proper Volvo diagnostic equipment - they will quickly find the faults. You may pay more but in the long run you will pay less as you are not subsidising "poke and hope" diagnosis.

Anyway dealing with your problems...

Check coolant is simple - check the coolant level and top up if needed. If it didn't need topping up then most likely it's the level sensor in the header tank. Easiest way to fix is a second hand header tank - £20 and 10 mins to fit. It should point out though that if it does need topping up - where did it go? You might have a leak or other problem.

The black smoke will be related to the "Engine Service" message and I would say is most likely a blown/leaking intercooler or boost pipe split. A read of the error codes and physical examination should confirm this, shouldn't be too expensive to fix. The leak causes air to be lost from the intake system and hence the fuel/air ratio is too rich which causes loss of power and smoking.

The ABS issue you will need to get the codes read, but it is often a simple £20 sensor or a £3 reluctor ring (30 mins and 90 mins to fit or thereabouts). But you really need to get the car on Volvo compatible diagnostics to be sure.

Once you get this car sorted you will love it.