Traction control

[DaleBruce123]

Please help, I have a 2004 XC90 that has a few issues, most serious is the loss of power ( goes into a sort of limp mode ) because the traction control won't work until I turn the DSTC off then it is fine but I really want this sorted any advice or help would be.very helpful. I also have a problem with the steering this also losses its power and becomes very hard to turn.

[Familyman 90]

Your first problem really requires the car is plugged in to a specialist Volvo code reader, such as VIDA, to see what is going on. There are far to many things it could be to simply guess from afar I'm afraid.

I have it on good authority that PAS pumps can fail as mileage climbs beyond 100k, so that might be the problem. A new exchange unit isn't super expensive, even fitted at the dealer. However, there are other potential causes so its worth getting it checked.

Let us know how you get on.

[Tannaton]

You need to get the codes read, as said above, this will likely tell you exactly what the problem is with the traction control system. Often it's a cracked reluctor ring on the front driveshafts that cost less than £10 and take about 40 mins to fit.

With regard to the PAS - first step is change the fluid, if that doesn't help then you could try changing the pump but a dealer can do a pressure test which will tell you if its the pump or the rack. Changing the pump is a doddle. Changing the rack... not so much...