Non-Start in Cold Weather

[AndyD2023]

I own a 21 plate V60.
In cold weather, it fails to start. The fault is intermittent, but appears related to the weather.
When I turn the "start" switch, all look good, but the engine doesn't start.
The garage have done all the usual tests, including replacing the Auxiliary battery, tested the control panel, checked starter motor, battery...everything.

The latest news I received, is that the auxiliary battery wants to "kick-in" and I need to leave it sufficient time before I turn the start switch a second time - and if I don't then the car won't start.

During the summer it isn't a problem and the garage have said that they aren't able to replicate the problem, but until the temperature drops to sub-zero, it won't happen again. I feel fobbed off that they are blaming me for turning the start switch on "too" quickly and I need to wait for the Aux battery to be given time to work. Has anyone else come across this issue?

BTW - It's a Volvo Dealership who even suggested I come in for the technician to show me how to start the car...No comment!

I also took a video, but is too large to upload..however it simply shows me repeatedly turning the start button, the dashboard lighting up etc...but no engine start

Also, the Aux battery appears fine, as all the lights, radio etc are working, and since the main battery is fine, I am at a loss and have put a complaint into Volvo, having caled out Volvo assist a dozen times!

[AndyD2023]

Latest update.
So I have been told it's the way I start the car and to pick it up.
I went to the Dealership, who plugged in Diagnostics and the car started 1st time!
He then disconnected and turned the "knob" only for it not to start. After several attempts, and disconnecting the diagnostics, he started it again!

The head technician now agrees that it's not my method of starting, but probably the starter motor, but unfortunately they were not able to get an error code!

However, it is Volvo UK's team that put the blame on me, stating that my method of starting the engine was the problem. All I can say is how shocking Volvo UK are! I thought the customer was always right. I have only called out Volvo assist around 12 times in 2 years over the same fault

[Ulrikas PA]

If we can't fix it , it's your fault.

How about, if we've built it in such a way that operator error is a 'factor' , then we didn't build it properly in the first place.

I genuinely think that the cars are starting to get beyond the dealers capabiliities.

[AndyD2023]

So, having proved that there is an issue, Volvo UK would still not approve the work! - as they still want to see a diagnostic report. Seriously, Volvo UK are so intransigent, hiding behind a rule book and defending their position in an attempt to save costs at the expense of the customer

However, the dealership (and the technician) are going beyond this and taking it on. For once, the technician is taking ownership, as he believes it is the starter motor and he is replacing it.

NB - From Volvo UK, 4 weeks on from complaining, I get an acknowledgement that they have received my complaint....and that's it.

Watch this space, as I will continue to post updates

[AndyD2023]

Finally Volvo UK approved a new starter motor...and all appears OK.
I await next freeze....Hoping that will be my last post and no problems

[Mksnipe]

Hey Andyd, I'm facing a similar problem, though it's not as chilly here in Florida. Whenever the temperature falls to the low 50s or below, my car just won't start. Did replacing the starter solve your problem? I've checked the batteries, and they all seem fine. Even my local Volvo dealer couldn't figure it out. I'm driving a 2017 V90 CC T6 with a 4-cylinder engine. Do you have the same engine? I'm hoping the fix that worked for you might be the solution for mine too.