6 Reasons Why Your Volvo XC40 Check Engine Light Illuminates in San Francisco

6 Reasons Why Your Volvo XC40 Check Engine Light Illuminates in San Francisco In general, every vehicle has several lights in the instrument cluster and the most common among them is the check engine light. For a variety of reasons, you will notice the check engine light is illuminated on the dashboard. Thus, the check engine light will warn you something isn’t right in your vehicle, so ignoring the problem could put you or your vehicle in danger.

In your Volvo, the check engine light doesn’t always activate with the same color means it indicates the problems with different colors such as:  

Red lights indicate a serious problem that needs the immediate attention of a mechanic.

Orange or yellow lights indicate a less serious problem and still get it checked to find the causes behind it.

Thus, the check engine light is illuminated on the dashboard of the Volvo XC40 due to several reasons and many of them are related to the specific components. The following points define the reasons behind the illuminated check engine light in your Volvo XC40.

Failed spark plugs Thus, the spark plug is an important component in the Volvo that is supplying the spark needed for igniting the air/fuel mixture and creates the explosion in which the engine produces power.

Moreover, it works as a heat exchanger by pulling the unwanted thermal energy and transfer heat to the engine's cooling system.

When the spark plugs are failed, then you may notice that your vehicle is slow to accelerate and activate the check engine light on the dashboard.

Damaged thermostat In general, the thermostat is used for regulating the flow of coolant to the engine. If the coolant is contaminated with the outside dirt, debris, and other substances, then it could be corroded and lead to engine overheating.

On the other hand, the coolant leak also activates the check engine light and the engine begins to heat up too much. When it happens, you will found puddles of greenish drops of coolant under the parking area of your vehicle.

Faulty oxygen sensor

Generally, the oxygen sensor is an important component of the vehicle that can measure and monitors the amount of fuel burn by it. The availability of oxygen sensors in the Volvo can be varied from vehicle to vehicles such as 2 and 4 oxygen sensors. If any of the oxygen sensors is failed, then it will trigger the check engine light automatically.

When the oxygen sensor is failed, it will reduce the gas mileage and increase the emission as well as damage the catalytic converter. For preventing the issues, you have to consult with a reputed mechanic to replace the sensor.

Malfunctioned airflow sensor Moreover, the mass airflow sensor is keeping the track record of the air entering into the engine and informs the computer about the amount of fuel that should go in. When the airflow sensor malfunctions, it may lead to engine stalling and increase emissions.

Unlike the other causes, the improperly installed air filter will disrupt the airflow and fail the sensor over time. So, prevent the airflow sensor damages of the vehicle by replacing the air filter at a regular interval.

Replace the EGR valve Thus, the EGR valve or the exhaust gas recirculation is maintaining the lower level of nitrogen oxide produced from the engine by redirecting the exhaust gas back into the combustion chamber. Now the modern cars like Volvo XC40 have an electrically controlled valve that can open and closes from the onboard computer.

When the flow is affected, it could trigger the check engine light automatically. Eventually, you will notice the buildup of carbons in the valve and clog up the system entirely. If you are feeling a stall or hiccup while idling, then inspect the valve as soon as possible.

Clogged catalytic converter Moreover, the catalytic converter is a vital part of the exhaust that can turn the carbon monoxide from the engine into carbon dioxide through the exhaust system. When it is clogged, then it will produce black smoke from the exhaust. Perform the oil change to keep it working efficiently and service them on a regular interval.

Conclusion Due to numerous reasons, you will notice illuminated check engine light on the dashboard of the Volvo XC40. If you are living in San Francisco, then consult with a reputed mechanic to diagnose the causes behind the activated check engine light and fix it immediately.