Good morning,

I drive an XC90 Volvo Diesel 2003. It keeps cutting out on me when I am driving. On Saturday I was on the M25 and the car just cut out on me. The headlights went off but the dash board lights stayed on. There was no warning or anything no noise nothing. This has been happening for a while. I keep asking my garage about it and as usual if they don't see it, it's not happening. It first started happening when the car was in park mode. Now it has actually started to happen when I am driving. The car starts again straight away, so it is really puzzling. Any suggestions.

Very confused
Sharmaine

You are in the UK, right ? You had better find another garage because your Volvo is computer accessible. Quite simply, all they have to do is hook up to the car computer and they can just about find out what the problem is. That is a serious problem, occurring when you are driving.

Don't 'keep asking' insist that they find the problem if you are paying for it.

I sure hope TxGreaseMonkey sees this one !

Tick

I would start by performing the tests below:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-8.html#post1415281

Start with the basics, such as checking for codes and removing and fully charging the battery. Diesels are hard on batteries and you need to establish a "baseline" of known good items. The condition of the battery may also give insight into whether the alternator is bad. This link should help you assess that:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-10.html#post1973613

Good preventive maintenance is very important on diesels, more so than with gasoline engines. Ensure the air filter and fuel filters are changed at least as frequently as specified by Volvo. Also, follow any water purging procedures. Water is always a big deal with diesels.

If, after performing the tests, the problem persists, focus on fuel pressure. Test the fuel pressure with a mechanical gauge. The fuel pump may be weak, especially after it gets heat soaked. Finally, check the ignition switch for wear or pitting. Ensure there are no TSBs on the ignition switch.

Thank you so much. I will speak with the garage concerned and hopefully they will be able to sort it out. I will keep you advised.

Regards
Sharmaine
England