2002 Volvo S60 - Intermittent "check engine" light?

Question

Surely it's a malfunction if some days the light is on and other days the light is NOT on. Right????? It's hard to take it seriously if the darn thing can't make up its mind.

Answer 1

Check the engine.

Answer 2

Don't take my word for it, but consider the possiblity: lots of cars can go years with their check engine light on. especially if it goes on and off. But before you worry, make sure it isn't anything stupid like your gas cap not being on right, or a simliar issue with something under your hood.

Answer 3

Depending on the problem, that can happen. Once the car goes through three cycles, the computer will reset, and if the problem is gone, no light. You really need to have the codes read to determine exactly what the problem is.

Answer 4

Take it to the dealer, even if the light is not on, but not too long after the light has gone off .  The vehicle will have the code stored as either active (light will be on) or inactive (light will be off).  That will give the tech a direction to go in order to solve your problem.  Being that you aren't saying there's any performance/economy problems, your problem is likey something minor.  Get the code read at a Volvo dealer and they will be able to help you.  Hope this helps.

Answer 5

Late model Volvo's are like that. To clear my check engine light I had ti replace a $30 Evaporative purge valve and it's rubber hose. I own a '01 S80 T6. When the light comes on use a scanner to pull the codes. Autozone sells generic scanners fro about 50 bucks right now and they are an excellent investment.