01 Volvo v70xc Strange clicking noise in #2 key position

01V70xc · Post by **01V70xc** » 26 Nov 2013, 16:03

After totaling my 1998 v70 GLT I decided to stay with volvo and found a good deal on a 2001 v70 XC cross country. Not sure if it's just this particular vehicle or all, but this has been the worst vehicle I've ever had. Having said that, the latest issue just happened this afternoon. Son called from school and said car started but he shut off to run back in the building, came out and just a clicking noise when he turned the key. I drove up and brought my scan tool. Seemed as though the battery may be dead so tried to jump, and no luck. I then noticed when I turned the key to the 2nd position there was a clicking noise coming from what appeared to be the area under the dash board around the steering column. When I then turned the key to the 3rd position (to start) there was another clicking noise but would not turn over.

When I connected my scan tool and turned the key to # 2 position the screen was blinking in cadence with the clicking noise I was hearing. In addition, the dash lights would blink on and off as well (at first all lights illuminated then only one which I believe was CEL came on). No radio at all or the power windows not functional, even when I has the jumper cables connected. The miles to empty in the message indicator stated 999999 which I had never seen before.

The best way I can describe the clicking noise is what a bad starter sounds like... However, there are 2 distinct noises being heard. Would the starter make a clicking noise in the #2 key position when the vehicle is not even being started?

Has anyone ever experienced this before and if so, could you please provide your insight. This car has been a money pit and I'm hoping this isn't going to be a big fix.

Post by **oragex** » 26 Nov 2013, 20:56

Clicking noise = dead battery.

How did you jump it? + to + and - to -

Post by **vtl** » 26 Nov 2013, 22:51

Most likely it was a dead battery. If you beat battery to death, you may loose software in computers, so now you may have much bigger problem.

swimNdrive · Post by **swimNdrive** » 26 Nov 2013, 23:41

I had similar issue before. The replays clicking but the starter wouldn't crank. The caused was the loose connection with starter. Look for a white connector on the starter and waggle it a little and see if the starter will crank when you turn the key in III position. My case was a known issue. If you google with key words like "xc70 starter problem", you may find some solutions.

01V70xc · Post by **01V70xc** » 27 Nov 2013, 12:59

Thank you very much Gents who responded to my post. Went and removed the battery, tried charging and it did not hold the charge. Bought a new one and back in business... Thanks again for taking time to provide your expertise and insight.

Post by **oragex** » 27 Nov 2013, 14:37

Very welcome. I would also have a quick check of the alternator to see if it provides the right charge.