2006 XC70 check-engine plus anti-skid service required

live2drive · Post by **live2drive** » 03 Mar 2015, 10:17

A check-engine light caused my 2006 XC70 to fail state inspection. Additionally, there is a maintenance light indicating “anti-skid service required” (seemingly a “non-issue” for the inspection, but still a concern for me.)

The cars runs fine, but the all-wheel drive is not engaging, meaning the front wheels spin in the snow. I assume this is related to the anti-skid light.

My local Volvo dealer did not address the anti-slip maintenance specifically, but analyzed the check-engine light and identified 2 problems using his code reader ...
1st, steering angle sensor
2nd, differential rear pump assembly
3rd, software upgrade

This could be a significant expense considering the car has over 150,000 miles. But, otherwise it’s in great shape, notably the body, paint, and interior are almost like new.

I don’t mind investing a reasonable $ amount to fix the problem, but the dealership didn’t give me an adequate explanation or assurance that these repairs would correct all my problems, so I am reluctant to start down this path. In other words, I hate throwing good money after bad, doing the recommended repairs only to uncover more extensive problems with the all-wheel drive, anti-slip, and/or emissions.

Any suggestions or words of encouragement that might give me a higher degree of confidence in my decision to either repair the car …or get a new one?

Post by **scot850** » 04 Mar 2015, 19:17

Firstly have them upgrade the software. There is a known problem that makes the self check system over sensitive, and can lead to a variety of false issues. The software upgrade de-sensitises the system and most times fixes the issue. Have them reset the failure lights after upgrade and see if they come back on. I had this issue with our 06 XC70 and the upgrade has fixed it so far and 20.000km on no repeat. If it doesn't fix it, then you may need to think on it as it can become a bottomless pit trying to find the problem.

Neil.

live2drive · Post by **live2drive** » 04 Mar 2015, 19:34

Thanks Neil, I appreciate your insight! Will give it a try.