Door locks quit, CEL came on, won’t start now.

Post by **BlackBart** » 08 Aug 2025, 16:28

Now I have to ask the “My car won’t start” question.

Just finished a 900 mile drive. No issues. Some high altitude, some serious climbing (that was yesterday), Interstate cruised at 75-85 all day.

Parked out front, doors won’t lock with fob. Key locks only drivers door. Replaced battery, no change. Checked door lock system fuses 34 & 35 on the side of the dash - they’re fine, both mirrors work.

Put the key in the ignition to check these things, there’s a new CEL on. None during the trip.

Started it up, died in 5 seconds. Now it just cranks, no start.

Why do I go anywhere??

Post by **BlackBart** » 08 Aug 2025, 16:37

I did put a small bottle of Lucas injector cleaner in it 180 miles ago, on a full tank.

When I started it, I noticed the tach dropped to zero right away.

Post by **BlackBart** » 08 Aug 2025, 16:54

Mass airflow plug is not loose. Battery positive cable is tight.

ignatz · Post by **ignatz** » 08 Aug 2025, 17:12

I copied this sequence from a post I made from about a week ago.
I found a YouTube video showing how this happened to another Volvo and this is what he said to do.
With the "Key" only.
Lock and fully unlock the car with the key.

Then get in the car, shut the door and turn the ignition completely on and completely off 5 times, then on the 6th try, start the car.
After trying to start my car for days, it started right up. "Supposedly" this reacquaints the key with the ECM.

Worth a try.

Post by **BlackBart** » 08 Aug 2025, 17:22

OK….i pulled a bunch of critical looking fuses in the engine fusebox and the dash end cap. All fine.

I tried your trick - started up, CEL gone, it’s idling. Only thing new is SRS-AIRBAG SERVICE URGENT in the info window. That’s pretty random.

Post by **BlackBart** » 08 Aug 2025, 17:54

So, related to the imobilizer? Did I bump the key fob wrong or something?

I may go have it scanned and clear the airbag code, that’s random. It has a new steering wheel bag done at a dealer.

Funny - there IS a dealer here where we’re visiting. They once gave my car a sideways look and said they could get me in in 6 weeks.

Post by **volvolugnut** » 08 Aug 2025, 17:59

Oh no! Car trouble during the road trip?
volvolugnut

Post by **BlackBart** » 08 Aug 2025, 18:02

Exactly. Why should I ever go anywhere again, if something breaks each time? One time my Audi engine blew up, full of fresh new oil.

Vova585 · Post by **Vova585** » 08 Aug 2025, 19:46

Lets start with basics.
1) simple obd scan- what codes you have?
2) any chance you have vida/dice?
Most important- car that breaks at home, deserves to be repaired
I doubt injector cleaner is at fault here. CEL is of an interest. Good scanner should be able to pull "history" codes which might give you guidance further. I can see how crank, no start can be related to immobilizer acting up, but door lock/unlock is usually issue with leaked auto dimming rearview glass(fluid leaks onto the module inside the rearview and it is toast)

Post by **DavidE7** » 08 Aug 2025, 20:03

Always bring VIDA and DICE on trips!!! My 2004 XC70 has had the most electrical issues out of my entire collection. Only time I have a problem is if I left VIDA-DICE at home. This reminds me that I need to buy a third DICE equivalent scan tool for my middle kid and load the VIDA software on his computer before he goes back to school.

Putting a P2 Volvo into the sensitive scan mode helps find random and intermittent fault codes. Airbag codes won;t clear themselves in my experience. You need a scan tool to reset the error. Being able to monitor air-fuel ratio, oxygen sensor output, VVT cam angles, and the thousands of electronic actuation possibilities to see if there is a switch or actuator or sensor problem is invaluable.

I hope your Volvo goes back to being the boring, extremely comfortable, and reliable transportation it is supposed to be!