'91 240 - Intermittent Issues When Trying to Start

typ · Post by **typ** » 15 Jan 2010, 15:02

I am currently experiencing an issue with my Volvo not wanting to start at random times. It won't even crank, I'll turn the key and nothing. At first I thought it was an issue with the shifter not being in-line with the sensor for the shifter lock, but I've verified that is not the culprit.

It has only happened twice, both times after driving on the highway for at least 1 hour. I've been resolving the issue by waiting... the first time I went back into the house and tried a couple hours later, started right up. Last night I waited about 45 minutes and it started right up. I'm assuming this may be a component not functioning due to heat, and once cooled off it is ready to go.

If anyone has any ideas and/or suggestions they'd be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

Post by **billofdurham** » 15 Jan 2010, 15:47

When this happens do you lose any other ignition controlled items, e.g. radio, heater, dash warning lights, or is it only the starter that doesn't function?

Bill.

typ · Post by **typ** » 15 Jan 2010, 17:27

Everything else works just fine before I turn the key. I want to say that when I turn the key the radio, heater, etc. will pause. I can't be sure...

I am positive that everything works when I am not attempting to turn the key in the ignition (before and after). Hope this info helps.

billofdurham wrote:When this happens do you lose any other ignition controlled items, e.g. radio, heater, dash warning lights, or is it only the starter that doesn't function?

Bill.

Post by **billofdurham** » 16 Jan 2010, 12:50

It is normal for the radio and heater to stop when you turn the key to the start position. They then resume when you drop back to position 11.

Time to start checking leads. Start at the battery check positive and negative for tightness and cleanliness. Where the negative is attached to the body should be cleaned of all corrosion and a smear of grease applied before bolting it back in. Check the positive cable that goes to the starter motor. On some cars this can chafe against bodywork. Also check where it is connected to the starter motor. This must be tight and clean. Check the other wires at the starter motor. Trace them back, checking for chafing. There is also an earth (ground) strap from the engine to the body which is usually overlooked.

Before disconnecting the battery leads have your radio code handy.

Bill.

pet19821 · Post by **pet19821** » 17 Jan 2010, 14:36

i had the same problem but mine was the shift interlock. cleaning the battery cables did help.

tblo760 · Post by **tblo760** » 21 Jan 2010, 19:06

typ wrote:I am currently experiencing an issue with my Volvo not wanting to start at random times. It won't even crank, I'll turn the key and nothing. At first I thought it was an issue with the shifter not being in-line with the sensor for the shifter lock, but I've verified that is not the culprit.

It has only happened twice, both times after driving on the highway for at least 1 hour. I've been resolving the issue by waiting... the first time I went back into the house and tried a couple hours later, started right up. Last night I waited about 45 minutes and it started right up. I'm assuming this may be a component not functioning due to heat, and once cooled off it is ready to go.

Do a quick check first,all you need is a length of wire with a spade on one end,remove the wire on the solenoid and fit the new wire,now with the ign.,on touch the other end of the lead to the positive battery terminal,the engine should fire up immediately,this will tell you that the issue is related to the energising circuit.Also when you are having the intermittent problems, you can test the original circuit with a test lamp,which should light when the key is turned to start.

If anyone has any ideas and/or suggestions they'd be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.