2000 Volvo XC70 strange lights

LADLEBUGS1

MEMBER
2000 VOLVO XC70
4 CYL
AWD
AUTOMATIC
94,000 MILES

First the engine light went on and stayed on. Nothing new. Then I get the ABS and Brake lights coming on at the same time and everytime it happens the speedometer stops working. When they go out the speedometer comes back on. Then it shifts into AWD without me touching the button and when I take it out of AWD, the arrow (indicator for AWD) keeps flashing. The longer I drive it, the worse it gets. It feels like the engine is being held back and the steering feels funny too. I just spent $1500 to fix this garbage and it looks like here we go again! Any ideas?

2 Replies

JIS001

MECHANIC
3,411 POSTS

You need to have the ABS system diagnosed. Sometimes when you have a problem with the ABS the CHECK ENGINE light will come on but only post a code to tell you to check the ABS. What you are describing seems like you may have a problem with a speed sensor. If one of the wheels reports that it is not moving the ABS interprets that as if the wheel has locked up and reduces the torque on the engine to prevent you from going any faster. So take it in to have it dignosed to see what is going on. What I can suggest for now is that you remove the center caps and check the axle bolts and make sure they are still on and tight. If missing or loose the axle could be sliding back and forth causing you to loose the speed signal. Also inspect the rings for damage on the axles. Inspect the ABS sensor harness for chaffing as well. Anything else from there you should really take it in for proper diagnosing. Goo luck and keep me posted as t what you find.