I recently purchased an 08 C30 with 67k miles on it. The car runs like a dream and seems solid all around.
The only problem is that it has an intermittent starting issue.
Approximately 1-2 times per week when I go to start my car, it doesn't start on the first try. I turn the key, lights, cd player..etc all come on though. When this happens, I will either hear a slight click, or nothing. After bringing the key back to the off position and trying again, the car always starts fine and continues running without any problems.
I have not seen any error messages come up when this problem occurs.

A few additional details..the temperature here has consistently been in the 20's to 40's since I bought the car, with quite a few days of rain/snow. The car still has its original Volvo battery, and I'm assuming the batteries in my keys are original as well. I never carry more than one key -the spare is always at home.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I love this car and intend to keep it until it finally dies with no hope of repair.
Has anyone else had a similar problem?

 

If you can, have the battery, alternator and starter tested.
Usually when you turn the key and just hear clicking it is the starter showing signs of failure.

 

have u scan the car for dtc?? how are the battery terminals??

 

I just started having the same problem, except it takes three to five attempts before it starts. Please let me know if you figure it out!

 

Turn on the interior lights and hit the starter switch. If the interior lights do not dim at all when you hit the starter switch, but the starter doesn't operate, you probably aren't energizing the starter solenoid. Suspect the ignition switch, starter relay, transmission safety switch starter solenoid, or wiring between these devices. If the interior light go very dim or go out when you hit the starter, you are probably energizing the starter solenoid, but there is not sufficient power to operate the starter motor. Suspect the battery cables or the battery.

 

Had the same problem. Needed a new ignition switch. once replaced, the problem went away!

 

Did anyone resolve the problem? My car is taking 3-5 attempts. @masfeat

 

Did you every fix this problem? Does any body know how to fix this? SO frustrating

here is a video showing exactly what it does.

 

bump

 

do i need the key with a second hand ignition switch

 

I know this thread is old but wanted to see anyone found the a cause? I changed my stater control unit and that did not help.

 

I have the same problem on my 2013 T5. It's a quick attempt to start but it quits. Usually, the second attempt will start it but, occasionally it may take two or three attempts. Ignition switch has been replaced and did not solve the problem. A Volvo tech checked all other possibilities and came up empty, with everything checking out OK. I personally believe it is an intermittent starter problem but, I'm not going to change it out on a maybe. When whatever it is dies, then I will know!

 

that is my thoughts as well. Have you looked into what starters are available. Volvo wants 400-500 for one. I was leaning towards a Bosch re-manufactured for 170. (When it finally stops)

 

Any chance it’s a fuel pressure sensors issue?

 

I have replaced that, as well.

 

Yeah, probably go the reman route. Most likely Rock Auto or FCP Euro.

 

I decided to take a chance and see if a new starter helps. I’ll let you know.

 

Hi, did the new starter help? Same issue here. Always starts on second try if not the first.

 

Long story, I did replace the starter with a Bosch starter and it made a loud grinding sound when starting. So I cleaned the terminals and put my original starter back in. I also replaced the relay switch’s. Now it starts every time.

 

that sounds frustrating! so replacing the relay switches and cleaning the battery terminals did the trick somehow (and reseating the original starter)? i could give that a try! these electronic gremlins are so mysterious.