Hi all,

Just wanted to check if anyone else has experienced the safe/limp mode on a Volvo S40? - Mine is 2.0 S40 D SE (2004)

Signs that limp mode is active is:
- You are not able to make the car go over 2000 revs.
- Cruise Control cannot be switched on.
- No or very little boost from Turbo.

What can cause it? - Anyone?

My S40 had a service today (72,75,80k) and I was informed by the dealer that the cause of the "limp" mode is to protect other parts of the car. The Particulate Filter required changing every 6 years so I approved the work to be carried out given little alternative to resolve the matter.

Total cost of service + filter = £1000

Even worse, the problem still exists. No other fault codes have shown up on the Control Module / Diagnostic.

If when the limp mode doesn't come on the car drives perfectly fine. Boost is fine, no loss of power. Tick over is very stable. Annoying really as apart from this fault the car is in perfect condition inside and out.

Any response would be great.

Cheers,

Nigel

 

try a new airflow meter on the intake.. or better still, borrow one from a friend to try first. worked for my friend.

 

Have you taken the car to the local autozone or wherever and gotten the codes read?? - that would be my first port of call

Also, you could make sure that the "W" button down by the handbrake isn't lit up, that would feel like the car is in limp mode

 

Thanks for the replies.

The problem was resolved by the Volvo dealer eventually. After the Particulate Filter was replaced and didn't fix the fault; no other fault codes were being logged so they couldn't accurately diagnose the problem until one of the junior mechanics got frustrated with the two "Volvo specialists arguing" and simply took the new Particulate Filter back off again and noticed the sensor was dead. Replaced the sensor and it's been fine now for months.

Somewhat dis-satisfied Volvo misdiagnosed and replaced the Particulate Filter as I'm now not 100% convinced that work was essential. However, I could challenge my own view and agree that because the filter was full to the brim.. the sensor died.. either way Volvo didn't charge me for the extra work to strip and fit the new sensor as they had misdiagnosed the fault.

I do admit that since the work been carried out the cars acceleration and general torque is up by a good 20%.

For info: One of the mechanics after fixing the fault did ask if I'd ever put Petrol in it by mistake as this is also something that can cause the Particulate Filter to be damaged. I haven't - but just mentioning it in-case anyone else in the forum may have.

Hmm.. that's a point. I wonder if the missus has!!?