I have a 2001 Volvo S40

Ive had it for about 2-3 months, and noticed on occasion that while driving slow, the engine would just cut out on me. I would just put the car in either park or neutral, turn the key, and it would start up again just fine.

The same thing recently happened to me, only this time the engine will not turn back on. I had a friend come try and jump my car, but it didnt help, even after we had the cables on for about 10 minutes. All the lights and such work and are not dim at all.

Still today, all the lights and radio still work just fine, but the engine will not turn on. It makes a clicking sound that makes me believe it wants to start, but just doesnt.

My question is...What can my problem be?

 

Note: Check engine light has been on since 2 weeks after i bought it. a friend scanned it, and if i remember correctly it was the MAF sensor. Im not sure if that can be my problem

 

Clicking sound is usually a sign of low voltage reaching the starter. This can be several things including weak battery, dirty battery/cable connections, corroded cables, loose cables, etc. Start by checking the voltage at the battery looking for about 12 volts. Turn the key to start and watch the voltage drop. Anything less than 9-10 volts and the engine will not crank over. If the voltage is good then look at the battery cables and connections. If you live in a heavy salt use area then it's easy for corrosion to ruin a battery cable. Remember the battery cable is like a pipe in that the smaller it is the less it can flow. If either the power or ground cable is corroded inside it may restrict the flow of electricity while appearing normal outside the insulation.

 

Sounds like you have lots of power...neutral start switch the culprit I bet. It's on the transmission below the TB 2 screw mount, cable runs to an area under engine fuse box. Car doesn't know you are in park/neutral and won't start.

Rockauto.com
AIRTEX 1S6932 Neutral Safety Switch / Range Sensor (8536.50.9200)

 

It would be nice if we got a follow up. What did you find?