During a road trip, our 2006 XC90 (104K Miles)broke down. Did receive the "High Voltage" message, as well as the ABS warning, the transmission warning, and the "Power System service Urgent" message. The engine limited the RPM's. We were able to crawl to a mechanic. Verdict: replace Alternator. With a Volvo dealer 200+ miles away, an aftermarket alternator was ordered and installed. Details on part: NAPA AUTO PARTS.

Everything went fine for 300+ miles. The last three days, the "Power System service Urgent" message popped up after driving about 15 minutes. Restarting the engine does make the message disappear.

After having these issues, I did read on the forums about alternator replacement.

My question is - Is it safe to drive 1500 mile back home, ignoring the message? Or should I seek urgent help from a Volvo dealer?

 

Visited the Volvo dealer in Phoenix, just to be able to not strand in the middle of Death Valley... The verdict is that the 3rd party alternator does not have the right regulators and that causes spikes which could potentially damage the electronics. The ECM is not damaged and seems to be fine. As a result, I get to replace the alternator for he second time. This time for the volvo sourced alternator (700), plus some extra parts (200) to provide extra cooling (needed because the 2006 XC90 did not have those parts originally). With labor it will be around 1500...


Provided this information for people who are considering to do the alternator replacement themselves or through a non Volvo mechanic. Apparently, it is risky to go with the aftermarket alternators offered...You may have to pay twice.


If you have comparable experiences, or want to comment, feel free to post!

 

What engine in your car?

 

Yep, I've seen that quite a few times.

I assume he has the V8 because of the additional parts needed for heat dissipation.

 

rbx
Did the factory replacement alternator fix you "power system service urgent" message?
my 2006 xc90 v8 AWD is showing the same message.

 

Whenever I see the V8 model at the dealer's auction, I just walk on by. What a mess!

Just like those liquid cooled Crapillacs with a liquid cooled alternator and blow head gaskets.

 

Yes the factory replacement did completely fix the issue. Now at 115kMiles without any issues. Love the V8!

 

Better you than me.