What is the Use of a Professional OBDII Scanner in Volvo Vehicles?

Known for inventing the modern seatbelt in 1959, Volvo, a Swedish Automobile manufacturer, has become a big name worldwide today. With its simple and minimalistic designs and excellent safety features, Volvo has always improved safety standards in the automobile industry. 

Designed to cover a trip of more than 200,000 miles, this vehicle introduced side airbags and three-point seat belts that have saved millions of lives to date. Considering this, as a Volvo owner, you should always ensure to take serious care of your vehicle. This will not only enhance your vehicle’s overall efficiency but also keep you safe, no matter how far you travel. 

One of the most common ways to ensure your Volvo vehicle offers enhanced and optimised performance every time is with the help of professional diagnostic tools for Volvo vehicles. If you are a first-timer, do not worry. A professional diagnostic tool is a simple scanner that allows you to see the problems within your car. 

In today’s blog, we will discuss some of Volvo's standard error codes, how to read them, and why fixing these error codes is essential. 

Keep reading to know more from the experts at Global Diagnostics. 

But first…

What is a Diagnostic OBD2 Scanner for Volvo?

So, an OBDII scanner is an electronic tool to diagnose problems in the engine, transmission, etc. One can also call it a Volvo truck diagnostic scanner with advanced features, which you only need to plug the scanner into your car’s OBDII port, usually found under the dashboard, and get real-time data about the car’s health. When you use a professional Volvo OBD2 scanner, it allows you to:

• Monitor engine performance and emissions.

• Support manufacturer-specific diagnostic protocols like VIDA and DICE.

• Identify problems before they become serious.

• Read trouble codes specific to Volvo’s design.

• Communicate with multiple ECUS (Electronic Control Units) in Volvo vehicles. 

(Also read from our previous blogs: How to Choose the Best Vehicle Diagnostic Tools?) 

How to Read Volvo Error Codes with an OBDII Scanner

Using a Volvo-compatible OBDII scanner is very easy. Once you get the Volvo-compatible diagnostic software and tools, follow the process mentioned below: 

1. Find the OBDII port, which is usually under the steering wheel or near the driver’s side footwell.

2. Turn on your ignition without starting the engine (position II).

3. Plug in the OBDII scanner and wait for the scanner to power up.

4. Navigate the menu and choose the "Read Codes" or "Diagnostics" option.

5. Select Volvo or auto-detect the model.

6. Don’t just check engine codes; scan ABS, SRS, etc. Scan all modules

7. Record the codes manually or export the data to your smartphone.

8. Visit a professional Volvo mechanic to fix the issue based on the error code interpretation.

9. After repairs, clear the codes to reset the warning lights

Some of the Common Error Codes in Volvo Vehicles

The following are some of the most common error codes for the Volvo OBD2 scanner for accurate fault detection: 

1. P0101: This code means the Mass Air Flow Sensor is out of range 

2. P0171: This code means the engine system is too lean

3. P0420: This code means the Catalytic Converter Efficiency is below the threshold

4. P0300-P0306: This code means there are multiple/random cylinder misfires caught

5. SRS-00D4: This code means the Passenger Airbag Sensor lost communication

6. ABS-0100: This code means there is a fault in the internal brake control module
   

What will happen if you ignore these codes?

So, what happens when you do not take these codes seriously? Well, your volvo car will eventually start to: 

• Break down

• Decrease engine and fuel efficiency 

• Cause unwanted and hefty repair costs   

• Decrease the overall value of your vehicle 

• Cause safety concerns

Bottom Line

Now that you know how to read and understand the OBD2 scanner codes, always trust Global Diagnostic’s professional diagnostic tools for Volvo vehicles. These advanced tools allow you to fix problems before they compromise your safety. 

If you are looking forward to speaking to us directly to address your concerns, you can contact us here.