2004 Volvo S60 Experiencing Starting Issues and Dim Lights: Possible Defective Auxiliary Battery

Hey there! Looks like we are on the same road with our Volvos. I've got a 2007 S80, and it exhibited pretty much the same symptoms not long ago. Every cold start felt like a battle, lights were dimming, you know the drill. Turned out my problem was not just the auxiliary battery, but the main one as well. After a detailed checkup, my mechanic got it sorted by replacing both batteries. Think about it, most cars over a decade old will likely have the original battery, and that could be the hitch. As serious as it sounds, it's not a death sentence for our old gal. Sure, it's a bit of a snag but could be worse. Just ensure you get it diagnosed properly first. Best to keep those jumper cables handy just in case, right? Hope this helps! Stay safe out there.

(Translated from German)

Hey, Thanks for the prompt reply! It definitely sounds like a familiar situation. My old gal has been showing these signs for a while now, and I was suspecting the batteries too. Just wasn't 100% sure if I'm on the right track or not. Can you recall how much it cost you to replace both batteries? I'm trying to ballpark my expenses here. Also, since the fix, did any other issues pop up, or has your S80 been running smoothly? Cheers!

(Translated from German)

Hey, Ah, the joy of car ownership, right? Yeah, I certainly know what you're talking about. With the cost of replacing both batteries, it was a bit of a hit on my wallet, no lie. I had to cough up 290€ to get the battery issue fixed. Kind of steep but beats having my girl give up on me in the middle of nowhere! Since that adventure to the mechanic’s, I haven't seen any of the same issues crop up. The additional battery defective problem was taken care of, and she now starts without the earlier struggle, and my lights are as bright as day... well, you get the drift! Believe me, it was money well spent. Now I can comfortably cruise around without worrying about dying on the road. Keep us posted on how your gal does, will ya? All the best!

(Translated from German)

Hey! You're not kidding about car ownership! It will indeed hit me in the wallet, but from the sounds of it, the safety and peace of mind it brings seems absolutely worth those 290 Euro. I guess I'll have to take the plunge and get my gal checked over and replace those batteries if needed. As you said, far better than having her just stop out of the blue. Makes me feel a lot better knowing everything has been running fine for you since the fix. Thanks again for all the advice. Will keep you posted on how it goes. Wish me luck! Cheers!

(Translated from German)