Diesel 2004 Volvo XC70 Issues: Black Smoke, Engine Shut-offs, and Cold Start Problems

Hey, Sounds eerily familiar to problems I had with my own diesel engine Volvo S60 ('02 model). I noticed similar symptoms: engine randomly shutting off, difficult cold starts, and that annoying check engine light. Turns out you're spot on. It was an issue with the fuel filter heater wiring harness/connector in my case. The damages to it were causing fuel temperature regulation problems, so my car wasn't starting up or it would just shut off randomly. Yeah, it's a serious enough issue, but nothing a trustworthy mechanic can't handle. It proved to be a bit tricky to diagnose first, but once they pinned it down, the fix wasn't overly complicated. They just replaced the damaged wire harness/connector to the fuel filter heater. Keep in mind, though, every car's different and mine's a slightly different model, so it's best to get it checked by a mechanic you trust before assuming it's the same problem. Good luck with your Volvo, hope you can get her running smoothly again soon!

(Translated from German)

Hey there, Wow, your experience with your S60 does sound incredibly similar to what's happening with my XC70. Good to know I'm not the only one dealing with this kind of issue. The trouble with the fuel filter heater wiring does make sense, especially because of the poor starts and random engine cut-offs I've experienced. Wondering though, do you remember how much you ended up paying for the fix? And since getting that repaired, have you come across any additional problems that might have been lurking in the shadows I should be aware of? Hate to be blindsided by more issues down the line, you know? Thanks a ton for your insights, really appreciate it!

(Translated from German)

Hey, Ah, the cost question, I knew it was just a matter of time before it popped up. Well, to dig out the demons out of my ol' S60, it cost me a pretty penny, around 110 Euro. That was for sorting out the fuel filter heater wiring harness/connector that was damaged. And since your inquiry minds wants to know, post this fix, the old girl's been running real smooth. Touch wood, no nasty surprises waiting in the shadows. That heater defect was the real troublemaker. Now, she starts just fine, even in cold starts and there's no more pesky engine shut offs or black smoke. Remember though, our rides are cousins, not identical twins, and yours might have its own quirks. Best advice I can give - keep a good mechanic on speed dial. Stay safe out there on the road and happy motoring with your XC70! Always happy to share my 2 cents. Anytime!

(Translated from German)

Hey, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience and advice. It's looking like the figure for fixing my XC70 won't be a million miles away from your 110 Euro. Fingers crossed this is the only major issue waiting in the wings. Here's hoping I have the similar smooth sailing with my Volvo after the fix. I'll certainly be keeping an attentive eye on the behavior of my ride from now on, and any sign of potential trouble and I'll have my mechanic on it ASAP. Thanks again for the invaluable input. You've armed me with some very useful knowledge and given me a bit of hope that once this issue is resolved, my Volvo will be back in its top form. Stay safe on the roads and happy cruising with your S60! Cheers!

(Translated from German)