Seeking Advice on Troubleshooting 2011 Volvo V50's Speedometer and Airbag Warning Lights Issues

Hey there! I've got a bit of experience with cars - I'm no mechanic, but I know my way around an engine. Similar thing happened to my 2013 Volvo V60 a while back and ended up being an acceleration sensor issue. My warning lights weren't the same as yours, but these sensor issues can present themselves in different ways. Took mine down to my local workshop, and the guys there were really good about it. First off, they did a full diagnostic to pin down the problem. Once they identified the issue, they replaced the faulty acceleration sensor. It was fairly straightforward - I believe they simply removed the old sensor and installed the new one following the manufacturer's instructions. It cost a bit though - ended up setting me back around 315 Euro. I'm not sure if you're dealing with exactly the same problem, but it could be worth looking into it. What's your mileage like? Any recent accidents or rough driving conditions? More info would help me give you a better idea of what you might be dealing with. Hope you get it sorted soon!

(Translated from German)

Hey, thanks for the swift reply! My Volvo V50 has done 73,454 kilometers and it was last serviced just a couple weeks ago. I haven't had any accidents or driven in rough conditions recently, the issue started out of the blue. I'll check on the acceleration sensor like you suggested. Sucks to hear about the costs, but hey, if it solves the problem I'm ready to cough up. Appreciate the help!

(Translated from German)

No worries, just glad to help where I can! Alright, from what you've told me, this really seems like a sudden malfunction. Now looking at your mileage and recent servicing it's kinda strange the issue popped up. Generally, on a well-serviced car these warning lights shouldn't just light up. Remember, the warning lights on our cars are linked to a multitude of systems, not just the one they specifically represent. So, for example, the airbag warning light could be related to a sensor issue, wiring issue, even a problem with the seat belts can trigger it. Now since you think it might be the active hood malfunction, it can indeed trigger the airbag warning light. The system uses similar sensors to detect an impact which is associated closely with the airbag system. Try to have the active hood system checked as well. About cost, it's indeed a bit painful, but we have to keep the safety features of our cars at their prime always. I reckon, if the problem does turn out to be the active hood system it won't cost you much, maybe just a recalibration or at worst replacing a sensor. Make sure to give me an update once you've had it checked out! Fingers crossed, hope it's nothing major and you're rolling again soon. Stay safe!

(Translated from German)

You bet! I've made notes on your suggestions and that gives me a bit more clarity coming into this. I'll have a chat with the service guys about the acceleration sensor, the active hood system, and see what they find in their diagnostic. I'm hoping it's nothing more than a recalibration or, at worst, like you said, a sensor replacement. Anyway, I'll keep you in the loop once I've got an update. Thanks again for taking the time, really appreciate it! Cheers and stay safe too!

(Translated from German)