Seeking Guidance on Volvo XC70: Starting Issues, Weak Battery, and Flickering Lights

Hey there, funny you should mention this, I had a similar issue with my own 2009 Volvo S60. It was showing the same signs - trouble starting, flickering lights, the works. I remember the battery voltage was dropping too low after long trips. Turns out, my issue wasn't with the engine control at all. The mechanics figured out that the alternator was the culprit. Apparently, it wasn't charging the battery like it should have. So even though the battery was relatively new, it was draining out faster than it could recharge. So, before you jump to engine control, you might wanna give your alternator a long, hard look. That being said, I’m not a professional mechanic, so you should definitely get a professional to take a look, just to be sure. Good luck with your Volvo, hope you get that sorted out real soon!

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Hey, really appreciate your insight on this. Your scenario with the alternator definitely sounds like it could be what's going on with my Volvo XC70. Seems like I should have a pro check that out before going down the engine control route. By the way, do you recall approxily how much it cost you to get that alternator issue fixed? And, since the repair, have any other related problems popped up? Just trying to get a decent idea of what I might be looking at here. Cheers!

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Hey there again! Absolutely, getting a pro to take a good peek at your Volvo's alternator before jumping on the engine control would be a wise move. After my mechanic had a go at it, the engine control fault was indeed resolved, so you were onto something there. Now, as for your second query about the cost, to replace my drained battery, which was registering too low voltage, cost me just about 290€ — a pretty reasonable amount, I'd say. Thankfully, after that investment, my trusty Volvo has been running like a well-oiled machine. No other related issues have arisen, thank goodness! In essence, don't stress too much, my friend. Have a mechanic you trust take a look and guide you right. Good luck!

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Hey, thanks again for all your help! It certainly gives me a bit more clarity moving forward. It's great to hear your Volvo’s been running smoothly since you got that alternator sorted out. Definitely makes me hope I'm on the same boat. Good to know the cost isn't too exorbitant either; I suppose I can arrange around 300€ for my Volvo's sake. It's such a relief to be able to discuss these things with someone who's gone through the same ordeal. I'll definitely get a hold of a trusted mechanic and see what they have to say about the alternator. Thanks for the advice and fingers crossed! Cheers!

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