Can You Drive Your Volvo S60 with Check Engine Light On?

A car is something that gives you freedom of mobility– but it is a machine nonetheless. And, just like any other machine, it can’t talk to you. However, it can communicate with you by other means. For instance, it can report a problem by turning on one of the warning lights located on its dash. And, to do so, it takes the help of an onboard diagnostic system or OBD and a network of sensors.

Check engine light illumination is your car's way of informing you that there is an issue; possibly with the engine. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the common reasons why the check engine light of your Volvo S60 may come on and what you can do to reset it. Besides, you will also get to know how many miles can you drive with the check engine light on. So, let's get started.

What Could Cause The Check Engine Light To Come On?

Gas cap- It's probably loose

The gas cap; we all know what it does... right? For those who don’t know, the gas cap is a device that seals off the gas tank. By doing so, it ensures that none other than fuel is entering the gas tank. In addition, it prevents fuel loss due to evaporation and maintains optimum pressure within the fuel delivery system.

So, no matter how insignificant this component may seem to you... but, it is an important component nonetheless. A loose or faulty gas cap can destabilize pressure within the fuel system. And, when the 'fuel tank pressure sensor' finds out about this disturbance, it would induce the OBD system to turn on the check engine light.

O2 sensor- It’s likely faulty

Another common cause of check engine light illumination in a car is a faulty O2 sensor. What’s that, you asked? Well, the O2 or oxygen sensor is one of those things that not many people know about. It was invented by Robert Bosch GmbH. And, almost all modern vehicles come fitted with this sensor.

It essentially measures the concentration of oxygen in the exhaust gas and helps the engine control unit or ECU to dynamically regulate the air-to-fuel ratio within the combustion chamber. So, obviously… if it goes bad, a car engine will run reach or lean and would consume more fuel than usual. According to a report published by fuel economy. "Repairing a faulty oxygen sensor can improve fuel economy by as much as 40%!"

Spark plugs- Possible one of them not firing

You can't imagine the existence of an internal combustion engine without spark plugs. So, what makes these components so important? Well, they are capable of generating sparks using electricity—and, that's what makes these tiny components so special. The spark generated by this tiny component ignites air-fuel mixture within the combustion chamber- which ultimately propels the vehicle.

However, spark plugs can wear out over time. And, when that happens, the performance of the engine will suffer. Engine misfire, declined power output, and increased fuel consumption due to defective spark plugs would prompt the onboard diagnostic system to turn on the check engine light.

Catalytic converter- It’s possibly clogged

A 'catalytic converter' is a cylindrical device that uses catalysts (such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium) to break down toxic exhaust gases. It does this by oxidation (addition of oxygen) and reduction (loss of oxygen). If somehow, it clogs up and starts obstructing exhaust flow, engine performance will be affected- which may prompt the OBD system to turn on the check engine light.

How Long Can You Drive Your Volvo S60 with Check Engine Light On?

The answer is: until you reach the nearest car repair shop. The appearance of the check engine light is an indication of engine trouble. And, if you don't do something about it, you could put yourself in serious trouble—one that could cost you thousands of dollars. That's why you should take your car to the nearest car service center as soon as you see the check engine light on its dashboard.

Wrapping Up

The bottom line is- if the check engine light of your Volvo S60 is on; don't drive it for too long. Because, this light usually indicates serious engine problems - which can cost you thousands of dollars if left unattended. Therefore, if the check engine light of your car is blinking, pull over and try to find out what triggered the light. Do not delay contacting the nearest auto service center if the problem appears serious.