2004 Volvo S40 2004 S40

2004 VOLVO S40
96,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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04S40
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My volvo's "check engine" light flashes when I pass on highway speeds. It has a hard time increasing rpms. When I pull-over I can feel the engine shake in bursts every 8 seconds or so. Sometimes this shaking happens when the car is idling and even when I haven't raised the rpms significantly. It has a hard time starting, especially when this happens. I can hear the starter going but it may take up to 4 seconds for the engine to start.

The S40 is a turbocharged 2004 with close to 100k miles.

Any insight is greatly appreciated. Thanks!
May 26, 2008 at 4:14 AM
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MERLIN2021
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First thing you need to do is have the codes read, Autozone does it free, Post the results with the code number(s). Even if the service engine light is not on, there should be freeze frame data stored.
If it won't make it to Autozone, buy a cheap scanner, they can be had for 30-40 dollars, a good investment, since they cover all cars sold in the USA from 96 on...
May 26, 2008 at 7:59 AM
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DOCHAGERTY
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A flashing or blinking check engine light is an indicator that there is converter damage occurring. Possibly a plugged cat.
May 26, 2008 at 9:30 AM
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