Why does my Volvo S40 randomly refuse to start?

Question:
I have a 2001 S40 and for 8 months I've been dealing with a starting problem. The problem only happens when the car is cold, but doesn't happen all the time. When it does happen, the car turns over, but doesn't start... unless I spend about 10 minutes cranking and giving it gas. Sometimes the CEL is on, sometimes not. At first, the dealer couldn't diagnose it. Finally, they replaced the fuel pressure regulator. Things seemed ok for a month or two, but then it happened again. Took it to an independent shop, and eventually they replaced the plugs, coils, and cabling. Seemed to be ok, but then had the problem again. I just had it back at the dealer for a few days for the same problem and this time they told me the compression valves needed to be cleaned ($325). Had it done, picked it up yesterday morning, and tested the car when it was cold before I paid. Seemed fine. But this morning it wouldn't start again. Any ideas? I've completely lost faith in my mechanics. Thanks!

Answers:

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Your car is not a bad car. It is not a bad car because Ford took over Volvo.

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Firstly this issue is most likely related to your security system not reading the key correctly. You do not need to leave the key in the ignition for 10 minutes. Get out of the car put the key in the door lock and unlock the car manually. After you do this it will reset the electrical system in the car it should start. There are a couple issues. Possible antenna ring not reading correctly. Possible multiple keys on one key chain interfering with each other.

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There are some possible issues with wiring going from the ring to the Imobilizer module (The computer that lets the car start after it reads the key).

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You need to find a dealer that will take the time to read the codes in the car and knows what they are doing.

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Oh and by the way to all the people that read this. The S40 was a joint venture between Volvo and Mitsubishi. Don't bash the car if you do not know much about it. Ford has done nothing bad for Volvo.

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It's a good car you just need to find the right person to fix it.

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Any Mechanic can replace brake pads and rotors, it takes a good Technician to diagnose and troubleshoot an intermittent electrical problem.

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You are going to have trouble finding this problem. You may have to leave it at the mechanic's for several days. He needs to hook it up to the computer and start it every morning until it does it to him. Then the computer should tell you what the problem is. I know it's a hassle, but sometimes it's the only way to find an intermittent problem. Good luck.

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After Ford took over Volvo they installed their security key system in them. If you have a key with a chip it can cause this. Fords do it all the time. the reason it takes 10 minutes is that's how long it takes the computer to reset. If it happens leave the ignition in the run or on position for 10 minutes, the CEL light should go off, if you can start your car after this amount of time you may want to have the dealer check the security system, and your key.
It sounds like this car is costing you a lot of extra money, I personally would sell it or trade it.

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It's a 2001 Volvo. Swedish for Ford. These cars are not as good as they used to be. That year had lots of electrical problems. Check the fuel pump relays and the cap and rotor. Since it is out of warranty unless you have VIP. I would sell it. It will be nothing but heartache.

what should i do??

i have the same problem!!!, what i do is, when i turn it on and gets off, i take the keys off, open and close the door, and i try to turn it on, and it gets on...i dont know why
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