S90 Diesel PTC Heater Issue

I have a 2019 Volvo S90 with a diesel engine, currently at 58320 km. I've been experiencing poor engine running during cold starts, especially now the weather's turned. I had the car scanned, and it has an error stored relating to the PTC heater. I've also noticed higher fuel consumption recently. From what I've researched, it seems like the electric auxiliary heater – the PTC heater – might be defective. Does this sound like a plausible cause? Anyone else had similar issues? I'm trying to get an idea of what I am facing before going to the workshop.

4 comment(s)

Sounds very familiar! I had almost identical symptoms with my S90. Error code, rough cold starts, and the fuel consumption definitely jumped up. Did you notice if the heating in the cabin was affected too or only the engine?

Thanks for the quick reply! The cabin heating seems normal, it warms up okay. So, if it was the same for you, was it definitely the PTC heater? And if you don't mind me asking, what was the damage to repair it?

Yep, in my case, it was the PTC heater. Since the cabin was warming up that is more than likely the culprit. I'd recommend getting it checked out by a workshop to confirm, but be prepared for possibly needing a new heating element. Not the end of the world, happened to me on my previous car as well.

Thanks a lot for the information! I really appreciate you sharing your experience. I took it to my local mechanic today, and after diagnosis, it's confirmed - the PTC heater is indeed defective. They quoted me around 350€ for the replacement and labor. It seems like a fair price based on what I've read online. Thanks again!

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