Volvo V50 VANOS Failure

Indeed, your symptoms are highly indicative of a VANOS failure, specifically affecting the inlet camshaft. Although I drive a BMW, I once encountered a comparable issue with my E90's VANOS system, which presented similar symptoms. In my case, the root cause was traced to malfunctioning solenoid valves responsible for controlling oil flow to the VANOS unit. Do you hear any unusual noises from the engine, particularly during cold starts or when accelerating?

Thanks for the insight! I haven't noticed any unusual noises. Just the check engine light and the increased fuel consumption. When your BMW had this issue, did it also impact the engine's performance? And how did you eventually diagnose the faulty solenoid valve for sure?

The performance was noticeably affected; the engine felt sluggish, particularly at lower RPMs. Regarding diagnostics, a workshop will perform a series of tests, including checking the electrical signals to the solenoid valves and inspecting the valves themselves for any mechanical faults or blockages. Given the diagnostic code you've retrieved, it strongly suggests an issue within the VANOS system. Considering the potential complexity, it may be prudent to consult a trusted mechanic to perform a thorough evaluation.

Thanks for the advice! I suspected it might be beyond my capabilities. I took it to a workshop, and they confirmed it was a faulty solenoid valve on the inlet camshaft. The repair cost me around 250€, but at least the check engine light is gone and my fuel consumption is back to normal!