XC40 Belt Handover Issue

I had a similar issue on my XC40, though it presented slightly differently. To me, it sounds as if the belt tensioner has gone bad. Consider a chain reaction: if the initial domino (the tensioner) is weak, the entire sequence fails. Have you noticed any unusual noises, like a high-pitched squeal, before the handover stopped working entirely? Did you check for other issues related to pulley alignment before assuming that it's the belt tensioner?

Thanks for the reply! I did notice a faint squeal a few times before it went completely. As for pulley alignment, I haven't checked that specifically. It's difficult to pinpoint without proper tools and expertise. Do you think pulley alignment could be the root cause even with the handover issue?

It is difficult to say definitively without a thorough inspection, but misalignment can certainly exacerbate tensioner problems and lead to premature failure. That being said, given the symptoms you've described, particularly the squeal preceding the complete failure, a defective tensioner is the more probable culprit. I suggest taking it to a trusted Volvo workshop to get a professional diagnosis.

Thanks for the advice! I took it to the workshop, and you were spot on – it was the belt tensioner, exactly as suspected. The total came to around 455€ including parts and labor. All sorted now!