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BriKoch19

XC70 automatic transmission shifting issues

My 2013 Volvo XC70 diesel with 213852 km is exhibiting strange automatic transmission behavior. The transmission indicator light is on intermittently, shifting is erratic, and it occasionally enters emergency mode. I suspect it might be related to the condition of the transmission oil, possibly worsened by undervoltage. Has anyone else experienced this?

Summary of the thread

A 2013 Volvo XC70 with 213,852 km was experiencing erratic shifting, an intermittent transmission indicator light, and occasional emergency mode activation. The suspected cause was worn transmission oil, potentially exacerbated by undervoltage issues. The suggested solution was to replace the transmission oil and check the battery's health. After replacing the transmission oil, the shifting issues were resolved.

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4 comment(s)

samuel_hunter52

That sounds concerning. Worn transmission oil can definitely cause those symptoms, especially the emergency mode. When was the last time you had a transmission flush? It might also be worth checking the overall health of your battery, as undervoltage can definitely throw things off in modern cars with complex electronics. Has the car been struggling to start lately, or have you noticed any other electrical problems?

BriKoch19 (community.author)

I haven't done a transmission flush yet. The battery seems fine; no starting issues or other electrical problems. Could a weak battery, even if it starts the car, still cause transmission issues?

samuel_hunter52

It's tricky, but yes, potentially. A battery nearing its end might have enough voltage to start the car, but its ability to handle sudden load changes or maintain a stable voltage under stress could be compromised. These voltage fluctuations can absolutely mess with the transmission control unit. Since you haven't done a transmission flush, I'd strongly suggest starting there, but also have the battery load tested to rule it out. Considering the symptoms and mileage, a visit to a trusted workshop might be beneficial for a thorough diagnostic.

BriKoch19 (community.author)

I took your advice and had the transmission oil replaced and a diagnostic performed. The workshop confirmed the automatic transmission oil was worn, and replacing it resolved the shifting issues. The repair cost 240€, thanks for the help.

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VOLVO

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XC70