I’m a longtime 2007 XC70 owner (190k miles) reaching out in a tough spot and hoping for some guidance or help.
This past weekend, I was driving from Massachusetts to Vermont (about 200 miles), when things suddenly took a turn for the worse. After a quick stop to use the restroom, I got back on the highway and immediately noticed something was off. The car felt sluggish—accelerator pressed down, but acceleration was very slow. Then I heard a deep, low humming noise that sounded tire-related. A blinking check engine light came on. (Worth noting: I had four brand new tires installed the day before this trip.) About a mile later, I pulled into a weigh station, concerned. As I slowed to a stop, the engine began running extremely rough—duh-duh-duh-duh-duh—like it was in limp mode. Alarmed, I got out to check the car. No visible issues: oil level was fine, coolant was fine, nothing was smoking, no lug nuts missing.
I got back on the road—still with the blinking CEL and rough running. Oddly, once I reached 70 mph, the car seemed to smooth out and the humming went away. The sound would return only when I pressed the accelerator. Knowing something was seriously wrong, I began looking for a mechanic off the highway.About 8 miles later, I made it to a reputable local shop with a technician who has 15 years of Volvo experience.
Here’s the diagnosis:
- Cylinders 1, 2, and 4 are misfiring
- Cylinder 2 has no compression
- The mechanic’s conclusion: the engine is toast
I’m stunned. This car has been meticulously maintained:
- Oil changed every 5k miles (last one was 500 miles ago)
- Annual maintenance and fluid services
- No history of engine trouble whatsoever
I’ve owned it for 5 years and taken great care of it. It’s in otherwise excellent shape, and I never would have taken it on a long drive had I suspected any engine issues.
As of now, I’m faced with three options:
- Replace the engine
- Rebuild/bore the cylinders (not financially realistic)
- Junk the car
I’m reaching out because I genuinely don’t know what to do next, and I’m hoping for some insight, advice, or resources from someone who understands these cars deeply. If there’s anything you can do to help or suggest—whether it’s a used engine source, a trustworthy shop, or just a second opinion—I’d be so grateful.
Thank you so much for reading this and for any support or direction you can provide. I’m feeling overwhelmed and trying to make the best decision I can for a car I’ve truly cared for.
Sincerely,
Pearl