Troubleshoot Volvo XC90 Low Beam Bulb Failure in 4 Steps!
Experiencing Volvo xc90 low beam bulb failure can be confusing as it’s tricky to fix. The causes can vary and you need to do quite a bit of inspection for exacting the actual problem.
Generally, the low beam bulb will malfunction from weak relays or connection issues, fuse problems, wiring errors, damaged Xenon bulbs, and CEM-related troubles. However, it may or not be limited to these common causes, so professional help might be necessary.
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4 Main Causes Behind Volvo Xc90 Low Beam Bulb Failure
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As I said, this tricky problem can be rooted in several difficult-to-detect issues. However, below I have listed 4 common problems that can fail the low beam bulb in Volvo xc90.
Reason #1: Due To a Weak Relay or Connection
Exactly what causes low beam failure? The most common cause behind low beam failure in xc90 is a weak headlight relay, resistor, or connection issue. This can result in the error message for an intermittent period.
Connection issues can not only the low beam bulb but also other areas of xc90 if not fixed early. A common target is the radio unit, which may stop working suddenly.
For the 2017 Volvo xc90 low beam bulb failure, try using the on/off switch a few times. This should temporarily fix this problem.
Solution: Check the Relay CM17 that you should find right above the pedals in the driver’s footwell. Replace it and see if this fixes the issue. Some owners share that this fixes their 2016 Volvo xc90 low-beam bulb failure.
You may also need to check the connection box right between the headlight unit. Look for any loose connections or corrosion. Clean, retighten, or replace the problematic connection points.
Reason #2: Fuse and Wiring Errors
If I were dealing with a 2004, 2005, or 2007 Volvo xc90 low beam bulb failure, I would start checking for faulty fuse and wiring. These years had issues with the power supply affecting the dimmed lights.
Probably it is a case of burnt headlight fuse. If so, you shall find the “Low beam bulb failure” on the driver’s side recurrently.
This is especially true for the Bi-Xenon bulbs by the way. Also, if you have recently changed any fuse, make sure it is not burning out and leading to non-functional headlights.
Such repeated fuse failure is a clear sign of circuit failure. It can not only cause low beam but high beam errors on the driver side. A sign of this is encountering condensation in the headlight, which further complicates the problem.
Solution: Check the fuses and make sure they are feed passing accurately. Consider reconnecting or replacing any loose or corroded wires at the removable light unit.
You should also do something about chafing, bare wires. Make sure the headlight is not misaligned and correctly seated. Hence shorting against the frame can lead to the scene.
Reason #3: Xenon Bulb Failure
Filament breakage or contact problems with the Xenon bulbs can cause intermitted low beam issues with Volvo xc90. The unit may require replacement.
When it comes to identifying nearly-dead xenon bulbs, Powerbulbs suggests looking for this major red flag. The bulb would start shining in a yellowish color.
Now, if you have tried replacing the bulb and burnt-out fuse, but there’s no improvement, ballast problems might be the case. It can also appear from ignitor wiring harness connection errors.
With 2004, 2006, and 2008 Volvo xc90, continuous melting of the connectors requiring replacement again and again, is also a big sign of ballast issues.
Solutions: If the Xenon bulb keeps flashing off and on, it needs replacement. You should also check for corroded connections at the removable light unit to clean or change them. Also, consider replacing the faulty ballast.
Reason #4: CEM Related Problem
Power disruption can cause the 2014 Volvo xc90 low beam bulb failure. To be more specific, the CEM or the control unit must be having some issues that are contributing to the low beam bulb failure. This may pair with further issues such as showing “start prevented, try again” error.
Solutions: Find the fault codes by performing a diagnostic check on the CEM unit. Once confirmed, you need to replace the unit. Also, consider checking for loose wires or sorts in the passenger footwell located connector block. Tighten or replace the wires as needed.
Replacing The Low Beam Bulb in Volvo XC90
In some severe scenarios, you may need to move forward by replacing the low-beam bulb. But how do you know if your low-beam bulb is bad enough to require a replacement?
The low beam bulb is bad and requires replacement if you notice one or more of some signs. This includes dim headlights, flickering of the bulb, repeated blowing of the fuses, or simply the entire headlights failing.
You may also encounter problems with low beams while high beams are doing fine, that’s a sign too.
Wrapping Up
The Volvo xc90 low beam bulb failure situation can indeed arise from several problems. I have tried to include the most common ones in this guide.
However, sometimes troubleshooting can be tricky. Some specific errors with the system can lead to low beam bulb failure along with other issues in your Volvo sc90.
So, if you find it confusing to determine the exact cause, I would recommend getting expert help. This is necessary and unavoidable in some complex cases.
I’ll see you soon in my next guide, take care!
