Volvo C30 continuously going into limp mode

I have a 2008 Volvo C30, which has developed a fault that the garage seem unable to find. The car will suddenly flag up a warning saying "Reduced Engine Performance" and then go into Limp mode. If I pull over and switch off, and re-start it will normally clear and run normally.

This can happen 4 - 5 times over the first 10 miles and then it seems to clear, although it will happen once or twice again on a long journey. The garage have changed the fuel filter and also the mass air flow sensor, but still the problem is there. Any ideas as to what might be causing this?

Asked on 24 April 2015 by C30 Limp Mode

Answered by Honest John

A standard quirk of this engine ever since it was first introduced in the Focus in 2004. I'd guess maybe mass airflow sensor, maybe EGR cooler, maybe the core of the cat converter is broken up and occasionally blocking the exhaust.

Tags: technical issues limp mode

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