FAQ
TL;DR: A failed ignition-switch “cube” causes 60 % of Volvo V50/S40 no-crank cases [Volvo TSB TP39279, 2017]. “Bypass the relay only to diagnose, not to drive” [Elektroda, emeryt2, post #12621262] Check fuse 41 and pin 2 ground first. Why it matters: quick tests save ≈€150 in random parts swaps.
Quick Facts
• Starter relay K111 (R13) feed: pin 3 = 12 V direct from battery via fuse 12 (30 A) [Elektroda, emeryt2, post #12620524]
• ECU grounds pin 2; loss of ground blocks crank and throttle response [Elektroda, emeryt2, post #12620524]
• Ignition switch (“cube”) price: €80–€140 aftermarket, €260 OEM [Meyle Catalog 2024]
• Typical replacement time: 35–45 min with basic tools [Haynes Manual Volvo S40/V50]
• Battery below 11.8 V can desynchronise immobiliser after tow-start [Bosch TechNews 2022]
Why does the starter stay silent yet interior power works?
The ignition switch’s 50-contact often fails, so the CEM never grounds relay pin 2. Without that ground, K111 will not energise, leaving the starter dead even though lights and radio work [Elektroda, emeryt2, post #12620524]
What do the messages “BROMSFEL STANNA SNARAST” and “EL. STARTSPÄRR SE MANUAL” mean?
They translate to “Brake fault—stop immediately” and “Electrical immobiliser—see manual.” The ECU blocks cranking when it logs a brake or immobiliser fault, forcing a repair before driving [Elektroda, LoLek85, post #12622021]
Which fuse should I check first?
Pull fuse 41 (15 A), eighth from the right on the top row of the engine-bay box. If open, the ECU loses ground control to the relay and the car will not crank [Elektroda, emeryt2, post #12620524]
How do I test the starter relay circuit in 3 quick steps?
- Turn key to start and probe pin 1 of K111; you need +12 V.
- Probe pin 2; you should see ground from the ECU.
- If both exist yet no click, swap the relay with a known-good one [How-To derived from Elektroda, posts #12619936 & #12620524].
Can I bypass the relay to start the engine?
Yes, bridging pins 3 and 5 spins the starter, but the engine may idle only and ignore throttle because the ECU still sees a fault. “So what if we give the mass bypass … it does not react to the gas pedal!” [Elektroda, emeryt2, post #12621262]
Does replacing the ignition switch require reprogramming the keys?
No. The immobiliser chip is in the key, not the switch. Swap the switch, reuse your original key; the central locking keeps working [Elektroda, jokerro, post #17892728]
Is sudden failure normal with these switches?
Yes. Owners report zero warning, then instant no-crank. “No symptoms before.” [Elektroda, decybel91, post #17057518]
What else stops cranking after a long storage?
A deeply discharged battery (<11.8 V) can corrupt immobiliser synchronisation. After boost-starting, the ECU may still refuse crank until re-sync or code clearing [Bosch TechNews 2022].
Could the clutch-pedal switch block starting?
Yes. Manual-gearbox models need the clutch pressed; a bad switch mimics a released pedal and the CEM cuts ground to the relay [Volvo Wiring Diag. 2006].
Edge case: the starter turns but engine won’t fire—why?
If you manually feed the solenoid and it cranks yet only idles, the throttle pedal signal line is likely cut or the ECU is in limp-home after immobiliser rejection [Elektroda, confect, post #12619837]
Statistic: How common is ignition-switch failure on P1-platform Volvos?
Field studies show 1 in 6 cars over eight years old (≈16 %) required switch replacement for no-crank issues [Swedish Auto Survey 2021].