VOLVO
ECM-0003 - Needle lift sensor. Signal too low. Intermittent fault.
System
Engine Control Module (ECM)
Volvo models this fault code applies to
This fault code has different meanings depending on model, model year or engine. Select the meaning that applies to your car.
Applies to the following models:
4 modelsS70 (1997–2000), S80 (1999–2006), V70 (1997–2000), V70 (2000–2008)
What does this fault code mean?
The engine control module has received too low a signal from the needle lift sensor. The fault is recorded as intermittent, meaning it comes and goes, and may not be present right now. It can cause poor acceleration, a sluggish engine and knocking at idle, and boost pressure and exhaust gas recirculation are limited.
Possible causes
- The signal wire is shorted to earth
- Break in the signal or earth wire
- Contact resistance in the connections
- Faulty needle lift sensor
What you can do
- 1Check the wires and connections to the needle lift sensor for chafing, play and corrosion
- 2Because the fault is intermittent, road test the car and note the engine speed, load or temperature at which the problem appears
- 3Measure with a multimeter that the signal and earth wires to the needle lift sensor have no break, and that the signal wire is not shorted to earth
- 4Clear the fault code and road test the car. If it returns, have a workshop with diagnostic equipment investigate the needle lift sensor and the engine control module
- 5Replacing the needle lift sensor is a workshop task
Symptoms you may notice2
- The car accelerates poorly and feels sluggish
- The engine knocks at idle
What the fault can affect2
- Boost pressure is limited to the basic level
- Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) is switched off
General guidance for car owners. Diagnosis on the car can point to a different cause.