VOLVO
ECM-9290 - Engine control module (ECM). Faulty signal
System
Engine Control Module (ECM)
Volvo models this fault code applies to
Applies to the following models:
5 modelsS60 (2001–2009), S80 (1999–2006), V70 (2000–2008), V70 XC / XC70 (2001–2007), XC90 (2003–)
Show models by year and engine (10)
- Volvo S60 (2001–2009)2005–2006Engine B5204T5, B5244T4, B5244T5, B5254T2, B5254T4 only
- Volvo S80 (1999–2006)2005–2006Engine B5204T5, B5244T4, B5254T2, B6294S2, B6294T only
- Volvo V70 (2000–2008)2005Engine B5204T5, B5244T4, B5244T5, B5254T2, B5254T4 only
- Volvo V70 (2000–2008)2006Engine B5204T5, B5244T5, B5254T2, B5254T4 only
- Volvo V70 XC / XC70 (2001–2007)2005All engines except: D5244T
- Volvo V70 XC / XC70 (2001–2007)2006Engine B5244T4, B5254T2 only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2005–2006Engine B5254T2, B6294T only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2007–2012Engine B5254T2 only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2013–2014Engine B5254T9 only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2015
What does this fault code mean?
The engine control module (ECM) controls the throttle angle with an internal governor. Although the code is titled faulty signal, it is stored when the ECM finds the governor damaged, or its control signal running to an extreme while the throttle is controlled. The fault is checked with the engine running and can be permanent or sporadic.
Possible causes
- The throttle sticks or is blocked by oil film or dust
- Contact resistance or oxidation in the connectors between the ECM and the throttle unit
- Open circuit, or short to ground or supply voltage, in the wiring to the throttle motor
- The throttle motor wires shorted to each other
- A damaged throttle unit
- Faulty software in the ECM
What you can do
- 1If you have a diagnostic tool: read the fault status with the engine running. Fault found means permanent, and No fault found means sporadic and not active right now
- 2Check that the connectors at the throttle unit and the ECM are secure and free from corrosion
- 3Check that the throttle is not blocked by any object and not sticking. Clean as needed
- 4Use a multimeter on the throttle motor wiring for open circuit, contact with ground or supply voltage, and a short between the wires
- 5If you have a diagnostic tool: check in the parameters that the throttle unit adaptation is complete and shows OK. The adaptation itself is carried out by a workshop
- 6If the fault remains after this, faulty software in the ECM may be the cause. A workshop downloads and installs new software
Symptoms you may notice2
- Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) on
- Engine performance is reduced
What the fault can affect1
- The ECM cuts power to the throttle motor, and the throttle goes to its spring-loaded return position
General guidance for car owners. Diagnosis on the car can point to a different cause.