Volvo 240/740/940 hard to start when cold: cold start valve
In the morning the starter cranks, the engine only starts after several attempts – and once it is warm, everything runs normally. On Volvo models of the 240, 740, 760, 780 and 940 series with Bosch injection, this is a typical picture when the cold start valve no longer works properly. This guide shows how to recognize a defective valve, how to test it yourself and which part number belongs to your car of model years 1988 to 1995.
Symptoms
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Cold engine starts poorly, warm engine starts without problems | Cold start valve does not open (coil defective, nozzle gummed up) or receives no signal from the thermo time switch |
| Engine runs too rich at idle, smells of gasoline or floods | Cold start valve leaking – fuel drips into the intake manifold even with a warm engine |
| Cold start irregular despite clicking valve | Wrong spray pattern or wrong delivery quantity of the valve |
| Starting problems only after a long standing period; after a short stop it starts fine | More likely system pressure dropping, e.g. fuel accumulator – see Fuel accumulator guide (using Mercedes as an example, principle identical) |
Causes
The cold start valve is an electromagnetic injector. When starting the cold engine, the thermo time switch briefly sends voltage to the valve, which opens and sprays additional fuel, finely atomized, into the intake manifold. With a warm engine it stays closed.
After three decades, the nozzle and valve seat clog with deposits from old fuel, the solenoid coil can fail, and sealing surfaces lose their effectiveness. The result is either a valve that no longer opens at all or one that no longer closes completely. From the outside, the valve usually shows none of this.
Testing it yourself
- Read off the part number: Check the stamped Bosch number on the installed valve. For Volvo 240/740/760/780/940 from 1988, it should read 0 280 170 413. A different number may already be the cause.
- Visual inspection: Check the connector, cables and fuel connection for corrosion, breaks and damp spots. Traces of fuel at the flange point to a leaking gasket or a leaking valve.
- 12 V click test: With the engine cold and the ignition off, pull off the connector and briefly apply 12 V to the two contacts. A clear click shows that the coil is switching. No click: valve defective.
- Check the valve control: If the valve clicks, measure at the connector during a cold start whether voltage arrives. If it does not, the cause lies in the thermo time switch or the wiring.
- Check for leaks: If the warm engine runs too rich, remove the valve (two bolts on the 2-hole flange) and check for dripping under system pressure. Pay attention to fire safety and good ventilation.
Solution
A defective cold start valve cannot be repaired economically – it is a sealed solenoid valve. The sensible solution is replacement with a function-tested genuine part. We offer the Bosch cold start valve 0 280 170 413 (Volvo 3517130) as a used genuine part that was tested on the test bench – not aftermarket. The price is 149,00 € per piece, currently 5 pieces are in stock. The photos show the actual part.
Important when comparing: On the 0 280 170 412 only the last digit differs – that is a Mercedes or Ferrari valve. Also not compatible are 0 280 170 404 (Volvo 462865, older version up to about 1984), 0 280 170 445 (Volvo 3517065, intermediate version) and the Audi valve 0 280 170 419. The Mercedes variants are explained in our guide Checking and replacing the cold start valve on the W124.
The flange gasket is not included in the scope of delivery – plan for a new gasket when replacing it.
Bosch cold start valve 0 280 170 413 / Volvo 3517130
Volvo 240, 740, 760, 780, 940 · Model years 1988–1995 · tested on the test bench
149,00 € per piece
View offer →You can find more parts in the collections Other makes and Fuel system & injection.
Compatible vehicles
| Model series | Models |
|---|---|
| Volvo 240 (1988–1993) | 240 sedan 2.0 / 2.3, 240 wagon 2.0 / 2.3 |
| Volvo 740 / 760 / 780 (1988–1992) | 740 sedan and wagon 2.0 / 2.3, 760 (1989), 780 (1989) |
| Volvo 940 (1991–1995) | 940 |
Does not fit Volvo 240/260 up to 1984 (use 0 280 170 404 for those), Mercedes-Benz (0 280 170 403, 412 or 447) and BMW (0 280 170 043). If in doubt, send us your VIN (chassis number) and model year – we will check free of charge whether the part fits.
FAQ
How do I know that the cold start valve on my Volvo is defective?
Typical are starting difficulties with a cold engine. If the valve is leaking instead, the engine runs too rich at idle or floods. The 12 V click test and a visual inspection of the flange let you narrow down the valve quickly.
Which cold start valve fits Volvo 240, 740 and 940 from 1988?
For Volvo 240 (1988–1993), 740/760/780 (1988–1992) and 940 (1991–1995), the Bosch cold start valve 0 280 170 413 with Volvo number 3517130 is intended. The stamped number on your old part is always what counts.
Can I install a 0280170412 instead of the 0280170413?
No. On the 0 280 170 412 only the last digit differs, but it is a Mercedes or Ferrari valve. The older Volvo versions 0 280 170 404 (up to about 1984) and 0 280 170 445 are also different parts.
Is the flange gasket included with the cold start valve?
No, the flange gasket is not included in the scope of delivery. Since the valve sits on the intake manifold via a 2-hole flange with a gasket, you should have a new gasket ready when replacing it.
Do I have to send in my old cold start valve?
No. No core deposit is charged and you don't need to return anything.
KFZTeile-Thot is a specialist business for tested and refurbished Mercedes parts with its own test benches – and also carries selected tested classic parts of other makes such as this Volvo cold start valve. Over 1,000 positive eBay reviews speak for our work. Questions about the part or the fit? Call us: +49 179 8991069 (Mon–Fri 8 am–6 pm) or use our contact form.