How To Test & Replace An SPA Volvo Auxiliary Battery (Volvo S60, S80, XC70 & More)

The start/stop feature on Volvos of the last few years has contributed to lowering harmful greenhouse-gas emissions from the entire Volvo range. The only downside to this feature is the toll it has on the electrical system. To combat the extra strain the constant starting has on the battery, Volvo uses a smaller auxiliary battery to shoulder the engine starting duties while driving. Because of the battery's small size, the car's infrequent use will cause the battery to go flat or fail altogether.

Compared to the previous generation of Volvo, the SPA chassis' auxiliary battery is easy to reach. With a couple of tools, you'll be able to check and replace the battery in a few minutes. Make sure to follow the steps below to avoid any potential dangers of working with a live current.

Volvo models and years applicable:

Symptoms of a failing Volvo auxiliary battery:

• Trouble starting while using the start/stop function
• "Start/stop service required" message on dashboard

You're only going to notice a potential issue when using the start/stop function. If the car struggles to start, the auxiliary battery could be struggling to hold a charge. If the warning message appears on the dashboard, checking the battery's charge is the first step to solving the issue.

What will it cost to check and replace the auxiliary battery on my SPA Volvo?

A new Volvo auxiliary battery is roughly $110. Assuming you have the tools, there isn't anything else you'll need for this DIY. 

How long will it take to check and replace the auxiliary battery on my SPA Volvo?

The battery is easily accessible in the back of the engine bay. Checking and replacing the battery will take less than 20 minutes.

Parts required to check and replace the auxiliary battery on your SPA Volvo:

• Volvo Auxiliary Battery

Tools required to check and replace the auxiliary battery on your SPA Volvo:

• 8mm Socket
• Ratchet
• Ratchet Extension
• Multimeter

Steps required to check and replace the auxiliary battery on your SPA Volvo:

Step 1: Check the battery's voltage

The battery sits next to the driver's side strut tower in the engine bay. 

Use an 8mm socket to remove the two bolts that secure the battery cover over the battery. Then, take out your multimeter and set it to the 20V setting. Place the red probe on the positive battery terminal and the black probe on the negative terminal.

If the multimeter is reading anything below 12 volts, you'll need to replace the battery. 

Step 2: Replace the battery

Place the 8mm socket onto the ratchet extension and remove the bolt for each battery cable. Tuck the cables aside after you remove the mounting bolt to prevent any arcing.

Next, pull out the old battery and put in the new one. Then, reconnect the battery cables. Place the battery cover atop the battery and secure it down with its two 8mm bolts. Use the 8mm socket to snug up the bolts. 

And there you have it, a freshly replaced auxiliary battery. The start/stop warning message will go away once you drive the vehicle about twenty miles. If it doesn't disappear, head to your local Volvo dealership and have them clear the message manually. If you're interested in more DIYs for your Volvo, you can visit volvo.fcpeuro.com or subscribe to our YouTube channel. 

---

Written by :

Christian Schaefer

Car and motorsports-obsessed writer/editor for FCP Euro's DIY Blog. Constantly dreaming of competing behind the wheel or searching for another project. Owner of a Subaru Forester XT and a Porsche 914.