Diesel Volvo mechanic near Santa Cruz, CA

[Retirement Dream]

The ignition switch in my 2014 R27 SC Volvo-Penta D3-200 is showing a solid red light error code and the engine won't start. The manual says this means there is a problem with the key fob. Only problem with that is that I have been operating the boat for the last 3 years without a key fob. I didn't even know it was supposed to have one!

I called Volvo to find a mechanic somewhere near me (Santa Cruz, CA) and they gave me a list. However, when I called everyone on the list they all said that they did not and would not work on a diesel engine or any system attached to one.

Do any of you know of a Volvo diesel mechanic anywhere near Santa Cruz, CA? Or, do you know what my problem with the ignition switch might be?

Thanks,
Scott

 

[Kevin Lamont]

The ignition switch in my 2014 R27 SC Volvo-Penta D3-200 is showing a solid red light error code and the engine won't start. The manual says this means there is a problem with the key fob. Only problem with that is that I have been operating the boat for the last 3 years without a key fob. I didn't even know it was supposed to have one!

I called Volvo to find a mechanic somewhere near me (Santa Cruz, CA) and they gave me a list. However, when I called everyone on the list they all said that they did not and would not work on a diesel engine or any system attached to one.

Do any of you know of a Volvo diesel mechanic anywhere near Santa Cruz, CA? Or, do you know what my problem with the ignition switch might be?

Thanks,
Scott

Scott,

I assume since you haven't been using a fob you don't have one? If the red light is flashing that indicates the ignition is locked and needs the fob to unlock the system. If you don't have the fob you will need to order one or two and have them programmed at a Volvo Penta shop. Have you tried reaching out to Volvo direct to see if they have a dealer listed online that is close to you? Hope all this helps.

Thanks,
Kevin Lamont

 

[NorCal]

Scott, I know they are not close but I have had great luck with Helmut's in San Rafael. It might me worth a call to speak with them. I think they are the largest Volvo Penta shop in the bay area. If they can't help you out hopefully they know someone.

John

 

[Hydraulicjump]

I want to second the Helmut's recommendation. Expensive, but very good. They will come to you, but charge a steep rate for the mechanic's time. Better to see if you can work this out over the phone.

And of course, you have completely powered everything off in order to reboot this, correct? I keep a fob hidden on the boat over fears that this would happen. Good luck!

 

[S@LTD]

If you go to Helmut’s suggest you go by water. I trailered my boat there at their request as they claimed limited space even though they have a dock. I later learned they charged me $375 to launch and retrieve my boat when I could have done it for $15. Also being on a trailer you are not priority so your boat will sit more (3 weeks despite having an appointment 3 months in advance, off season (Jan) and all I wanted was a drive shaft alignment check per maintenance log and a Volvo recall item for an alternator wire). After allowing them to launch and load my boat along with the sitting it came back a mess. Yes very expensive too. If I can avoid them I will go elsewhere.