One day, while driving my Volvo, I noticed a message on the dashboard: “Volvo Bulb Failure Position Light” At first, I wasn’t sure what it meant. Was it urgent? Could I keep driving? Or did I need to stop right away?
This warning usually means that one of the position lights—also called parking lights—has stopped working. These lights help other drivers see your car in low-light conditions, like at dawn or dusk. If one goes out, your car may still run fine, but your visibility and safety drop. In many places, it’s also a legal requirement to have all exterior lights working.
In this article, I’ll walk you through what this warning means, why it shows up, and how to find and fix the problem. I’ll also explain how to prevent it from happening again and when it’s time to get professional help. Whether you’re driving a Volvo XC60, S60, V70, or XC90, I’ve got tips that can help you handle this issue with confidence.
Let’s get started by understanding what the position light does and why it’s so important.
What Is a Position Light on a Volvo?
When I first saw the term “position light,” I wasn’t quite sure what it meant. But it’s just another name for what most people call parking lights. These are small, low-intensity lights that help other drivers see your car when it’s dark—even if your headlights are off.
The main job of these lights is to mark the corners of your car so others can spot you, especially in poor lighting. They’re not meant to light up the road like headlights. Instead, they give your car visibility when parked on the side of the road or during early mornings and foggy days.
In most Volvos, like the XC60, S60, V70, and XC90, you’ll find the front position lights inside the headlight assembly. They’re usually a soft white or amber color. The rear position lights are in the tail light cluster and glow red.
These lights turn on automatically with your daytime running lights or when you switch to parking mode. So, if one goes out, the car knows—and that’s when the dashboard shows the “Bulb Failure Position Light” message.
What Triggers the “Bulb Failure Position Light” Warning?
This warning doesn’t always mean the bulb is totally dead. From what I’ve seen and dealt with, several things can set it off:
1. Burnt-Out Bulb
This is the most common reason. If the filament breaks inside a halogen bulb, it stops glowing. The car notices the change in electrical flow and shows the warning.
2. Faulty Bulb Socket or Connector
Sometimes, the bulb is fine—but the socket or wiring is loose, dirty, or corroded. If power can’t flow smoothly, the car might think the bulb failed.
3. CAN Bus Communication Error
Volvos use something called a CAN bus system to keep parts of the car talking to each other. If that system gets a glitch—like a voltage drop or interference—it can wrongly report a bulb issue even when the light works.
4. Using the Wrong Type of Bulb
I’ve seen people swap in LED bulbs without resistors in place of halogens. That can confuse the car’s system because LEDs use less power, and the system thinks the bulb is blown.
5. Moisture or Corrosion in the Housing
Water and electricity don’t mix. If moisture gets into the light housing, it can rust the contacts or cause short circuits. That can easily lead to a bulb failure warning.
How to Diagnose the Bulb Failure Warning
When my Volvo first showed the “Bulb Failure Position Light” warning, I thought it would be a quick fix. Sometimes it is—but sometimes it needs a little more digging. Here’s how I go about checking things step by step.
Step 1: Do a Simple Visual Check
I always start with a walk-around.
- First, I turn the ignition to position II (before starting the engine).
- Then I flip on the parking lights. On most Volvos, that means rotating the headlight dial to the parking light symbol.
- Next, I check all corners—front and back—for any light that isn’t glowing like it should.
If you’re working alone, you can prop your phone up behind the car or use a mirror to see the rear lights. Or just ask a friend or neighbor for help.
Look closely for these signs:
- A light that’s dimmer than the others
- Flickering (especially when starting the engine)
- A light that’s completely out
Sometimes a bulb looks fine but isn’t working. That’s why this next step matters.
Step 2: Use a Diagnostic Tool (OBD2 or Volvo VIDA/DICE)
If you’ve got an OBD2 scanner, plug it into the port under your dashboard. Basic scanners can show you if there’s a general lighting fault.
But for deeper info, I like to use Volvo VIDA/DICE. It’s the official tool used by Volvo techs. It gives clear messages about which light is causing trouble, and sometimes even tells you if it’s a wiring issue or a voltage drop.
This tool has saved me hours of guessing—especially on newer models like the XC60 or S60 with LED setups.
Step 3: Narrow It Down
Here’s a quick trick I use to find which side is bad:
- Turn on only one side’s turn signal at a time.
- Then switch to parking lights.
- Compare left and right. If one side is dark, that’s probably your culprit.
You can also pull the bulbs one at a time to inspect them. Check for:
- Broken or burnt filaments inside the bulb
- Blackened glass
- Rust or corrosion on the base of the bulb
If you’re using LED bulbs, check for any signs of discoloration or loose pins on the connectors.
Step 4: Watch for Early Warning Signs
Sometimes a bulb gives you hints before it dies. I’ve noticed these signs in my own cars:
- It works one day, then goes dark the next
- It flickers when the car is cold
- You get random bulb warnings, but everything looks fine
When I see these signs, I replace the bulb early to avoid surprises—especially before a road trip or inspection.
How to Fix a Volvo Position Light Failure
Now comes the part I actually enjoy—fixing it.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Here’s what I usually keep handy:
- A flathead screwdriver
- Gloves (to keep oils off the bulb)
- The right replacement bulb (check your owner’s manual or online lookup by VIN)
For most Volvos, front position lights use W5W or T10 bulbs. Some newer models may have LED modules instead.
Step 2: Replace the Bulb
- Turn off the car and lights.
- Open the hood or trunk, depending on the bulb.
- Remove the light cover or access panel.
- Gently twist the bulb socket and pull it out.
- Swap the old bulb for the new one. Don’t touch the glass part—use gloves or a cloth.
- Reinstall everything in reverse order.
Take your time here. For some models like the XC90 or V70, space can be tight.
Step 3: Reset the Warning Light
In most Volvos, the warning resets itself once the system sees the new bulb working. But if it doesn’t go away:
- Turn the ignition off
- Wait a few seconds
- Turn it back on again
If the message is still there, double-check that the bulb type is correct, and that it’s seated well.
Step 4: What If the New Bulb Doesn’t Work?
This is where things get tricky.
If you’ve replaced the bulb but still see the warning, check these next:
- Look for corrosion or dirt in the socket
- Make sure the wiring isn’t damaged or loose
- Use a multimeter to check for voltage at the socket
If everything looks fine but the warning stays, the problem might be with a module or the CAN bus system. At this point, I usually plug into VIDA/DICE again—or head to a trusted Volvo tech.
Step 5: DIY vs. Professional Help
I love doing my own repairs. It saves money, and it feels good to fix things with my hands. But there are times when it’s smart to go pro.
Go to a mechanic or dealer if:
- You see multiple light warnings at once
- The light housing is full of moisture
- You tried everything and the warning won’t go away
Volvo techs can run full system scans and trace wiring issues that aren’t obvious from a visual check.
Compatible Bulbs and Best Replacements
When the position light on my Volvo went out, I had two big questions: Which bulb do I need? and Should I go with LED or stick to halogen? Let me walk you through what I’ve learned from swapping out a few over the years.
Recommended Bulb Types (OEM vs Aftermarket)
I always start with what Volvo recommends. That’s the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) bulb. It’s what the car was built with. These bulbs fit perfectly, shine just right, and don’t mess with your car’s electrical system.
That said, some aftermarket bulbs work great too. Just make sure they meet DOT or ECE standards. I’ve used Philips and Osram bulbs before with zero issues.
Here’s how I break it down:
- OEM bulbs: Best for fit and factory match. A little pricey.
- Aftermarket bulbs: Cheaper and easier to find. But stick to trusted brands.
LED vs Halogen for Volvo Position Lights
I’ve tried both, and here’s the deal:
- Halogen bulbs are what most Volvos came with. They’re cheap and easy to find. But they burn out quicker.
- LED bulbs last longer, shine brighter, and use less power. The downside? Some Volvos throw a warning message because of the lower power draw. You might need a CANbus adapter to avoid the “bulb failure” alert.
If you drive a newer Volvo, chances are it handles LEDs better. But for older models, halogen might save you a headache.
Model-Specific Bulb Fitment Guide
Use this table to quickly find the right bulb for your Volvo. Always double-check your owner’s manual or pop the bulb out to confirm.
| Volvo Model | Year Range | Position Light Bulb Type |
|---|---|---|
| XC60 | 2009–2017 | W5W (T10) Halogen or LED |
| S60 | 2011–2018 | W5W (T10) Halogen or LED |
| XC90 | 2003–2014 | W5W (T10) Halogen |
| V70/XC70 | 2008–2016 | W5W (T10) Halogen or LED |
| S80 | 2007–2016 | W5W (T10) Halogen |
| V60 | 2011–2018 | W5W (T10) Halogen or LED |
If you’re ever unsure, I’ve found that most auto parts stores will look it up for free—or you can use a fitment tool online with your VIN.
Preventing Future Bulb Failures
Once I got tired of replacing the same bulb every few months, I started paying attention to how I could make them last longer. Here’s what worked for me.
Use High-Quality Bulbs
Cheap bulbs might save money upfront, but I’ve had some burn out in weeks. I stick to brands like Philips, Sylvania, or Osram. They cost a little more but last way longer.
Do Regular Light Checks
Now and then, I walk around my Volvo with the lights on to check what’s working. I also do this after hitting a pothole or going through heavy rain. Catching a flicker early can stop a full failure later.
Keep Housings Clean and Dry
Moisture inside the lens can kill bulbs fast. If you see fog or water in your headlights or tail lights, it’s time to clean or reseal the housing. I once had a bulb fail from condensation alone.
Upgrade to Long-Life or LED Bulbs
Long-life halogens or quality LED bulbs are worth it. I switched my position lights to long-life LEDs two years ago and haven’t touched them since. Just make sure they’re CANbus-safe so you don’t trigger error codes.
Volvo Models Commonly Affected
Over the years, I’ve worked on a lot of Volvos with that annoying “Bulb Failure Position Light” message. While it can happen to any model, there are a few that seem to get it more often. If you drive one of these, this section’s for you.
Volvo XC60
This one tops the list. I’ve seen countless XC60s—especially from 2010 to 2017—with position light warnings. In many cases, it’s just a burnt W5W bulb. But here’s the catch: XC60s tend to be extra sensitive to voltage changes. I once swapped in an LED without a CANbus adapter, and the warning stayed on even though the bulb worked fine.
Quick Tip: Stick to long-life halogens or get a quality LED with built-in resistors.
Volvo S60
The S60 is another model that likes to flash that warning light. I’ve noticed more reports from the 2011–2018 models. Sometimes the bulb is fine, but the socket gets a little loose or corroded.
S60 Quirk: Check the contacts. Cleaning them with a dab of electrical grease can prevent future failures.
Volvo V70
I owned a V70 for five years. It’s a solid car, but the tail light area seems to collect dust and moisture. This leads to premature bulb burnouts or even corrosion in the socket.
What Helped Me: I sealed the rear housing better and made a habit of checking for moisture. A little silica gel in the trunk helped too.
Volvo XC90
The early XC90s, especially the 2003–2014 models, are known for false bulb warnings. Even when all the bulbs work, the car might think one is out.
Why It Happens: Voltage fluctuation or bad grounding. In one case, I replaced a working bulb with an OEM halogen, and the warning went away.
Volvo C30
This sporty little hatchback has its own set of quirks. I’ve seen position lights go out just because the wiring harness gets pinched near the housing.
Model-Specific Tip: If your bulb keeps failing, check for a cracked housing or damaged wiring. I fixed one by rerouting the harness to avoid friction.
Final Thoughts
If your Volvo is flashing a “Bulb Failure Position Light” warning, don’t panic. In most cases, it’s just a burnt bulb or a loose connection. I’ve been there. It’s frustrating, but also very fixable.
Recap: Quick Fixes That Work
- Swap the bulb with a good quality W5W halogen or LED.
- Check the socket for corrosion or loose contacts.
- Use CANbus-safe LEDs to avoid false warnings.
- Seal the housings to keep out moisture and dirt.
- Test the wiring if you’ve replaced the bulb but still get the warning.
Prevention Goes a Long Way
Like I always say, staying ahead of the problem saves time and money. Use high-quality bulbs, keep your lenses dry, and check your lights regularly. These small steps make a big difference.
Don’t Delay Repairs
Position lights help other drivers see your car. Driving without them, especially at dusk or in bad weather, is risky—and in some places, it’s even illegal. If you see the warning, take a few minutes to check it out. It might be something you can fix in your driveway.
Thanks for reading. If this guide helped you, feel free to check out my other Volvo tips. I share what I learn, one fix at a time.
FAQ: Volvo Bulb Failure Position Light
Q: Is it safe to drive with a bulb failure warning?
Technically, yes—but I wouldn’t recommend it. If the position light is out, other drivers might not see your car clearly, especially at night or in bad weather. It’s a small light, but it makes a big difference in how visible your car is. I always fix mine right away to stay safe and avoid tickets.
Q: Can I use LED bulbs instead of halogen in my Volvo?
Yes, you can—but here’s the catch. Volvos are picky about voltage. If you use a regular LED without a built-in resistor or CANbus adapter, the warning light might stay on. I learned this the hard way. So, make sure your LED bulbs are “CANbus error-free” or made for European cars.
Q: Why does the warning stay on even after I replaced the bulb?
There are a few reasons:
- The new bulb might not be seated right.
- The socket could be corroded.
- You might’ve used the wrong type of bulb.
- Or you used an LED without the right resistor.
I always double-check the socket and wiring first. A quick fix is often all it takes.
Q: Do I need to reset the car’s computer after changing a bulb?
Nope, you don’t need a reset in most cases. Volvo’s system should recognize the new bulb once it detects the correct voltage draw. But if the warning stays on, turn the car off and on again. That usually clears the error if everything’s working.
Q: How much does it cost to fix a position light failure at a dealership?
Dealerships can charge anywhere from $75 to $150, depending on labor rates and the model. But the bulb itself usually costs just a few bucks. I always recommend trying to fix it yourself first. Most of the time, it’s just a five-minute DIY job.
Q: Can I turn off the warning light manually?
Not really. The system is built to alert you when a light fails. You can’t just push a button to silence it. But if the bulb and wiring are good, the warning should clear on its own. If it doesn’t, something deeper might be wrong—like a short or faulty control module.
Q: What does “position light” mean vs “parking light”?
Good question! They’re often the same thing. Volvo calls them position lights, while other car brands say parking lights. Both refer to the small lights that help others see your car from the front or back when it’s parked or driving in low light.
Q: Why do my new bulbs keep burning out quickly?
A few possible reasons:
- Cheap bulbs with poor quality.
- Moisture in the housing.
- Loose sockets or shaky wiring.
- High voltage spikes in the system.
I’ve had this happen in an old XC70. Swapping to better bulbs and sealing the housing made the issue go away.
Q: How do I find the right bulb size for my Volvo model?
Your owner’s manual is the best place to start. You can also check the sticker on the bulb housing. I use online tools from bulb makers like Philips or Sylvania—they let you search by make and model. Always double-check before buying to avoid guesswork.
Know More:
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