I have a "good" 2000 v70 Volvo wagon with two big problems. The drivers side door won't open from either side, and the body shop guy said we may have to cut the door up to get it out. The second big problem is when I drive it, and try to hold a speed it jerks and revs up and down until I release the gas and just coast. If I drive it with a heavy foot it doesn't stutter, but if I try and stay at an easy consistent speed, it revs up and down like I'm pressing the pedal down in a rhythmic way. My neighbors must think I'm crazy, climbing in and out of the passenger side, and Reving my engine randomly while cruising.

I also have a "crappy" 1998 v70 Volvo wagon with two big problems, one being the alternator stopped working, and two being the AC and heat doesn't work at all.

They both have their problems, and I feel like I have already put so much money into the both of them, it's hard to let go. Maybe I could use the driver side door from the "crappy" Volvo to fix the "good" Volvo.

Help! I think even my mechanic is giving up on these cars. Should I scrap them both? Should I save them? Should I sacrifice one for the other?

 

Sounds the Electronic Throttle Module is closed to dead on the 2000 V70.

Here's a video how to open the door.



As for the 98, alternator is relatively easy to change. Perhaps get an used alternator in and sell the car?

 

I'd fix the crappy one (and thus did not vote). The alternator is simple as a box of rocks. The HVAC is not, but if it doesn't work at all, it probably has a very simple problem. No electronic throttle on the 98.

 

agree. On the alternator it may simply be a voltage regulator


For the HVAC, what's not working? ie blower? can you feel heat or AC (ie are the vent doors working)? Does the AC/Recirc lights come on or blink? l Did you check fuses/relays etc?