Hi Folks, How are we all?

I'm very lucky to have just been given a 1999 V70. It has an idle problem however... no others. Idle fluctuates by 1-200rpm. It starts fine, drives well, pulls well, changes gear fine (auto) and all in all is fine. The 'ETS' and 'Engine Management' lights are on but after reading lots of information on ETM/ETS problems it has none of the other symptons which seem common with a failed ETM. It has been to a Volvo specialist and they are unable to read any fault codes and couldn't diagnose the issue. I've removed the ETM and it was filthy, so I've cleaned it and re-installed it and the problem seems slightly worse as in 'slightly faster' pulsing.

What are your thoughts/experiences please. Any help would be massively appreciated as I really can't afford to chuck loads of money at it.

Many thanks,

Rob.

 

Take it to another shop. If a "specialist" can't read fault codes, they aren't very specialized. I'd put my money on a bad throttle though.

 

I'd love to but due to personal circumstances I really can't afford to throw another 100 quid at a potentially equal result. Hence enquiring at the font of all Volvo knowledge.

 

Well if they charged you money to tell you they can't diagnose it, I would ask for your money back since they did nothing.

Without codes, its just guessing. And my guess is a bad throttle.

 

He's 100% correct. As a former service writer I can say that some repair shops are less than helpful when you're there for just for a diagnosis. However, I wouldn't charge someone then tell them "I don't know".

 

You probably do need access to a Vida-Dice system to diagnose the faults precisely but have you tried or have access to borrow even a cheap generic fault code reader?
It may find an initial quick clue to your problem.

 

I have an OB2 fault reader I got for less than 100 dollars 70 Quid. Are there any Auto parts store where you live? The reader has saved my hide more than a few times!

 

I've found a few really comprehensive sites on the topic and having completed the tests/cleaning that they suggest I am fairly sure that it is the EMT. They also mention that this particular fault doesn't throw up any fault codes. Which is probably why the garage went to couldn't read anything. I'm gonna see if I can source and re-program a second hand one until I can afford to get a replacement from Xemodex.

Thanks for all your inputs.

Rob.

 

If the ETS light is on, there is a code. The garage probably doesn't have a scammer that can read it.