I'm looking at this '05 S40 T5 for $600 that, according to the seller, has a bad CEM and heater core. From what I hear, you can pick up a CEM for about 50 dollars but I have no idea if it needs to be programmed or what. As an added concern, I'm afraid that the seller claims it has a bad computer when it really has a much larger issue, such as a bad transmission. In the photos it looks like the car is one of at least 10 other volvos in some kind of yard, and they all have number tags on them, which makes things seem even fishier. I'd really appreciate it if someone could give me some general insight on CEM replacement and if this looks like a good deal or a scam.

Ad says:

Need to sell my Volvo s40. It's black on black with 6 speed manual trans. and a T5 motor. Currently not running, the heater core and CEM need to be replaced. It has been maintained by Ravenna Volvo for the past 7 years. Have all the cars service records. Just replaced both lower control arms last month. Brand new Goodyear Eagle F1 tires ($800.00 value)

Car has lots of good parts, or could be repaired.

Mileage is 198950.

 

Too much for the car. Not sure where you live but in MD, I see S40 T5's with much fewer miles for that price.

 

Ok not sure how to associate "not running" to a heater core or a CEM. The CEM is a board that has relays etc on it which can burn out. In the Gen2s its paired to the immobilizer so I suppose it could cause a no start. There are services that will rebuild but it takes special software to pair the unit again

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So as with any used car, you need to do some math to see if its worth the effort. Start with checking out market prices on Autotrader.com or KBB.com. A quick look suggests a 1200-1800 valuation based on condition. So, now is 800 a fair price? Can we assume you do all your own work? A used CEM can be bought for $100, now budget $250 to have the CEM paired to your car. A heater core costs about $80 - and if the S40 is like my 850, its a 1-2 hour install job. Adding coolant you are up to $100. Having a shop do the core would add another $200. So do all the work and you have a driver for $1250-1500. That tells me the car is asking pretty much market price and has the headache of you doing the work. If you can get the car for $600 then its a deal, for $800 considering the repairs - meh...

 

It is likely the O-rings in the pipes that connect to the heater core. They are near the CEM and can spray coolant on the CEM. There are a little more brains to the CEM other than relays and fuses.
Stan

 

CEM for $50? Can I get 2 please?

The heater core o-rings are a royal PITA to replace. Plan on a couple hours on your knees bent over the pax side door sill. Makes my ribs hurt thinking about all the curse words I used.

 

LOL, nobody said DIY was easy or fun! And let us know which CEM you need - readily available (used) on eBay for $50-100 but not sure about the $$ for shipping to China. I paid $65 for one for my 2000 S40 at a local yard in Brewster, NY.

 

Those CEMs are totally different than the P1, which is programmed to the car.

 

yep, as noted in my earlier comment about including the cost to reprogram to "pair" the CEM in the repair estimate for the 2005 S40 project car.