This is my first post, please go easy on me...

Recently my volvo has been doing this weird little dance at stop lights - it idles a little rough, RPM's jump a bit, feels like it wants to drag me through the light. It subsides a bit if I put it in neutral or park and once I'm moving you can't notice it. Doesn't seem to affect acceleration/power once I'm past 5-10 mph. Check engine light has been coming on and off over the past few days. I've had the thermostat, starter, and timing belt replaced w/in past six months, not due for an oil change...help?

Sidenote: can anyone recommend a good code reader? Not a pro by any means but getting tired of taking this car to the shop, would like to see what I can do by myself or at least have an idea what I'm in for. Much appreciated.

 

Ok, please verify the year as there are two totally different ones. 04.5 up ?

 

right, that's probably useful information. it's a 2001, 1.9t on the back.

 

there are some good threads around here about the IAC valve and fuel regulator problems, do a quick search...