1999 S80 engine racing when started
 

Hi,
I am the original owner ofa 1999 Volvo S80 with 105,000 miles. In the past couple weeks, we've noticed an intermittant problem. When we start the car, first thing in the morning, sometimes the engine races. As soon as it is shifted into Reverse, to back out of the garage, the racing stops. This doesn't usually happen later in the day, but pretty frequent first thing in the morning.

Issomething sticking? Is this something I can take care of myself and not have to bring to the dealer?

Any ideas/suggestions?
Thanks,
Steve

RE: 1999 S80 engine racing when started
 

i have noticed that in my car. When i start it after its been off for a bit. sometimes it will start and hover at like 1500-2500 rpm untill i rev the engine or hit the gas in some way. I think that is normal on turbo cars.

RE: 1999 S80 engine racing when started
 

Thanks for the reply. However, my model is the S80 2.9 Liter, non-Turbo version. I've had the car for about 8 years and haven't experienced this behavior until now. Its never idled fast immediately upon starting.

Steve

RE: 1999 S80 engine racing when started
 

yeah thats not good. but could be easily fixable. im sure one of the tech guys will be able to tell you.

i hope its okay that mine does that <_< >_>

RE: 1999 S80 engine racing when started
 

Have you had the software update for the ETM? The S80's have idle issues if you don't have the update. My 2000 S80 had similar problems but once I got the software updated it's been smooth sailing since.

I'd recommend getting ahold of your dealership and asking them if your car has had the update or not.

RE: 1999 S80 engine racing when started
 

I just called my dealer and sure enough my car did have that software change in March of this year. He then asked me how fast was it idling when it was first started. I said I didn't know. So the next time it happens, I'll be sure to note the RPMs. He said that if its above about 1500 or so, it could be an issue and should be looked at. If its around a 1000 or so, not to worry.

In any event, I'll be sure to look at the RPMs the next time it happens and I'll make sure I show my wife what to look at and make note of.

Thanks and I'll be back in touch.
Steve

RE: 1999 S80 engine racing when started
 

Yeah, problems with a S80's idle is almost always the ETM or the software. Whens the last time you've had the car tuned up? It may help to take it into the dealership and let them check everything out and make sure you're good to go. :)

RE: 1999 S80 engine racing when started
 

Have the throttle body cleaned.

RE: 1999 S80 engine racing when started
 

Hi,
Here's an update. This time I experienced the problem myself. Previous times, my wife noticed it. When the car started, after being in the garage all night, the car revved up to 2200 RPM, then went down to 1000 RPM, then immediately up to 1500 RPM and then settled at 1000 RPM. This all occurred within 15 seconds or so without touching the gas pedal or changing gears.

I plan to contact my dealer in the morning.

So do you think its just a matter of cleaning the throttle body ? The service dept claims I've had the software upgrade. I'd ask him to check again. My dealer probably won't be able to "see" the problem unless I leave my car there over night. It only seems to happen upon initial startup after setting in the garage all night.

Suggestions?
Thanks,
Steve

RE: 1999 S80 engine racing when started
 

A throttle cleaning might fix it.