I love my '05 V70, but about 3 weeks ago while driving, I got the Brake Failure Stop Safely message and an airbag service message. The instrument panel then went completely dark and the car died. I pulled over, started the car again, it lurched forward and repeated these phenomena. I took it in and the dealership replaced a fuel sensor that had been recalled and cleaned the fuel injection system. It was all under my Certified Pre-Owned Warranty. The car drove great for three or four days and then became a tad sluggish when first accelerating from a stop, almost like it was not shifting when it should.

Three days ago, while driving, there was a clicking sound (maybe four or five clicks) coming from the instrument panel, a SBS Airbag Urgent Service message came up and then the instrument panel went black. My automatic windows and locks and turn signals wouldn't work; the air conditioner continued to blow but ceased cooling. The car did not stall or die this time. I could still drive it, but it was very, very sluggish.

I took it back to the dealership and they have diagnosed a bad brake sensor. They suggest that the sensor is not reading the proper speed of the wheel, so it is affecting the transmission sensor from kicking into gear. They also assert that this confusion in the sensors is causing the Airbag messages.

And somehow none of this is under warranty. Their estimate is $1850, but I am quite certain it will balloon beyond that.

I am at 97,800 miles of my 100K warranty and these are the first issues I've had with my car.

Thanks in advance for any advice?

 

Did they say ABS module?

 

I don't recall "module." He kept referring to the sensor not working. Now I'm wondering about the electrical system. Within just a few minutes of driving today, the temp gauge went from 93 to 113. The guy at the dealership suggested that all the electrical issues were a result of this brake sensor not functioning properly.

 

Possible but I doubt it is the sensor.

 

Has anyone come up with a cause for this set of probs?

My 2004 v70 is doing the exact same things and I would really like to go to the shop armed with a little info.