Bought my V70 AWD (1999) a couple of months ago. Fantastic car - loved the ride, mileage, performance, comfort. A couple of weeks ago, i noticed my cruise control failing. On the way home from work it didn't work at all and noticed some roughness in the vehicle. now the cruise doesn't work at all and the engine idles wildly between 700-1500 on start, and intermittently when at stop signs/lights. VERY Frustrating!! I was looking at other cars originally, and it seems I may/should have looked at the 1998s as they didn't have the same ETM issue as the 99-01s. Any comments - I was hoping to not spend a fortune a couple of months after purchasing the vehicle. The vehicle did have Check engine light go on, but in a day it disappeared - but the issues did not.

BTW - I contacted the local Volvo dealership and they did see the ETM replaced at approx 77,000 miles. I am currently at 115,000 miles - which would be a shame if the same part failed again.

 

Problem Solved!!

Found a local mechanic who ordered and installed a replacement ETM in October 2009. Solved both idling, bucking, and cruise control issues. Currently at 119,000 miles and no issues since!! ETM replacement part was $325, and labor was $125 - a bargain compared to the dealer. Great service and restored confidence in the old estate.

 

I think I have a similar issue, on my car right now. The ETS light and the check engine light came on. Car runs fine most of the time - occasionally has bouts of rough idling and hard starting. Did your local mechanic replace it with a new part? Where did he get it that cheap? I'm doing the timing belt service and want to take care of this before it strands me somewhere. I planned on getting the XeMODeX rebuild on mine, but would love to save a few beans if it's comparable quality.

I have a 2000 V70 XC, currently 108k miles (I know the t-belt is way past due, I got a deal on it because the PO didn't want to spend $$ on the ETM and t-belt service). The ETM is just out of the 10yr warranty period (4.5 months out). Any and all help appreciated.

-D

 

are the ETM=throttle by wire?....... do the pre 99 have cable throttle?.....I am looking into buying a used volvo and trying to find out what one might be best. thx

 

Hello, Yes 1998s and back have a cable but that's only part of the story. You can sidestep any 1999-2002 ETM repair with the XeMODeX part for ~700 bucks. There are other things to keep in mind when you're shopping for a car which add up to alot more than $700. Do a search on the topic of AWD if you want one of those. Do you want turbo? Do you want to buy premium gas? Do you live in the High Southwest (buy a turbo if you do). I guarantee you one thing. The more you look around for a car (as in get up off your chair and test drive them) the greater your chances of finding one. Kira

 

I just replaced my ETM with a XeModeX rebuilt unit and it set me back $550 after core charge refund. Comes with preloaded software and is completely plug and play. So far, all is well - the idle is rock steady (no more jumping around from 700rpm to 1000rpm), no more ETS or check engine lights, etc. But I couldn't find the $325 replacement part the OP talked about. Also, if you plan on keeping your car, go the XeModeX route since the original Volvo part WILL fail again on you. XeModeX has a better design and a better warranty.