I have a 2001 V70 XC that is giving Me starting problems. My V70 only starts intermittenly. I originally thought it was the battery or charging system, but I had those checked and they are both working according to specs. The starter has been replaced, but I recently purchased the car so I have no idea how long ago. The starter is very clean so I suspect it was replaced within the last 6 months. I replaced the ignition switch myself and got a immobilizer code, but that seems to have cleared it self. Sometimes it will start with no problems but other times it won't. When it won't start while turning the ignition switch to the start position I can hear the cellinoid on the starter engaging. Sometimes if I try repeatedly to start the car it will start, other times I have to let it set and then it seems to start quickly. I believe I may have a problem with the immobilizer. Any information pertaining to the immobilzer is greatly appreciated.

 

I haven't heard of to many people having problems with an immobelizer. My guess would be to check your battery cables real good. When it has problems starting, does the head lights shine bright? From what you explain, when you try to start the car it does NOT crank?

 

Are you able to turn the key in the ignition when you have these starting problems? We had a problem with the shift lock button (the button on the front of the gear shift handle) which prevented the key from turning in the ignition, and thus starting the car. Often the button wouldn't return fully after pressing it and putting the car in park, and this prevents the car from starting. We had to manually pull the button out further - but I have to tell you that in doing this, the button actually broke off. No big deal though, since you can still use press the bar under the button to shift gears. And we haven't had a starting issue since! We could replace the button but it looks pretty difficult and the car drives fine without it.

 

There is also a relay for the starter you could check out. On my '01 S60 it's a 4 pin relay that's located with the fuses under the hood, I assume it would be the same for your XC. It's a cheap replacement that might be worth trying.