My 2000 V70 XC has a problem climbing a particular hill. The climb is relatively long (approx. 1 mile) and is relatively steep (I'd say no more than 4%). If I can keep my speed over 55 MPH I generally get over the hill with no problems. However, if due to traffic my speed drops below 50 MPH I lose momentum andthe car will not accelerate. The transmission tries to downshift when I give it gas butthe car will not accelerate and black smoke comes out of the exhaust. I wind up creeping over the top at about 30 MPH. I am not sure whether it is a computer or transmission issue or if the turbo is not kicking in properly.The funny thing is that climbing the same hill from the other direction, which is a steeper grade, I have never had a problem. Anyone have any ideas on what is happening?

 

Is the check engine light on?

 

No, the check engine light does not come on.

 

I would still have the codes read and see if there is any.

 

Black smoke is usually a sign of unburnt fuel. When was the last tune up done, especially the air filter?

 

I agree about the black smoke, which is what makes mesuspect the issue may be with the turbo or computer control rather than the transmission. The car had a full 60K mile service at the Volvo dealership just over a year ago. Air fliter was changed then. Its got about 68K on it now, but I have had this problem both before and after the major service.

 

Then maybe one of the coils are bad.