I have a 2004 xc90 with an instrument panel that occasionally cuts out for either a few seconds or sometimes a few minutes. always comes back to life if you pull over, turn off, and wait 5 mins. Used to happen once a year (bought car used at end of 2007) but now happening more often.

A couple of times now, fortunately at home, it won't retstart at all for a day or two at a time, then, fine.

Dealers think it is something in the ECM modules, but don't really want to take it if it is not 'dead'.

I have researched this and it doesn't sound uncommon. My mechanic cleaned all the contacts on the instrument pod, no luck.

Ideas?

 

Are there wiring diagrams available on-line? That's where I'd start looking to get a general feel of how the electrical system works. Probably it is caused by one weak connection or component whether it is inside a box or outside, it might take some thought to figure it out. Are there any cars yet in the junk yards of that vintage that you could rob components from? Maybe re-set all the fuses and wire bundle connectors in case of corrosion build up. Any possibility of it being in the ignition switch?

 

While I haven't had an instrument cluster issue I have had intermittent cutting out and stalling issues. My issue ended up being the fuel pump control unit that's tucked in the passenger rear wheel well. See the thread below. Hope it helps narrow things down...

https://volvoforums.com/forum/volvo-...y-ideas-70511/

NOTE: At the end of the above thread is a link to a thread detailing how to replace the FCU / PEM if that's your issue.

 

Sorry, wrote the OP in a hurry. I should also add that the instrument cluster dies completely as does the AC, drivers window (only, I think) and a few other things. Then they spring back to life after restarting the vehicle.