Have owned four Volvos, my most recent being a 2000 V70XC with about 60K. In the last month we have put about a thousand miles on it and just the other day the ETS light goes on. Checked the manual - Electronic Throttle Control, effects drivability, BUT if it the light doesn't come back on, no big deal. Well . . . it doesn't seem to be my lucky day, b/c that orange ETS popped back on and there seems to be some sluggishness in the acceleration.
I figured I'd check out the Brickboard and do a search about this issue. Much to my surprise and disgust this appears to be a VERY common failure that can ONLY be fixed at the DEALER at a cost of about $1000!!! I will likely need a new module and new software, all b/c they decided to get rid of the cable-based system and go with some faulty, poorly designed computer-based one. Volvo should step up to the plate on this and I intend on writing a letter - as I will definitely think twice before purchasing another one. If your ETS fails completely, you will be left stranded with no hope of starting the car until it is replaced - is that what one should expect from a company that prides itself on reliability and safety? Shame on them, this should be recalled.
-Dave
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