Good evening all, I have a few questions for you tonight. First I will be the new owner of an 2000 S40 w 150K on it. I was told that there is a problem with the controller that handles the shift points on the tranny. That Sports/ Winter Mode thing. With a moderate accel the tranny acts like it cant find the right gear to be in. Also that the Air bag light is on. What do I need to know to get this car back to spec. and can it be done DIY. This is my first S-series but I am the VERY PROUD owner of an 89' 240 so Volvo work is not new. Thanks for all the help. I really wnat to welcome this Volvo into the family.
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Profection in Progress

About the tranny shifting issue. Of course, check the fluid level first. Yes, I know you are a DIY person. I just want to hit first things first. Put on a cotton glove as the dip stick is tucked tightly away and the radiator fan can start up at any time with the car warmed up. Volvo says that the fluid is a lifetime fill but I would drain and replace the fluid every 50,000mi or so. If the fluid is clean and at the right level, there was a software upgrade on the earlier US S40s that had something to do with poor shifting/gear selection. Knock out the easy stuff first then get the dealer to upgrade the software.

On the air bags, you should have the dealer troubleshoot that one. They should not be due for replacement. My 2002 S40 has a decal inside the driver's door that says they should to be replaced in 2012...eleven year lifespan. The car wasn't in an accident was it?

BTW: A strap wrench takes the oil filter housing off nicely. Use synthetic oil since it has a turbo.

FCP Groton has great Mintex replacement brake pads for S40s.

mormit
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85 245DL 260,000mi V15cam It takes a licking and keeps on ticking, 02 S40 Mmmmmm,

The airbag is probably due for a replacement, or there is a fault with it. Suggest you get this done by Volvo. And if you ever need to work near the seats, the side airbags are passive (does not help to disconnect battery) and there is a plastic interlock key that you need to insert. Remove a cover on the seat, then the key is right there.

It is unlikely the transmission electronic module is faulty, more likely a sensor or wiring. If you take the car to Volvo for the airbag, get them to check out the transmission as well.