That familiar coolant smell is apparent in my recently acquired '98 V70 AWD. I know the smell because I just had to replace the heater core in my '98 Saab 9000. My mechanic did a pressure test on the V70 and thinks it might be a small hole in the heater core. I guess that means evaporator is OK? How big a job is it to replace the heater core and would you reccomend that I go ahead and replace the blower motor at the same time? (That's what I did with the Saab.)
Thanks for the help.
John

I just replaced my heater core. As noted, a simple 2 hour job. For detailed instructions and photos, go to volvospeed.com. New heater core was $125 through my indy mechanic. Tools needed are two torx drivers, don't remember the sizes. You will also need coolant, and a way to collect the coolant that runs out of the heater core and onto your driver's side floor when you break the seal on the heater core. While you are at it, replace all of the heater hoses on your car, if you have not done so already. My radiator went a few months before my heater core, so yours might be due to go soon too.

The heater core isn't a major job, maybe 2 hours and no, not related to the blower motor in any way, not even close.

holy aunt jemima! wait and see what coolant you may be losing.... my car did it two years ago for a bit and there was no leak...but now that i say that i'm gonna knock wood.

I also have the same sweet smell (more like bread baking) accompanied with a rumbling/vibration that seems to come from the rear of the car and travels up my seat when I brake and just as I come to a complete stop. Definitely feels like it's power related (not brakes). I have no leaks on my garage floor at the front of car but noticed a small puddle at the rear (oily but not oil).

Any thoughts?

Probably a rear shock died and the fluid is draining out of it.

You could be getting wheel hop with the brakes applied. Do both rear shocks at the same time.

Klaus
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(V♂LV♂s 1975 164, 1995 854T, 1998 V70R)