In hot weather after running the a/c for 30 minutes or so, there is a strong
alcohol-like odor that can be smelled inside the car and afterwards when the
car is turned off and sitting. My independent Volvo mechanic says that European
car manufacturers didn't account for the added alcohol in American fuels in the
evaporative emission system until a few years later(I have a '94 turbo wagon).
and nothing can be done. I've run the a/c in the winter time and I don't get
the smell then. I have not replaced the charcoal cannister as its not clear to
me that would help. The a/c system works fine except for this. Any suggestions?
Don in Denver

Your indie is trying to pull the wool over your eyes. You don't smell it in the winter time, only when the AC is on? Well, R134a ia odorless, so that's not it. Make sure the drains are clear under the evaporator.
Check your coolant level.
Are you windows open a little when you drive it, or sun roof? Could you be pulling in exhaust through the trunk? Those little flaps in the back can fall off allowing air to enter from the rear. Open the center dash vent for outside air and make sure the recycle button is OFF.

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

Did you check your passengers?

Sorry...couldn't resist being a smarta$$.

You sure it isn't the ethlyne glycol you're smelling from the coolant? If so, I would suspect a leak in the heater core that's at floor level behind the center dash. Others will chime in.
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1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon. My cars have been running so well lately they've got me worried.