It is time for my smog test. I have a code reader showing 'incomplete' on a lot of items formonths now. I brought it to smog station hoping he could clear it or run this procedure on the roller device for smog test, but he won't do it:

Volvo Technical Service Bulletin #SB 2-23-0056

Start with the vehicle cool, below 122 degrees F.
Turn off the air conditioning.
Select a location where the driving can be done without violating traffic laws and you can stop safely at the side of the road.

1. Start the engine and accelerate to approximately 1500-2000 rpm.
2. Drive for 6 minutes at 1500-2000 rpm.
3. Stop the vehicle and remain at idle in drive for 70 seconds.
4. Accelerate to at least 45mph and drive for 5 minutes at 1800-2200 rpm.
5. Stop the vehicle and remain at idle in drive for 60 seconds.
6. Accelerate to at least 45 mph and drive for 4 minutes at 1800-2200 rpm.
7. Stop the vehicle and remain at idle in drive for 60 seconds.
8. Park the vehicle and turn off the engine.

This procedure must be performed TWICE from a cold start to set the readiness codes.

I am thinking of raising my car and press the gas pedal to the desired RPMs. Only difference is it won't be running at 45mph. I wonder if the readiness cycle looks at MPH speed too ? Has anyone tried just lifting the car ? What would the Volvo dealers be doing to clear it and charge $150-375 ? This must be the trick !!! ???

Other thing is: Is it true that the 1996-1998 Volvo V70/S70/C70's could get exempted for incomplete ODBII readiness because of this issue ? Anyone there pass the test in California with Smog Station exempting your car because of this ???

You can't get around this. Either do the procedure or pay someone to do it. This is a problem on other car manufacturers too, but not as common as on certain Volvo models, yours being one of them.

HOORAY!!! I talked to DMV. It appears that my car is exempted from the readiness code completion. I'll see what the Test Station says.

Finally got my smog test done. This one Test Only station where I explained my situation won't do it. He was sending me to a mechanic so they can do the reset cycle for $300.

I drove to another Test Only station and did not tell them anything about my readiness code problem. It passed !!!

Tip: If you live in California and have to readiness code reset problem, call DMV and give your license plate number. They might have your car exempted in their database. Or ask them how you can be added...probably only for 1996-1998 models.

For what it's worth in Illinois some cars including early 850s have been given variances for readiness test failures. You can trace this on the web - possible ammunition in your case?

The dealers charge that much because the mechanic leaves your shop with your car and goes for a controlled joy ride.
Just because it says to drive it at 2000rmp, doesn't mean you have to have a autobahn. Try 3rd gear, or even 2nd. You should be able to do that yourself on a 2 lane road. City drivers do have a problem.
Just be glad it's not an older 850, they recycle every time the key is turned off!

Klaus

Actually, 2000rpm is slow. I hit 3000rpm on regular acceleration, but the problem is the STOP light. Yep, I'm in the City.