the intermittent wiper feature on my base model S70 has only one speed available, unlike many other newer cars I've driven of late, both foreign and domestic. Do the more highly optioned S70's have a variable wiper interval feature? If so, is it possible to retro-fit to my car? Seems like all I would have to do is swap out the wiper switch assembly...

I put the IPD relay in my 1999 S70 and it works great. They recently lowered the price to $38.00. Very much worth it.

I bought the IPD version too and it seems to work well. There is a UK Volvo forum that had a discussion on this a couple of years ago. They reported that there is an Audi part that works in the Volvo to do the same thing. I do not know if the Audi version is any cheaper than the IPD version. Its another alternative if you wish to explore it.
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1998 Volvo S70

No. Volvo has decreed that people only need a single interval for their intermittant wipers. A relay under the dash controls the interval. I swapped my OEM for one sold by IPD. Fairly easy to do for a contortionist and then you can set your own speed without any additional hardware.

Klaus
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1975 164 w/174,800mi (Sold) 1995 850T w/91,000mi, 1998 V70R w/129,000mi

I bought one from another vendor that did not work, but the IPD unit does work. Not so sure about my back. Thought I would never get out and then my wonderful progressive lens---------

dick

Just when I finally got my head stuck under the brake peddle and could almost see the relay, I realized that part of the problem was that I didn't have my reading glasses on :(
I have had those dumb things for 10 years now, and still forget to put them on when I work on ANYTHING. Getting older and blinder, sort term memory too.

Klaus
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1975 164 w/174,800mi (Sold) 1995 850T w/91,000mi, 1998 V70R w/129,000mi

The IPD relay was the first thing I got for my 850. (K&N filter 2nd) Not comfy to install, but I still love it. Have fun

97 850 170K

I too have the IPD relay and highly recommend it. For anyone considering it, here's how it works: Push the stalk up into the intermittent position for one wipe only. Return it to the off position and wait your desired time interval. When your desired interval has elapsed, return the stalk to the intermittent position and leave it there. Intermittent wiping will continue at your desired interval until you repeat the cycle for a new interval or turn it off.

My dealer installed it gratis during a scheduled service. No need for the reading glasses. :-)