My 1994 developed an annoying habit this year. When the temperature drops below 50 degrees, it seems that I have to start it numberous times before it will stay running. It cranks up but cuts right off. I know that I have started it enough when I hear a buzzing sound.

The odomenter has 264,000 miles on it and I am really considering getting rid of this car. It has caused me to be late several times because the temperature was coolin the morning. Once I even called the tow truck and then it started up before they came. Also, my power steering box needs to be replaced.

What could it be?

Also, I would appreciate any comments on the 1998 S70 and a 2001 S60? I am considering getting one of them as a replacement.

The buzzing sound is suspicious. If there are no codes, it is usually a fuel delivery problem. Try this some morning when the car won't start and you have a little time to experiment:

http://www.brickboard.com/AWD/index.htm?id=1265592

The fuel pump relay is in the fuse box tray, #103 stamped on the top.

Klaus
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Proud owner of a 220S. If I had more room, I would have more Volvos.

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You can eliminate the fuel pump relay from consideration by jumpering it out of the circuit.

Remove the relay (#103) and look next to the pins in the base. Molded into the plastic you should see the numbers 31, 31b, 15, and 87. Fashion a jumper wire and jumper between the socket connections that correspond to pins 15 and 87. If the car fires right up your relay is bad. If it still doesn't run then you may or may not have a problem with the pump. The only way to tell for sure is with a fuel pressure gauge.

If the pump and regulator is working properly you should see 43.5 PSI at the end of the rail.

...Lee

The above is the link I was refering to. The relay is in the fuse panel, engine compartment. Have the engine off when you use a short piece of insulated wire to make the jump. This "jump" will turn the fuel pump on so long as the key is in the ON position. Do not drive this way, because if you have an accident the fuel pump will not stop running until the key is turned OFF.

Klaus
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Proud owner of a 220S. If I had more room, I would have more Volvos.