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Have my ETM software upgraded? Original ETM. V70-XC70 1999

posted by  Kentucky on  Fri Jul 11 08:54 CST 2014
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last visit: Tue Sep 30 13:01 CST 2014
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My local dealer ran the VIN for my 99 V70 non-turbo through their system, and found that recall number 155 for the ETM software upgrade has not been performed. I photographed the ID tag on my ETM, and they verified (much to their disbelief) that I have the original ETM at almost 215,000 miles. I suspected it was original since it is a white label.

So, does anyone see any reason that I should not have the software updated? Is it likely that it would hasten the demise of my ETM? They printed me a copy of the recall letter, and Volvo considers it to be a safety issue since the throttle may fail to respond, and the car may go into limp home mode. I am inclined to have it done, but thought I would check the opinion of others.

They also said there is a headlight switch recall. Anyone know anything about that? I suppose I may as well have that done to as long as the new switch still allows me to set it so that I can turn the lights off if I like.

Charley








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    Have my ETM software upgraded? Original ETM. V70-XC70 1999

    posted by  KlausC on  Fri Jul 11 13:38 CST 2014
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    last visit: Fri Oct 24 10:15 CST 2014
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    Not all ETM's and headlight switches fail, you are just lucky.

    The ETM recall moves the pentometer a little bit so that it doesn't wear on the same spot. No big deal and I have never seen that to work for an extended period of time. In other words, once an ETM starts sending error codes, the entire ETM needed to be replaced. I wouldn't bother doing the update.

    Headlight switch should still have the fake screw slot to allow you to turn off the DRLs. Keep the old one if you can, back ups are always nice to have.

    --
    My back feels better when I sit in a Volvo seat








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      Have my ETM software upgraded? Original ETM. V70-XC70 1999

      posted by  Kentucky on  Fri Jul 11 21:36 CST 2014
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      Thanks Klaus,

      The parts counter guy agreed with you and said he would leave it alone if it isn't causing any trouble. The service writer talked like it would change the throttle response, and that I would like the change. Then the letter from Volvo said it was a safety issue.

      Charley








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        Have my ETM software upgraded? Original ETM. V70-XC70 1999

        posted by  KlausC on  Sat Jul 12 09:07 CST 2014
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        last visit: Fri Oct 24 10:15 CST 2014
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        From my dealer experiences, service writers don't know diddly. Parts guys usually have a Volvo and know their cars. Of course, mechanics and parts guys with 10 plus years of experiance are the only ones I trust.

        Of course Volvo says that a failing ETM is a safety issue. What else would you call it when the throttle goes to an idle setting while driving on an interstate? That is not even limp home mode.

        There are interesting write ups regarding replacing ETMs with junk yard yellow lable versions. I would rather send Xemodex $500 and have a better unit. Hmmm, I wonder if the prior owner already did that... You could send xemodex and email and ask?

        --
        My back feels better when I sit in a Volvo seat








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          Have my ETM software upgraded? Original ETM. V70-XC70 1999

          posted by  Kentucky on  Sun Jul 13 02:10 CST 2014
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          The parts guy said he has been with Volvo since before my 99 car was built, so he meets the 10+ threshold. I am leaning back towards "let sleeping dogs lie". I don't know if it's true, but I read the following on the Internet (so it must be true!). The logic seems good:

          "Recall 155 is Volvo's latest and greatest software update to try to get the Throttle Module to make it past the 200,000 mile warranty period. Basically the software update dumbs down the response time and reference signal from the ETM. It usually doens't fix an ETM thats failed, but sometimes it helps."

          Interesting (to me anyway) thing I found out while doing my timing belt is that I don't have variable valve timing. Apparently that was a mid-year change and mine is a January 99 build date. I'm not sure if this is good news or bad news, but usually, when a machine is older, simpler is better.

          Maybe I should check with Xemodex on that. The husband of the previous owner (from new) worked at my local Benz/Volvo dealership, so he could have been in the know. But, doesn't Xemodex put some kind of ID tag on their rebuilt units?

          Charley







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