My dash service light stays on for the first five minutes after starting my T5M. Then turns off once warm. Have noticed a hissing sound during the first 5 minutes Any suggestions of why?

THAT'S NOT A SERVICE LIGHT!!! It's a high tech, "turbo timer." You see, cold turbos don't like to be "beaten on" until their nice and cozy-warm. If you see the light on, that means it's not cozy yet and would prefer to spin slowly for a while longer.

After 2 minutes (it's 2, not 5, at least on my car) it goes off and the turbo says: "OK, where to!!!???"

Seriously, on more than on occasion, I've refrained from jumping on the gas after noticing it was on. Coming home I just take it out of gear and idle on down the block for cooling purposes.

I told you this is my BABY! Anyone want to adopt it?
--
Adam - V70 T5M - **FOR SALE** http://photomail.photoworks.com/sharing/album.asp?Key=5605323464430803

The service light means you need service -- it is not the same
as a check engine light. It is on for 5 minutes as a reminder
and then shuts off.

It can be programmed to turn on every 6K miles/6 months,
12K miles/12 months, etc. (varies a bit by the year). The
dealer turns it off when they do the service. On some years,
you can turn it off yourself. You probably have a 98 and 98
models can only have the service light reset by the dealer or
with a special tool that costs a couple hundred bucks. I think
99 and later can be done by the owner but I don't know the
procedure (I have a 98 myself and just live with the light).

3M black electrical tape, $0.99 roll, Home Depot. Cut 1x1.5cm piece, place over light.

Works for the "Check Engine" light, too! (High beams, or anything else you don't want to know about!)

The model years "at risk" are 1996-1998. Given the propensity of lessees NOT to change their oil, there is actually something to be said for this system.

-Phil Punxsutawney

The hissing sound is probably an air pump for emissions. The service light is telling you that the car is due for service, oil change etc. It will come on every 5k and can be shut off at the dealer. Your owners manual should have the details.

Rich S.

97 BSR S3 850R