Hi everyone,

My 2001 V70 XC has for some time been presenting the intermittent "Start Prevented / Try Again" message that has already been discussed here in the forums. Sometimes it starts right up; other times it takes 5-15 key turns to get it to clear that message and start. As with other posters, my suspicion is a faulty RF antenna ring in the ignition unit.

To be sure this is the case, I took it to my dealer. Their diagnosis is the same as mine: faulty antenna ring. Solution: replace. However, their estimate also includes replacing both of my keys and some "software download" they claim is essential. Their total: $560, $380 of which is labor.

To my understanding, the antenna is code-independent, and replacing it shouldn't mandate replacing both keys or downloading new software. In addition, given that the antenna replacement only requires removing the steering column cover to get at it, where's all the additional labor going? I asked them these questions; they said they'd get back to me.

My inclination is that they're padding the cost, and I lean toward just doing the repair myself. Am I missing something?

As usual, any and all advice is greatly appreciated!
--Dana