Volvo Repair: Volvo s60 blackout, dana craig, periodic blackouts

Question
Here's my problem.  It just happens randomly.  I've never been able to get it to happen at a time when I can get it to the dealership.

Car dash has periodic blackouts.  You'll be driving and suddenly speedometer won't work, odometer won't work, gas gauge won't work, sometimes power windows won't work, clicker to lock the doors usually doesn't work.  Have to lock doors manually.  Let car sit for a while and clicker won't unlock the doors.  Have to use the key.  Alarm goes off.  Start car and blackout is gone.  Everything is working fine except the srs/airbag service urgent light is on.  Dealership says they can't diagnose the problem unless they can duplicate the problem.  It did not happen for them.  They say it's like finding a needle in a haystack.  the only thing they do is turn off the srs airbag light.  They don't fix the problem and charge me $130 for nothing.  

Isn't there some sort of diagnostic testing that can be done to figure out why this is happening?  This doesn't seem to be an uncommon problem.  I read a couple instances on some of those volvo forums online of the same problem happening to other Volvo owners.  Can you help?

Please let me know what you think.

Sincerely,

Dana Craig  

Answer
Isn't there some sort of diagnostic testing that can be done to figure out why this is happening?  This doesn't seem to be an uncommon problem.  I read a couple instances on some of those volvo forums online of the same problem happening to other Volvo owners.  Can you help

 Yes, and it's called VADIS. Supposedly a dealer only diagnostic tool. I have one, but am in Minnnesota. As all tools, it's only as good as the guy holding it. I would be looking at the (comfort)(body) module. It controls all these functions. Power is probably getting interrupted? The year would also be helpful for future reference. I also would look at the instrument cluster connection for integrity. HTH

Mark