Volvo Repair: brake problems, master cylinder, brakes

Question
98 s70 suddenly developed a spongy brake  peddle but if the car is not running it is ok as soon as it starts it gose soft. I put new pads on and also bled the brakes with no luck

Answer
Andy, the Master cylinder is bad.  Usually bleeding the system helps on the 70 series but if you already did that then replace the Master cylinder.  Use a Genuine ATE Master cylinder.  Do not install one from a parts place unless they have ATE's.  You will be asking for trouble if you install anything other than an ATE.  Roger