Volvo: C70 ETS Warning Light, volvo specialist, volvo dealer

Question
Jimmy, thanks. I believe the car was registered Dec '98. The mechanic was adament that it had an ETM as he was trying to upgrade the ECU at the time! (to aRICA spec) he couldn't be sure he'd completed the job sucessfully because of the problems with the throttle. He's an experienced tuner... I don't have any reason to doubt...or should I?

His view was, "its now reprogrammed but to be sure you'll have to get the ETM sorted out." Although he kindly said that he would reprogramme the ECU free of charge if Volvo 'flashed' the ECU back to standard spec.

Thanks for your help so far.
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Followup To
Question -
Hi Jimmy,

The ETS warning light on my '98 C70 Coupe (2.5t LPT) comes on intermittently. It also hunts whilst idling. I had it checked out by a Volvo mechanic who thought the problem could be Volvo's Throttle Control Module (TCM) and that the unit should be replaced, rather than the pedal or 'drive-by-wire' system.

I heard that it is a known issue to Volvo, who have have repeatedly tried to sort out their TCM's and are now on their 6th (?) try with Bosch. Do you think the technician is right and could I attempt to get Volvo to repair this if it is a known issue? (Car is now out of warranty I think). It's an expensive fix otherwise..!! Help!

Answer -
Hello Chris! Are you sure about the year of the car? 98 models did not come equipped with an electronic throttle. On 99 and up models it is a very common problem. The electronic throttle module (ETM) may need to be replaced. The job may cost around 800-1000 dollars depending on the shop. Only a Volvo dealer or a Volvo specialist would be able to replace it for you since special tools and a software download are needed. What fault codes are stored? I'll be here if you need more help.

Jimmy

Answer
Hey Chris! I really need to know the exact year of the car. From what you are telling me I can't make sense of what your mechanic is saying. If the ETM is bad, he should not have even attempted to re-program anything. Is this a dealer you are going to? If not what tools are they using to come up with this diagnosis?

Jimmy