Recalls: Volvo Mk.1 V70
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Volvo Mk.1 V70
- In September 1999, a recall was issued for model year 1997 and 1998 Volvo V70 vehicles due to a headlight switch on the instrument panel which may cease functioning – this could result in the headlights not being operable. On some vehicles, the passenger airbag may also have been sensitive to electrostatic discharge and, as a result, deploy inadvertently (PRA 1999/4079).
Problems and faults: Volvo Mk.1 V70
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
1999-00 Volvo V70: electronic throttle control software update – service campaign
In November 2006, Volvo initiated recall R155 in the USA to update the electronic throttle control software; while this recall was not initiated in Australia, a service campaign was. According to the recall notice, all 1999-00 model year Volvo V70 vehicles with naturally aspirated engines vehicles may experience the following symptoms:
- Entering ‘limp home’ mode (which limited power and engine speed); and/or,
- A warning lamp in the instrument cluster would illuminate and the ‘Service Required’ message would be displayed.
The recall notice attributed these symptoms to a combination of throttle positioning sensor irregularities, a dirty throttle housing and/or ‘inefficient’ software calibration. The electronic throttle control software upgrade that was installed as part of the recall enabled the system to better differentiate between glitches or minor disturbances, and real system faults. The software upgrade also reduced idle oscillations caused by dirt build-up in the throttle.
Itis understood that the service action for Australian-delivered vehicles included:
- Measuring pressure in the crankcase and cleaning the crankcase ventilation system. According to Volvo Cars Australia, a ‘high percentage’ of Volvo cars serviced outside its dealer service network experienced blocked crankcase breathers;
- Updating the electronic throttle module (ETM) software as per the R155 recall; and,
- Clearing any fault codes in the system.
Volvo Mk.1 V70: other problems and faults
- The oxygen sensors may fail prematurely – resulting in poor fuel economy – due to an exhaust leak, faulty MAP sensor or a defective vacuum valve in the secondary air intake system.
- The ‘check engine’ light may illuminate if liquids leak into the centre console and cause a short circuit in the mode switch. Alternatively, the oxygen sensor may have failed.
- In cold environments, water could enter the door handles and freeze.
- The rear main seal may deteriorate over time, resulting in oil leaking from the back of the crankshaft.
