Software problems of the 2000 Volvo S80

Five problems related to software have been reported for the 2000 Volvo S80. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2000 Volvo S80 based on all problems reported for the 2000 S80.

1 Software problem

Failure Date: 04/21/2011

On April 21,2011 approximately 7:45am, my vehicle failed in accelerating power suddenly while driving. In addition, my vehicle jerk, skip, and shook uncontrollably. I had my car towed to my personal repair shop (reputable Volvo service, inc. ) my mechanic informed me after a diagnostic, that the throttle module needs to be replaced. He tells me that only the Volvo dealer would be the only repair service to replace this part due to the software program that included. So, once again, the car was towed the authorize Volvo dealer. The diagnostic here is the same, the throttle module needs to be replaced. There was a recall on this part, along with other parts. I was not informed about this through the dealer but through research of my own. The service manager tells me that I would have to contact Volvo manufacturer to see rather they would honor the recall of the replacement of this part. I contact the manufacturer and spoke with mrs. Marilyn and mrs. Jan and I was told that this part was past the warranty but they would honor the software update for this part. Also the engine cooling fan recall is still open but I have already had this part and labor done at my own expense due to the fact that I was not aware of the recalls. The throttle module is about $700. 00, this does not include labor or another software program. For my total repair cost is $1185. 00 and strongly feel that this is not fair because none of my parts were replaced through the recall. In other words I shouldn't have to pay for a part plus labor that was defective in production. I should be extended the same recall conditions that other Volvo owners were able to received. Volvo inc knows exactly what cars received their recall parts replacement and also which cars did not through their VIN number. Of course they would extend the software update program because it's less expensive. Please assist me. Thanks.

2 Software problem

Failure Date: 06/01/2008

As I understand it, the electronic throttle module (etm) on my 2000 Volvo S80 is in the process of failing. Two years ago, I had my vehicle serviced when it began surging forward when idling, even when I was braking. An etm software upgrade was done at that time and the etm was cleaned. Now, just short of two years later, I am having exactly the same problem again. As I am coming to a stop, my vehicle will suddenly and unexpectedly surge forward, even when my foot is on the brake. I am petrified that I am going to strike the back of another vehicle before I can arrange to get my car in for service. Further, when I put my car in park or use the ac system, my car comes to a near stall and just lurches all over the place. It simply cannot maintain an even idle when in park. Last week, for the first time, I became aware of the November 2006 recall concerning etms. This led me to look at my old service records, since I was having the same frightening problem that I had two years ago. Sure enough, there it was again - "customer states at idle revs up and surges. " I have already paid for this repair once. This is an extremely serious matter and my vehicle simply is not safe to drive.

3 Software problem

Failure Date: 10/01/2005

1. Following download of recall software performance has been vastly reduced and now only achieves 8. 2 mpg. 2. The abs control module functions intermittently and usually in the failure mode. Abs brakes do not function properly-replacement $950 3. While backing (cold engine), brakes fail to stop the car for several seconds (feet). 4. The vehicle stalls mostly on turns but on straight away. A. Car now shuts off approx 6-8 times while driving, dangerous while driving at interstate/highway speeds. It "surges" forward and the lights (dash and headlights) fade - vehicle stalls with no power steering or power brakes. 5. Cruise control fails ã‚?? up hills/down hills shuts down. Now is inoperable. 6. The electronic door locks malfunction intermittently. 7. Following error codes display and total mileage, trip 1 & 2 mileage displays default to ã‚?? --------ã‚?? and mileage does not log on the odometer: a. Brake failure stop ASAP b. Coolant level low stop ASAP c. Abs failure / service required d. Stc service required e. Power steering failure - service required f. Emission system service required g. Stop safely and restart engine h. Alarm system service required I. Alarm triggered j. Emission system service required k. No oil pressure stop ASAP l. Check engine. The ball joint, driver side window motor, sunroof switch were replaced. Numerous bulb replacements and replacement of mass flow sensor. The cooling fan malfunctioned. The abs control module would function intermittently which would cause the abs to not function. The power steering failed. The vehicle will completely shut off while driving. The cruise control was inconsistent, the vehicle would loose power with the cruise activated. The electronic doors malfunctioned, the fob does not always open the door and at times when closing the driver side door. Updated 12/15/06.

4 Software problem

Failure Date: 06/13/2004

June 13, 2004: car lost power on I-70 in ohio. Time - 10:00 pm; conditions clear. Vehicle dropped into "limp home mode" requiring that we drive in the breakdown lane to the nearest exit which was about 8 miles. Vehicle speed was about 20 mph max. - a dangerous situation on an interstate at night since both debris, dead animals and highway construction barriers required temporarily leaving the breakdown lane. Neither my wife nor I knew what was happening at the time. We were able to find a motel and had the car towed to the nearest Volvo dealership for repairs the next day. Car repairs included an etm, throttle body, the main control module (part #8601630), various diagnostic tests and software downloads. Time constraints necessitated our returning to connecticut by the next day so we ended up leaving the car and obtaining a rental. The dealership finished the repairs and had the car driven to us a couple of days later. A good part of the repair costs were absorbed by Volvo, however we did pay some. The reason for this complaint is concern for my wife's safety. She is the primary driver of this car, using it to commute to/from work on heavily traveled roads. We have since learned that these repairs do not permanently solve this problem. The car now has 95,000 miles on it - about 35, 000 more miles since the original failure. We are aware of Volvo's 10 year/200,000 mile warranty on the etm, but Volvo needs to find a permanent fix rather than risk my wife's or my safety.

5 Software problem

Failure Date: 04/13/2001

Engine and car completely shut down on 2 occasions (4/13/01 and 7/27/01). Mass air flow sensor replaced initial instance and software updaed. Ignition nd fuel injection fault tracing. Unable to isolate cause second instance. Intermittent communication fault at electronic throttle module. Unable to duplicate problem. Refuse pick-up of the car at royal Volvo since very concerned about safety issues. Have notified Volvo customer services twice, Volvo dealership, NHTSA, office of attorney general. Thorough letter being sent to NHTSA, center for auto safety, and office of attorney general on 8/6/01. Please thoroughly review the content. Major concerns----have found at least 6 other instances of the same problem. Will send all documentation in the express letter being sent. Call if any questions and leave an 800 number for responses. Urge you to please take note. . . . This issue is broader than my own.




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Fuel Economy of S80 Vehicles
S80 Service Bulletins
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