1998 Volvo V70XC: ABS light or ABS activating

Filed Jul 29, 2010 · Driver assistance · 104,000 miles · TX

On a large number of volvos the ABS computer fails resulting in loss of proper braking. Normal use causes this, in this all to common failure, and volvo is aware of their short comings in this problem, thus far refusing to correct a highly dangerous condition that may have already resulted in injury and death. The replacement computers from volvo are of the same lack of reliability. This has been a major problem for years and certainly represents a serious failure in a critical system to the automobile. In addition to being a serious failure, volvo has made it a very expensive (hence profitable) repair. Estimates ranging from $500.00 to $850.00 for the repair are the norm. The part itself is around $500.00, so volvo makes a nice profit from each one replaced and is guaranteed another replacement further down the road since they have not even addressed the problem with their replacement units. To do so would be acknowledging a problem they are well aware of, so they wont. If ever a government mandated recall was appropriate this is it. It would seem that a car company as proud of their safety ratings as volvo is would be willing to correct this potentially fatal flaw. As they seem not to be it should be demanded of them. They should be mandated to recall all models prone to this failure and to be required to reimburse consumers that can produce receipts proving they had to have this repair done. There are rebuilders that can make the old unit stronger, more reliable, if you send it to them, so volvo could do it as well.

Filed Jul 16, 2007 · Brakes · WA

Since owning the vehicle (purchased used) I have had issues with the ABS and tracs systems. I noticed if the car was "cold" in a cold climate, the ABS/tracs system appeared to be functioning properly, if only for a few minutes. Otherwise, the ABS/tracs system failed to function altogether. The brakes would fail completely when the ABS module would transfer from functioning to non-functioning. The volvo mechanic stated this was a common problem and that the ABS module would need replacement at a cost of $700. My question is, if it's such a common problem concerning a vital safty part(the brakes) why has there not been a recall? This is one in a myriad of functional issues with this vehicle.

Filed Feb 17, 2005 · Brakes · 77,126 miles · NJ

Failure of ABS control unit on 1998 volvo xc70 automobile. According to dealers, it is a common failure and happens all the time. It renders the traction control and ABS system as not-working and it is an intermittent problem that causes the tracs and ABS systems to fail without any warning.

Filed Dec 27, 2004 · Brakes · PA

Prior to dealer visit for 60,000 mile service, the ABS and tracs lights began coming on periodically. Dealer checked and found codes ABS-314 & 324 set in system. Dealer stated that module replacement would cost approximately $675. Dealer said that although the lights indicated loss of ABS, braking ability should not be compromised. At that time I declined the repair. Since that service visit, the lights have continued to go on and off periodically; on several occasions, it occured during braking and it felt as though the brakes were not going to grab appropriately, if only momentarily. I am now wondering if this is a safe condition, especially with the onset of winter driving. When I saw the number of other complaints on the same issue at the federal safety agency website, I decided I should include my own. My suggestions for remediation range from: 1) have the manufacturer investigate the issue further, 2) have the manufacturer replace all modules that are reported to have this problem, or 3) at least have the manufacturer assist the customer by paying a portion of the replacement cost.

Filed Sep 21, 2004 · Brakes · NY

Abs brakes activated under normal driving conditions, tracs off, rear wheel spin in slippery conditions even with the tracks on. Took to the dealer and they replace the ABS control module (over $600). Car was behaving in an unsafe manner as the ABS brakes would activate and prevent car from stopping for a few seconds until the ABS system switched off.

Filed Oct 16, 2003 · Brakes · 50,000 miles · CA

Abs control module faulty at 55,000 -- ABS non-functional-- very common problem for this model and year.

Filed May 3, 2003 · Brakes · 146,000 miles · MO

Intermittent outage of ABS control module (tracs off/ABS warning lights on). Dealer states the brakes will still work with the lights on/faulty part. However, I don't feel "safe" in the car and feel the part is faulty and should be recalled by manufacturer. Brakes have since hesitated on two occasions while stopping. There were no brakes for a split second and then the brakes slowly (2-3 seconds) regained power and control of the car. Numerous other owners have encountered the same problem as the dealer (superior volvo) stated this is a common problem for this model.

Filed Jan 8, 2003 · Brakes · UT

Volvo cross country's from 1998 and possibly other model years are turning up with malfunctioning central control units for their ABS . It is hard to get information from the dealership regarding this problem, but it is clear the malfunction is widespread in this model and that it adversely affects the car's braking and ABS. Replacement of the part costs more than $500, which may prevent many volvo owners from quickly addressing the problem, which according to independent mechanics, poses a significant safety threat. I know first-hand the malfunction caused a significant deterioration in my cross country's handling and braking. Because this appears to be a product defect that affects the car's safety, I sincerely hope regulators will encourage volvo to do the right thing and issue a recall. Thank you.