1999 S70 Transmission(maybe?) Issues

mitch944 · Post by **mitch944** » 06 Nov 2015, 11:55

Hi everyone,

I've been frequenting these forums for a few months now, and I finally have a reason to post here. I know these transmission posts are posted all the time, but I haven't yet found one that describes my experience.

About 2 months ago, my S70 started to put itself into winter mode with the flashing arrow on the dash. I shifted it back and forth a bunch to clear the contacts and it was back to normal for a while. Then, I started to notice slight loss of power, and sometimes at a complete stop it would be in Drive but would rev for a second or two when I stepped on the gas, then 'hard shift' into gear.

After about a week of this, I was driving home at about 45mph when it slipped out of gear completely and wouldn't engage in any gear. But, if I waited a few minutes then started it up again, I could drive for about 15 feet before it slipped out again.

So I had it towed to my Volvo dealer and they were quick to tell me that it would need a new trans, and would cost about $3500. I decided to take it home and do the swap myself. I followed the guide I found on here and had no real problems putting the new transmission in(used unit online with 110k, came with a new PNP as well).

Fast forward to today, and the new trans is in, new fluids, axle seals, torque converter, PNP, etc, I start it up with no issues but when I try to drive it, it does the exact same thing the old one did!!! It drives weakly and seems to not completely engage, then it soon does not drive at all. The Up arrow still flashes on the dashboard too.

I have no idea what to look at next, has anyone here seen similar issues or any ideas what this could be?? Thanks in advance

ferocity02 · Post by **ferocity02** » 06 Nov 2015, 12:15

Flashing up arrow indicates a trans fault. Did the dealer scan the code and tell you what it was?

Was there anything from the old transmission that you reused?

Faulty TCM maybe?

mitch944 · Post by **mitch944** » 06 Nov 2015, 13:09

The dealer did scan the codes but I didn't think to ask them what they were.

Nothing was reused from the old transmission

What would cause a faulty TCM? Almost all my driving is done on bumpy/dusty back roads, maybe some dirt got in it or something.

On a related note, what would the best code scanner be for around $150?

ferocity02 · Post by **ferocity02** » 06 Nov 2015, 14:17

You will need a special tool to be able to read Volvo-specific codes. VIDA, DiCE, VOL-FCR are some that come to mind. I do not know much about these, but I have ordered a vag-com cable to try to use VOL-FCR on my laptop.

Post by **kahl** » 06 Nov 2015, 15:22

I would call the dealer and ask for the codes from your work order...good place to start.