TCU Software Update Issue on 2000 V70

Post by **egornygr** » 02 Dec 2012, 20:40

I had the TCU software updated on my 2000 V70 non-turbo a few weeks ago, but it is now performing as though the update never happened - clunky shifting/hesitation when accelerating from a near stop, and other things consistent with the stop-neutral switch issue.

Is it possible that the TCU somehow reverted to the old software?

Note: This occurred two days after installing a xemodex ETM. Two ETMs, actually. The first one they sent me had the wrong software.

Post by **precopster** » 03 Dec 2012, 06:25

The early built AW 55-50SN has many issues. The place to begin is with the B4 servo cover. IPD sell them for around $25 and they have instructions on how to fit on their website. A fluid change with Mobil 3309 or other JWS 3309 rated fluid then fluid counter reset via Vida/Dice will complete the install.

Post by **egornygr** » 03 Dec 2012, 07:39

I forgot to mention that I'd had the transmission replaced prior to installing the ETM. The transmission is new and not rebuilt.

The timeline is as follows:
About two months ago I noticed that the intermittent issue with the shifting was getting worse, and it seemed like the transmission was slipping.
I decided to have the dealer replace the transmission.
This didn't solve any of the problems, and I returned to the dealer who then updated the TCU software.
The shifting improved, however what I assumed was a "slipping" issue was still present - at low rpms the car would kind of slip and surge. Very intermittent, and I could not reproduce this when driving with the tech from the dealer.
Nevertheless, I set about researching possible causes and discovered the ETM issue, which seemed like a likely cause.
Replaced the ETM which addressed the gamey throttle, but now the intermittent shifting issue seems to be back.

So I'm willing to try a new servo cover, but given that it is a new transmission would that still be your recommendation?

Post by **precopster** » 03 Dec 2012, 13:58

Was the tranmission from a Volvo dealer or independant trans dealer? Generally Volvo would address the servo cover during reconditioning as a matter of course.

My own 2000 V70 non turbo has the original trans at 163k miles and I do have 2-3 shift flare and the slipping from 3rd to 2nd with a sudden take-up of second gear which jerks the car. It's miles better after the B4 cover, new fluid and adaptation but still annoying. My ETM has been refurbished with a non contacting sensor by me 12 months ago.

You may have to wait until you can replicate the fault for the dealer. When the trans fluid temp is high these faults are more likely to occur so take it for a hard drive before returning to the dealer. What surprises me is that the dealer had to upgrade TCM s/w after a new trans which should include TCM s/w upgrade to prevent damage and wear to new trans. If it was indie shop they generally don't do sw upgrade and are unaware of its importance.

Post by **jimmy57** » 03 Dec 2012, 14:04

The gearbox will have a year, if not two years, coverage. GO back and let them know the issue is not resolved.
I would think the TCM upgrade did not fix the issue as it is hardware caused and the software could not overcome the problem.

Post by **egornygr** » 03 Dec 2012, 14:43

Thanks. I just made an appointment to bring it back to the dealer. They gave me a two year warranty for the transmission - which was new (still very shiny) and came from the Volvo warehouse. I'm wondering if it has the original servo cover design...

Anyway, I was definitely surprised that they returned the car to me initially when it drove so poorly, and that they didn't think to do the software update until after I brought it back.