2001 xc70 dead xemodex etm

[phendriks]

Hello all,

Quick question. Does a dead ETM (Xemodex - 2 years old) cause the engine to not turn over at all?

Background. Bought car 2 years ago. Dealer installed Xemodex. Recently, car has developed flat spot at about 1500 rpm, as if throttle pedal isn't registering until you push past the "dead zone". Had it diagnosed at Volvo dealership a few weeks ago. VIDA came back clean, during 2 test drives, tech says the flat spot is either shifting into OD, A/C kicking in at defrost, etc. Whatever, it's bullshit. Car then started strangely the last week or so. Came home on tow truck yesterday. Engine won't crank at all. Various solenoids click, but starter won't engage. Don't think the starter solenoid is engaging either. Battery is good by the way.

ETM or is there some sort of alarm system interlock that I don't know about? Tried different scenarios locking/unlocking doors with/without key, to no effect.

Thanks in advance.

Cheers, Phendriks

[xHeart]

For a start, this may help a little https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=57650&p=292395

[vtl]

Find starter (under intake manifold), it has two wires: thick one, which feeds starter's motor, and thin, which controls solenoid. That control wire on these cars has a common problem: connector oxidizes over time, starter won't turn. You need to disconnect it, clean both contacts with sand paper/knife/screwdriver/whatever, connect it back. Make sure connection is tight and starter works, then disconnect it again, put some dielectric grease, snap back.

Alternatively, you may have failed starter. Aftermarket starter is below $100 on ebay.

[vtl]

Regarding your "dead zone" issue: is it getting better if you disconnect VVT control solenoid?