Intermittent electrical problem

[tbase69]

I have a 1999 V70 XC AWD. Two months ago, it developed an intermittent problem. When I start it, I hear a loud ticking sound coming from the area of the dash. My rear wiper starts to run without being turned on, sometimes all the trouble lights on the dash flash on and off, the tach doesn't work, and it runs very badly. Sometimes after trying for three or four times, it will start and run just fine.
The Electronic Throttle Module failed four months ago, and I bought a used one on Ebay. It had been almost impossible to start, but after having that replaced, it ran fine for two days. Then this electrical problem showed up. The ETS light on the dash is always on, whether it is running fine or not. My mechanic and I are at our wit's end, and I can't afford to take it to a dealer. Does anyone have any ideas, other than demonic possession? Thank you.

[scot850]

Have you replaced the electrical portion of the ignition switch? This will cause most these issues. Try wiggling the key and see how it affects this problem. If it does it is overdue being replaced. The ticking in the dash may be a different issue. IT all sounds like an electrical short.

Also check the B+ cable inside the kidney shaped fuse box near the brake booster. The cable terminates with a nut at the front of the fuse box and it is prone to melting and then shorting out. If the end of the cable is not bright and shiny look below the nut at the cable carefully. Mine had completely melted. Worst case it can cause a major short and then set the car on fire. Affects 99-00 models most but not exclusively.

B+ cable at fuse box

You may also still have a faulty ABS module (a lot of use get a refurbished unit from Matty Moo at Mid-West ABS and contributor here). Again, check the main connector cable has seated correctly at the ABS module. The cables in that area can also crack or break so again check for shorts.

Neil.

[abscate]

The rear wiper is telling you the wiring bundle in the left rear hatch pillar has breaks and shorts in it. That can wipe out a lot of things. The ETS light on means you haven't solved your throttle body problem yet.