1999 S80 2.9 Major tune-up issues

Post by **rwaltco** » 27 Aug 2008, 13:14

I just got a call from the local Volvo store re: my S80 (non-turbo) had no fault codes for the ETM. They say it's the after market NGK plugs and that these cars just don't do well on after market plugs, It needs a fuel filter, and all coil packs as well as complete injection service. A mere $1400.00 (LOL)

What plugs DO work well with these? What plug wires? Changing the fuel filter myself? Easy to do?

850FLA · Post by **850FLA** » 27 Aug 2008, 13:55

rwaltco wrote:I just got a call from the local Volvo store re: my S80 (non-turbo) had no fault codes for the ETM. They say it's the after market NGK plugs and that these cars just don't do well on after market plugs, It needs a fuel filter, and all coil packs as well as complete injection service. A mere $1400.00 (LOL)

What plugs DO work well with these? What plug wires? Changing the fuel filter myself? Easy to do?

That's a chunk of money

I changed to NGK plugs on my 850 and only notice a difference at idle...it tends to wander ever so slightly. I am going to get Volvo plugs.

That said I would ask why an injection service and what will they do? The fuel filter should be an easy DIY [assuming you take the usual working around fuel precautions] and I know on my Fcar and Porsche I was able to clean the injectors myself and the seals etc are easy to replace. If they are only going to clean the injectors use a bottle of Techron Fuel Injector cleaner

Post by **vegasjetskier** » 27 Aug 2008, 15:01

rwaltco wrote:I just got a call from the local Volvo store re: my S80 (non-turbo) had no fault codes for the ETM. They say it's the after market NGK plugs and that these cars just don't do well on after market plugs, It needs a fuel filter, and all coil packs as well as complete injection service. A mere $1400.00 (LOL)

What plugs DO work well with these? What plug wires? Changing the fuel filter myself? Easy to do?

I'd try changing the plugs first to Volvo OEM: http://www.eeuroparts.com/Main/PartDeta ... id=8692071 I don't know why they're not sold in a package of 6, but you could call and ask for a sixth one (or just buy it from the dealer).

Then change the fuel filter. It's under the right side of the car in front of the fuel tank: http://www.fcpgroton.com/category-exec/ ... y_year/49/

If it still runs bad, I'd then switch out the coils: http://www.eeuroparts.com/Main/PartDeta ... d=30713416

Also try a can of Chevron Techron Fuel System Cleaner in the tank to clean up the injectors.

You'll save a lot of money doing it yourself and it's not that hard to do. Plus, you'll get to know your car a lot better.

Post by **rwaltco** » 27 Aug 2008, 15:48

I'm currently running Bosch in my '97 Turbo wagon. Somebody made those "OEM" plugs for Volvo. Either Bosch, Denso or NGK. Dealer inferred that these 2.9 6's ran better on OEM plugs but not so on NGKs I'm rather Volvo astute mechanically so changing anything is not an issue. Just didn't know quite where the filter was on the S80

Another shop has indicated it could be the pre-pump or even the ignition pack that would cause it to suddenly die and all dash lights come on. Currently, no "check engine light" is on.

Car dies, surges, occasionally cuts out.

Post by **vegasjetskier** » 27 Aug 2008, 17:21

rwaltco wrote:I'm currently running Bosch in my '97 Turbo wagon. Somebody made those "OEM" plugs for Volvo. Either Bosch, Denso or NGK.

Well if you look really closely on the box it says "Made in Germany," so my guess is Bosch makes them.

rwaltco wrote:Car dies, surges, occasionally cuts out.

Maybe the fuel pressure regulator?

subdewd · Post by **subdewd** » 21 Sep 2008, 05:53

I find it hard to imagine a bad coil pack wouldn't set off a dtc.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 21 Sep 2008, 07:22

I agree with the last statement...typically with a bad coil you're going to get a misfire code on one of your cylinders. Once again, I think this is a case of the dealer trying to make as much money off of the customer as they can. Do what is stated above...plugs (Volvo's are recommended) and fuel filter, but make sure you gap your plugs correctly (incorrectly gapped plugs will cause the issues you spoke of as well). On V70's of that year it's 0.028 inches- not sure for your car....check your owner's manual- it's in there on the V70's so I would think it's in there for your car as well.