Idle problems / stalling - Is my ETM dead? (02 S60 T5)

[mark-e-mark]

Hi guys (& gals).

My mechanic suggested I may have an ETM problem and advised taking my 2002 S60 T5 to the dealership (they do not have computers that can check the ETM). I'm a bit wary of the local dealership (bad experience in past) and would appreciate some input from the more mechanically minded to give me ideas as to whether it really is my ETM causing problems (so that I'm less likely to be taken for a ride).

When I talked to the dealership they stated it would cost ~$1,300 (Australian) to replace the ETM if it was faulty.

This idle/stalling problem almost caused me to be totalled the other day. I need it fixed. My Volvo is supposed to keep my safe, not increase my risk of dying! The dealership is yet to get back to me with their suggestions. I'm happy to pay for a new ETM if it truly is an ETM problem and it really does cost that much to replace.

Below is a summary sheet of all the information regarding the problem that I gave the dealership. All ideas/input welcome as to the problem.

Thanks guys.

Mark.

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Problem
- Intermittently stalls or lacks power (‘limp’ mode) when apply throttle from idle

Last working
- Was working without issue till fuel pump replaced by my mechanic just prior to Christmas
- When they went to hand car back, began stalling, kept over Christmas period and seemed to self ‘rectify’, however, problem has recommenced. Initially considered to be air in fuel lines.
- Recommended to take to dealership to perform ETM analysis

Further details of problems
- Occurs intermittently – can drive fine, then suddenly ‘appear’ at the most unsafe of moments!
- When occurs, all service lights on dash will appear briefly, then disappear
- When occurs, appears to idle rough with revs ‘all over the place’ – at times, pressing on the accelerator appears to have NO effect
- Only occurs at idle / low revs – no issue when over 20km/hour
- Tends to occur more frequently when the car is started warm than from a cold start

Known Volvo ETM problems
- Known ETM problems with five-cylinder variants using Magnetti Marelli ETM (Includes MY1999-2002 S60).
- Past software updates and recalls in US of this ETM (2006)
- Known failure of Magnetti Marelli ETM due to potentiometer wear

My thoughts on potential cause
- Dirty ETM causing plate to stick when comes to rest at idle (would also explain why more likely to occur when engine is warm due to expansion of surrounding metal body)
- Potentiometer wear
- Dead ETM