Help diagnose low heat

coldax · Post by **coldax** » 10 Jan 2017, 11:44

Hi all, before I start messing about under the hood I'd like to get feedback and ideas from the group.

I have a US spec 2000 V70 - it has the base 2.4 n/a engine, FWD, 5 speed auto, 170,000 miles.

Outdoor temp has been in the teens (F) lately, and when I drive the temp needle barely moves and the level of heat barely comes out. If I stop and idle for a while the temp needle raises, but never to optimal, and 'hotter' heat comes out. The fan and vent controls work fine. No smell of anti-freeze. No visible leaking of anti-freeze outside. I don't know when the last time the anti-freeze was changed/flushed. I top off the reservoir once or twice a year as needed.

When the outdoor temp is above freezing the car heat is fine. Car never overheats.

I have my suspicions but I'd like to hear your thoughts or experience.

Thanks!

Post by **abscate** » 10 Jan 2017, 11:54

Either thermostat is kaput or your cooling system is plugged up. Coolant should be refreshed about every 2 years for most drivers per the manual.

Post by **FlyingVolvo** » 10 Jan 2017, 12:01

Your thermostat is broken in the open position. This is a quick 5 minute fix. Just be careful removing & installing the Torx screws as not to strip them. I would get a quality replacement from a site like FCP Euro or iPdUSA.

Post by **scot850** » 10 Jan 2017, 12:25

+1 on the stuck thermostat.

Also check the cold air flap doesn't have a broken lever arm. That requires removing the glove box and lower panel on passenger side to see. You might be able to see with just removing the glove box liner. The cold air lever arm is right behind there and is either white or black and about 2-3" long. This will not affect the low needle on the temp. gauge, but does reduce how much hot air gets into the cabin. Also make sure the cold air flap is closed by turning the rotary control to the left of the center dashboard vents to the closed position.

Neil.

Post by **rspi** » 11 Jan 2017, 02:16

Whatever you do, do NOT beat on the screws, I have no idea why people do that and destroy the thermostat housing. Not fun to replace.

coldax · Post by **coldax** » 12 Jan 2017, 08:41

I replaced the stat with Volvo 271664, with seal. Cost me $30.38 out the door from the dealer. This stat does not have the weep hole that the installed one has (I assume it is the original). The heat is working fine but the ambient temp yesterday was in the 50s, today it may hit 60 so I'll have to wait for a colder day to test it for sure. Thanks