This topic has 33 comments in the Volvo forum.

Volvo S60: Sorting out ETM vs Transmission Problems

Installing a new rebuilt transmission without doing the following is fruitless:

  • Full transmission fluid flush
  • Go to a dealer or Volvo indie shop to get rid of the stop neutral transmission “feature”
  • Clear and reset all the adaptions
  • And do a new drive cycle

Whenever the transmission is overhauled or replaced, the valve body is replaced or the transmission control module (TCM) is replaced, the shift adapts must be cleared and relearned. Failure to perform these procedures can result in shift feel and downshift clunk complaints, as well as reduced transmission life.

Transmission Clunk Gone After Volvo Dealer Service?

BobbyC » 

I got my car back $350 later (flush/fill and delete adapts-they said even though the TNN showed my year and S/N that it did not apply to my car, though he couldn’t say why).

Transmission shifts WAY worse than before, but the service manager said that it would take weeks before it learned the new adapts. I had asked for a drive-cycle to be done, but he said they no longer do that. Hopefully it will smooth out somewhat.

I did notice the fuel computer had zero’d out (not the trip odometers), and I am now getting 4mpg less fuel economy than before, but I guess when they delete the TCM adaptations, they also delete ALL adaptations in the main computer as well. Hopefully my old MPG will return as it gets used to my driving. With the brand new ETM, I was getting 27.5 mpg around town (suburban driving), and 30mpg on the highway (vs. 21 around town, and 25 highway w/ the old ETM).

I see they did not use 3309 ATF (which according to Mobil is NOT a synthetic), but rather used an unnamed synthetic ATF, which I suppose if it’s the dealer, is an approved fluid.

Time will tell if it learns to shift better.

I asked about sticking solenoids or valve body components, and he said he has never seen either of these conditions unless TCM codes were set, and my trans. showed no codes at all.

He also said installing a new Valve Body is a waste of money, and the only real solution is to install a complete Volvo unit at about $4500 plus labor, which I have to admit is not economically justifiable at this point given the car’s book value and the fact that it DOES get me around, albeit with some roughness, as is. I’d be better off selling the car and buying something else that does not have a problem. Anything that eats two transmissions in 100k miles (only 20k on the second) concerns me, though I understand this AW trans is used on a LOT of FWD cars these days.

What is a reasonable life for a 2001 S60?

Thoughts on EMT vs Transmission Problems?

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Last Updated on August 26, 2022

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