So I brought my 1999 S70 w/ 111k miles into my local indy's shop today. The ETS light has been on for the past 2 months and, during that time, the engine's performance has steadily declined. To my surprise and delight, the mechanic told me that the throttle body did not need to be replaced, but that it was gunked up and just needed a good cleaning. Picked the car up tonight and it really does run great - no ETS light. So my question is, how much time does this $48 repair buy me? Has anyone had a similar experience?

I tried the same things, hoping to get a few more months out of my 99 T5's Electronic Throttle Module. It worked, but I eventually had to replace it. Here's a hint- if you hunt for it, you can often order a new ETM online or from a parts store that carries Volvo parts. I got mine for several hundred dollars cheaper than the dealer wanted, and if you have an indy w/ VADIS, he can install it for you. But ask him first to make sure. I had mine done for about $600, including the part itself. Use the borrowed time to find a new throttle body- you're gonna need it.
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1999 S70 T5, K&N free flow, boost gauge

I have a 1999 big turbo and had a rare success story where cleaning fixed the problem. MY TB was not really that dirty, the car had no warning lights and performed well, but hunted at idle. The dealer had actually wanted to replace the TB...but I did some research and talked to the dealer tech. It was a plugged "banjo hole" in the manifold which should be cleaned as part of a proper TB cleaning. This requires either removal of the manifold or removal of the power steering pump for access. The job was about $370. I realize I paid realer prices and for dealer support and follow up. But but for $48 I'm sure you didn't get your hole cleaned like I did. (Okay...when you stop laughing, I'd like someone who knows to explain to me how you do a proper TB cleaning and whether the banjo hole can be more easily cleaned than the tech indicated.) It doesn't seem to me that $48 is the complete job, but your car is running better, so right now you are lucky.

Had my indy, who also has a VADIS system due 60K maint on our V70, TB part of
regular maintenance, took it out, bled new brake system, replaced air filter, flushed cooling system, replaced thermostat, new plugs, serp belt plus many "little" things, charger system etc. not bad for under $500.00, will they see me again, yepper, dealer wanted close $1400 then offered me a slight discount when I moaned and groaned. This indy has three master mechs inc owner. Myself I keep crossing fingers and whatever on TB. I did some checking on extended
warranties specifically on TB replacements, nobody will cover this being a Volvo
or whatever make. Even National who a lot of dealers use will not cover this unit.
Have to read the fine print IF they give you a policy to read over before you plunk down the bucks. Thats another gimick in my mind, most want money up front
then if you and your mech doesnt like it, return the policy and get your money back. Whose life-time here. Anyway good luck, keep rolling----

I bet he did not remove the throttle body, he just stuck a wet rag inside the throttle body.

In the rare case that he did remove the TB, then reward him. Buy him a bottle of Chivas Regal whiskey and tell him thanks again.
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'88 240, '92 745, '98 v70 John, Tampa Bay

On a non-turbo, it's easy; on a turbo, it's a bit of a pain, and I wouldn't do it for $48.00. As far as how much time the cleaning will buy you...hmmm...did the tech throw in a crystal ball for that $48.00?

It's a win-some, lose-all eventually, kinda thing.

Chris