I have an intermittent ABS fault light. Fault code was diagnosed and the connectors cleaned and re-attached. The light came on again (intermittently) after 3 days of driving (100km/day). Guess its time for me to get ready to part with my money!!! And maybe expect the same after another five years for the ABS (and the EMS too)!!!

Yesterday I also came to realise that the steering was slightli heavy while manoeuvering left corners. The right sweeping corners are ok. The car, I felt, somewhat unstable too while doing the left. The condition became more obviuous to me recently. In the past I had though it was my imagination. Though I had not had any alignment problems while driving, I took in to the tyre shop to inspect the condition of the tyres. They were ok and no uneven wear seen. I called-up the workshop and I was told that some "steering bushing/stopper" could be worn off and was told to bring the car for inspection.

The above steering problem may not be specific to either Volvos or S70, but a general car problem. However, thought I'd ask the forum for some comments.

Another problem. Whereever I am at the basement care park, going down the ramps to the lower floors, I need to make almost full turns to my steering wheel. I can hear the tyres rubbing against the car.

Can anyone please share their experiences with me? Thanks.

All the ABS control units (Installed on 96 and newer 850, 70 series and S80 models) will eventually fail after they reach 65,000 miles or 5 years. The average is 85,000 miles and/or 6 years for failures.


Here's more information on this issue and a replacement alternative.
Brickboard link Vitor's Volvo ABS website

It is good to know that someone might be able to actually fix the ABS module and make it last longer. Over here in Malaysia, this was what I was quoted by the authorized workshop, RM 3,931.00 which is equivalent to almost USD1,000 AND it excludes labour charges etc. Not long a ago, I had replaced the EMS module. I think I might end up as "one of the Ukrainian guy who had to pay USD 125 and still save USD 500/-". I have got your contact and will write to you and see the best way to do this.

The ABS issue is the ABS module. You can take that off yourself and send it to be repaired. There was a thread a while back with the web site and the address where those could be sent for permanent repair. Or you could buy another Volvo one and be ready in a few more years to have it go bad also.

The steering stops keep the tires from rubbing, so those are probably worn. That is likely why your tires are rubbing on hard turns.