Hello- My mom has a '99 S70 (base model) which we all love.

This morning, however, something strange happened to the car. When my mom got in the car to head to work this morning, she put the key in the ignition as usual and tried to start it. The engine caught for about 2 seconds, then died. She tried starting it again, but all that resulted was the cranking sound. I then allowed her to use my own Volvo since she was going to be late.

I then took matters into my own hands. I cranked the S70 over for about 3-4 seconds and all I got was the cranking sound. Then I put my foot on the gas and pressed it halfway to the floor, as stated in the owner's manual when one is trying to start a cold engine that hasn't been running for a few days. I turned the key again, and the engine did catch, but only for a second before it died again. I let it rest for a minute or two, then cranked it over again. Nothing. Then I cranked it once more for about 6-8 seconds, holding the gas halfway down. I felt the engine catch, then stumble as if to stall. I stabbed the gas repeatedly to prevent the engine from stalling for about 15 seconds, then when I released my foot it had settled down to a normal idle.

Keep in mind, I took the car out yesterday to wash it, and did not run the engine for 30 seconds or more when it was going in and out of the garage. The car is idling outside right now, and I will shut it off soon and restart it in an hour to see what happens. Any thoughts on what could be the problem?