Hi,
Does anyone know of a good source for a cheap PC-based OBD II diagnostic package for a V90?

I have a '97 V90 ('98 model) with an OBD II diagnostic socket. My local Volvo shop does not have the tool to read and reset DTCs. I have seen a couple of low-cost PC-based systems such as the Ease scan tool but they are only ISO 9141 generics and I don't think that they will cope with the Volvo-specific enhanced powertrain diagnostic code resets.

My specific problem was alternately flashing W/E lights and a flashing arrow on the dash. The transmission also locked itself into 3rd. This was diagnosed and reset by a main dealer (313 - PNP malfunction, 423 - ? and another code I couldn't read upside-down) but it would be good if I could read and reset the DTCs myself. The (friendly) local guys use s/h spares and their labour is 1/4 the cost of the main dealer.

TIA
Chris

I have a scanner set-up that was purchased from Harrison R&D but as far as I can speak from personal experience, it only works with the OBD-II generic engine related codes. The version of software I have includes PC as well as Palm Pilot at $147 US as I remember.

It was confusing to use because the default processor on the Volvo buss is not the engine ECU. I had to "switch" CPUs and then request engine codes before it reverted back to the default CPU. It did help me diagnose a bad 2nd O2 sensor.

If you find a better one that has some Volvo specific related features I'm sure we'd all like to hear about it.

I have a '96 965 w/OBD-II and the dealer better have the Scan tool. How else will he be able to fix an 850/70/80/60/40 series car?

The trans lights usually flash due to some problem, like overheating. Have you been driving then car especially hard?

Have you ever changed the trans fluid? I don't mean drain and fill, I mean an exchange. Old fluid out, new in. The instructions are in the 700/900 FAQ via the 'features' pull down menu. You can also go to a service place and have them change it. BG makes a machine to do this. You might also want to run some cleaner through it. The trans dip stick is below the brake booster (lhd) and if you are in the UK, easier to get at. It's not the long style dip stick but A short yellow one.

Try www.obdii.com

TRM,
Thanks for the response. I think the problem is a dodgey PNP switch. The started motor refused to turn the other day; and that, together with the 313 DTC, kind of points a finger at it.

The guys around the corner (there are just 2 of them in some old farm buildings) do the best that they can, but are not really up to doing much electronically apart from resetting the service light. However, they do have an array of smashed-up Volvos that they cannibalise for low-cost parts.

I haven't considered changing out the fluid yet, it has only done 58k miles, but I will drain some off to see if it is getting toasted. I have to admit that (at first glance) I couldn't see a dip stick (well not one like on my 960), but I will take another look when I get a chance.

www.obdii.com don't have any Volvo-specific s/w but they are looking for developers and I have turned out a few meg of code in my time, so perhaps it will all end happily.

But all suggestions are still welcomed.
TIA
Chris

Check these guys:

http://www.ghg.net/dharrison/obdscan.html

It hooks to your PC/laptop.

Keep the farmboys away from the engine. Use synthetic oil, Volvo/Mann filters, Volvo sparkplugs, Volvo antifreeze, change the timing belt at 70K miles or else!
--
Warren Bain - '86 744Ti M46 >282Kmi, '96 965 >97Kmi Wifemobile near Manassas Va

Chaps,
For your information: I settled for the system from Alex Peper who can be found at http://www.obd-2.com

For $136 inc P&P, the system displayed a P0705 - PRNDL malfunction - and after a swift change of PNP switches, I was also able to clear the code.

I will report on further progress, but at this stage it looks like money well spent.

All the best,
Chris