The engine temp gauge seems to always be on the low end, bottom 1/3rd range, unless the A/C is on and the car is sitting at idle for awhile. Then it shoots up to the red in about 5 minutes. I had the dealer change the thermostat but the problem persists. Took it back to the dealer and now they say that the controller/computer in the dashboard needs to be changed (I am paraphrazing here, but something to that effect). Nevertheless, the cost, because of the labor involved in removing the dashboard is supposed to be in the range of $600.00 so I am wondering whether this would really solve the problem, or are they egg-hunting for the problem at my expense.

Thanks for any help.

Thanks for all the answers... I did a better search and found all the info I needed.

Just in case you are wondering, the dealer in question is 355 Volvo in Rockville, Maryland. They have been pretty good at maintaining our cars (92 244; 89 745 and 98 V70) but I always seem to leave the place $700 to $800 poorer...no matter how inconsenquential the problem seemed to be.

Thanks again

How much is an oil change, $149.95?

search in the past posts here, there are tons of responses to your very problem. All you need to do on your late model 240 is jump the board like the previous poster said. It is very simple and doesnt require a NASA certificate to figure out. There are some great pictures posted in the past couple of weeks that will help you visualize what is needing to be done. With a little time and understanding you can figure this out and save 600 bucks. Save that money for you childs future or a reall, REALLY fancy night out on the town.

Ryan
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VOLVO LOVER WITH AN 80 AND AN 82

$600 is ridiculous!

It too me 45 min. and $0 to fix this problem and I had never done it before. That works out to $800 per hour. And that's just crazy. Like the others said, search archives and you will fine nice instructive pictures and the like.

-Steve

wow... that's ridiculous. check IPD for a temperature compensation board jumper wire, with the instructions to install. I think it's 15 bucks. ridiculously overpriced for a 2 inch wire, but the instructions allowing you to do it yourself are a good price justification. Haven't done this yet myself, as my gauge hasn't acted up yet. but it's nice to know the option is there.