Well thank you very much for your question. The answer comes in a few different parts. I hope that it is not too long to follow.

First the fault lies in the electronic throttle module (ETS). The first generation throttle modules were particularly troublesome. For most of those cars, Volvo has extended the warranty on these parts for 10 years, up to 200,000 miles.

With that being said, they make sure that the module is bad before they replace the module. There was a software download for those cars, it was called recall 155. This was to improve the performance of the modules.

Next, They will want to see if the oil has been changed regularly. The procedure might be to have you pay for the software download up front (or authorize if its available). Then they run a 'sweep test' This measures the 2 potentiometers in the throttle module. If the deviation does not exceed 13 degrees, your car passes the sweep test.

The last thing that we are told to check is crankcase pressure. There is an expensive gauge that we use to measure this. Negative pressure is what is called for. If you have positive crankcase pressure then that will need to be fixed first.

Ok, one last thing that I just remembered... If you can find the fuse block located on the drivers side strut tower remove the top cover. You are looking for a 12 mm nut. it holds down the power supply from the battery. If this is connector is burnt (the wires will look like they were in a fire) They will require that to be replaced as well.

There is no alternative repair for this module, no by pass mode. The dealer has to install software after the module is put in. This makes working on Volvo's expensive. Most of the time only the dealer will invest in the expensive tooling required to do the scope of this job.

You should ask before the repairs are started, if your car is still under the extension of warranty. Being a 2000, it should be, but it would be better to know upfront than to be surprised with a $1200 repair. I hope this is of great value to you.

Thank your VERY much.