V70: Code reading advice

[ScottyT]

Hi all, was hoping for some advice for a newbie

I've got a 99 V70 with an engine management light and also low coolant warning light on. For reading the fault codes, am I right in thinking that the generic OBD2 readers won't work? If not, what's the best way to get my alarm codes?

The low coolant warning light is false, the header tank is full but the light is still active. I have noticed that when I drain the expansion tank, the light will briefly go off when the tank is near empty but then raise again once totally empty.

Any help would be appreciated as it's my first attempt at fixing anything myself!

[Luxobarge]

A generic code reader will work for engine codes etc. but probably not alarm codes (mine's a '97 and my generic Autel reader works fine).

Coolant light on is usually the float in the header tank has sunk - happened on mine, I got a new tank from PFS which fixed it just fine. The float is integral to the tank, so not easy to fix without complete replacement.

[ScottyT]

Thanks, tried a cheap code reader from Euro Car Parts but it wasn't able to make any connection so got nowhere.

Will look into PFS for the header tank, sounds like an easy fix!

[cheshired5]

Dice and Vida work from 1999 model year so if your car is compatible, it's the most complete diagnostic system by some way.

[capt jack]

It's the 2.5 litre 10 valve 143bhp engine with the Fenix ignition system for which you can make a DIY flash code reader - but I think that engine management system was phased out in late 1998 early 1999.

If I remember correctly, if:

1. The engine top cover says VOLVO with no mention of 20V
2. The car has a throttle cable
3. The front grille Volvo badge has a black background
4. The engine code is B5252S
5. The engine top mount is the older black painted steel rather than shiny alloy
6. The car is non-turbo

Then chances are it is a Fenix system.

If so, then do a Google search and you'll find stuff on how to make your own flash code reader. It's very cheap and easy, although it's a bit limited in what you can find.

Jack

[ScottyT]

Double checked and I've got a 2.5D, engine code D5252T. Would I be right in saying that I need VOL-FCR for diagnosing fault codes?

[cheshired5]

Originally Posted by ScottyT

Double checked and I've got a 2.5D, engine code D5252T. Would I be right in saying that I need VOL-FCR for diagnosing fault codes?

Depends.
A 1999 D5252T with the 15.8 ECU for example can be read with Dice and Vida.
Pump timing, parts catalogue, workshop manual etc.