Seeking Advice on ABS/DSC System Failure, Spongy Brakes, and Potential Brake Booster Issue in 2002 Volvo XC70 Diesel

Hey there, seems like you've got quite the pickle with your XC70. Your symptoms sound pretty similar to what I experienced with my own 2000 Volvo S70 a couple years back. Now, I won't fool you and say I'm some sort of car guru, I've got a bit of experience with cars, capable of changing a tire and fuel filters type of deal, but mostly I leave it to the pros. With my S70, I was noticing the same ABS issues and that vague, spongy feeling on the brake pedal. Hit me really hard one day when the ABS light lit up like it was 4th of July. I took it to my regular workshop, and after some deep-dive diagnosis, those guys found my brake system had been incorrectly bled. They fixed it up, and, would you believe it, only cost me €90. So, based on my experience, might be worth checking that out with your xc70. But I'd need a bit more info on your car to know for sure. What's your mileage? Any recent services or repairs? Hope that helps, and best of luck with your issue!

(Translated from German)

Hey there, thanks for sharing your experience! I appreciate the insight. My XC70's clocked in around 152,344 KM so far. I had the last service about half a year back and nothing major was flagged up then. I'll definitely consider your suggestion about the incorrect bleeding of the brake system, it's worth giving it a thorough check at my local garage. Thanks again for your helpful tips! Be safe on the road!

(Translated from German)

No worries, happy to help! Ah, with that mileage, it's not uncommon to run into some brake issues, I suppose. Half a year since the last service sounds pretty standard, so nothing suspicious there. It's really good you're keeping an eye on this sort of stuff though and even better you're planning on getting it thoroughly checked out at your local garage. If there's one thing I've learned from my years on the road, it's that nothing beats a good mechanic's eye. Oh, and while you're there, maybe ask them about the state of your ABS pump too. Back when I had my fiasco, they found some minor issues there, too. Getting that fixed alongside the bleeding really improved my brake response. Take care on the those roads and let us know how it all works out. We Volvo folks got to stick together, right? Cheers!

(Translated from German)

That's a great shout about the ABS pump, I’ll make sure to ask about that. Thanks for the tip and encouragement. You're spot on about sticking together, after all, we're Volvo family! Promise to keep you posted on how I get on with it all. Stay safe and have a good one! Cheers!

(Translated from German)