🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Volvo

Model:

C70

Model Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

M56 (manual), AW50-42LE (automatic)

Vin Code Year:

V

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Luxury Sports Coupe/Convertible

Target Audience:

Discerning buyers seeking a blend of Scandinavian design, safety, performance, and luxury in a sporty package.

Key Competitors:

BMW 3 Series Convertible, Mercedes-Benz CLK Convertible, Audi A4 Cabriolet.

Design:

Distinctive 'Thor's Hammer' front-end design (evolving), sleek coupe and retractable hardtop convertible body styles, focus on clean lines and aerodynamic efficiency.

Safety:

Volvo's renowned safety focus, including Side Impact Protection System (SIPS), WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System), and robust structural integrity.

Convertible Top:

The convertible variant features a sophisticated power-operated retractable hardtop, a significant differentiator at the time.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Yes

Transmission:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Steering:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

Climate Control:

Yes

Body And Frame:

Yes

Interior Trim:

Yes

Convertible Top Mechanism:

Yes

Diagnostics:

Yes

Troubleshooting:

Yes

Page Count:

Approx. 1500+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed coverage of engine control unit (ECU) functions, sensor inputs, actuator outputs, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and emission control systems.

Fuel System:

In-depth information on fuel injection, fuel pump, fuel filter replacement, pressure testing, and injector diagnostics.

Cooling System:

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, fan clutch/electric fan operation, coolant types and capacities, and leak detection procedures.

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), timing adjustments, and troubleshooting.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust manifolds, and gasket replacement procedures.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive axle shafts, CV joints, propeller shafts (AWD models, though C70 is FWD), and differential.

Brakes System:

Front and rear brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid bleeding, ABS system components, and parking brake adjustments.

Suspension System:

Front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, sway bars, bushings, and wheel alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods, and fluid specifications.

Electrical System Power:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, and charging system testing.

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb replacement, and wiring for lighting circuits.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, condenser, evaporator), heater core, blower motor, cabin air filter replacement, and climate control module diagnostics.

Interior Systems:

Seat adjustments, airbag system (SRS) components and precautions, dashboard removal, and interior paneling.

Convertible Top Hydraulics:

Hydraulic pump, cylinders, lines, switches, and troubleshooting for the power-operated convertible roof.

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, bumper removal, and rust prevention.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed step-by-step guides for all routine maintenance tasks as per Volvo's recommendations, including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and inspections.

Engine Overhaul:

Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for the engine, including piston ring replacement, bearing clearance checks, valve adjustments, and cylinder head gasket replacement.

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid and filter replacement, seal replacement, clutch inspection (manual), and torque converter service (automatic).

Brake System Repair:

Disc brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding procedures, and ABS sensor testing/replacement.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Replacement of struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, and wheel bearings.

Steering Component Repair:

Power steering pump replacement, steering rack service, and replacement of steering components.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common electrical faults, including using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and interpreting wiring diagrams.

HVAC System Repair:

Refrigerant system servicing (properly, with safety warnings), blower motor replacement, heater core replacement, and cabin filter replacement.

Convertible Top Repair:

Troubleshooting and repair of hydraulic leaks, electrical faults, and mechanical issues within the convertible top mechanism.

Body Panel Replacement:

Procedures for removing and installing fenders, hoods, doors, trunk lids, and bumpers.

Interior Trim Removal:

Guidance on removing dashboard components, door panels, and pillar trim for access to underlying systems.

Diagnostic Trouble Code Interpretation:

Comprehensive listing and explanation of OBD-II codes specific to the 1999 Volvo C70 and corresponding diagnostic procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive

Diagnostics:

Includes advanced diagnostic strategies, component testing, and waveform analysis for complex systems.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, special tool requirements, and component alignment guides.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Precise technical specifications, clearances, and tolerances for all major components.

Rebuild Instructions:

In-depth guidance for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text

Printability:

Printable pages

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 5-cylinder, turbocharged

Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2435 cc)

Engine Code:

B5244T (Turbocharged variants)

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 5100 rpm (for non-low-pressure turbo), 205 hp @ 5100 rpm (for higher output turbo, e.g., T5 variants)

Torque:

236 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm (for non-low-pressure turbo), 243 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm (for higher output turbo)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (M56)

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (AW50-42LE)

Automatic Transmission Modes:

Sport mode for more aggressive shift points.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

178.4 inches

Width:

70.4 inches

Height:

54.7 inches (Coupe) / 55.1 inches (Convertible)

Wheelbase:

104.1 inches

Seating Capacity:

4

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 13.0 cu ft (Coupe) / Approx. 8.0 cu ft (Convertible with top up)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300-3500 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

Not specifically rated for 1999 model year, but known for structural integrity.

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for the platform it's based on, the S70/V70)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional or standard on higher trims (TRACS - Traction Control System).

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags, optional side-impact airbags (SIPS bags).

Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, energy-absorbing crumple zones.

Whiplash Protection:

Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) in front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium audio systems often featuring Dolby Surround Sound and cassette/CD players. Optional navigation systems were available.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Climate Control:

Optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) providing precise temperature regulation.

Telematics:

Early telematics systems, such as Volvo On Call, may have been available on some models for emergency assistance.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Cabin Air Filter:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (if equipped).

Spark Plugs:

Every 60,000 miles (typically for iridium or platinum tipped plugs).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial: Every 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first (non-interference engine, but belt failure can cause secondary damage).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil (API SG/SH or higher).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.8 quarts (5.5 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Volvo Premium Coolant (Blue) or equivalent G-05 (OAT) coolant.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

AW-1 or Dexron III/Mercon. Fluid and filter change every 50,000 miles is recommended.

Mass Air Flow Sensor:

Can become dirty, leading to rough idle or poor performance. Cleaning or replacement often resolves.

Ignitor Coils:

Early models can experience premature failure of ignition coils and igniter modules, causing misfires.

Turbocharger Hoses:

Vacuum hoses and turbocharger hoses can degrade and crack, leading to boost leaks and performance issues.

Convertible Top Hydraulics:

Hydraulic lines can leak, or the pump may fail, affecting convertible top operation. Regular inspection and fluid checks are important.

Interior Electronics:

Window regulators, central locking, and power seat motors can fail due to age and wear.

Heater Control Panel:

Can develop faulty solder joints or actuators, leading to inconsistent HVAC operation.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Volvo Car Corporation, a Swedish manufacturer with a long-standing reputation for safety, durability, and innovative design since its founding in 1927.

Platform Basis:

Based on the Volvo S70/V70 platform (P80 platform), shared with the 850 series.

Introduction Year:

The C70 was introduced in 1997 as a 1998 model year vehicle.

Generations:

First Generation (1997-2005). The 1999 model year falls within the initial production phase.

Manufacturing Location:

Uddevalla, Sweden (originally) and Ghent, Belgium.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

While specific awards for the 1999 C70 are not widely publicized, Volvo vehicles of this era consistently received high marks for safety from various independent testing agencies and insurance institutes due to their advanced safety features.