Do it yourself
Frequently asked questions about cars and motorcycles

Cleaning the ETM Throttle Body

Model: Volvo S80 - Years 1998-2006
Part: Throttle body

ETM stands for Electronic Throttle Module; it is the throttle body which has a position sensor made up of a potentiometer that wears out due to contact sliding and eventually fails. This is a design flaw and a ticking time bomb as it is destined to fail sooner or later. Cleaning often improves the issue for a short period, but the fault reappears since it is not repairable except by replacing the ETM module. The first step is to unscrew the air hose clamp. Once the hose is removed, you can see the dirtiness of the regulator. You can clean the regulator without needing to disassemble the entire unit, simply using a special spray. Initially, clean the regulator's inlet using a cloth soaked in spray without touching the butterfly. Start the vehicle, and while the engine is running, spray the cleaner into the inlet without overdoing it, using short bursts. Ensure that no foreign objects are sucked in during this operation. If the butterfly is not touched, calibration is not necessary. Refit the hose.

Updated on 5 February 2026 by ScegliAuto

Video tutorial

Related tutorials

Volvo S80 (1998-2006 / ) ETM stands for Electronic Throttle Module, which is the throttle body that features a position sensor made of a potentiometer that wears out due to c…
Volvo S80 (1998-2006 / ) First disconnect the negative terminal of the battery located in the rear boot, under the mat, on the left rear side (you need to remove the upper fa…
Volvo S80 (1998-2006 / ) If problems with gear engagement arise after many miles, you should replace the oil in the gearbox. Lift the vehicle on a ramp. After loosening some …

Other guides you may be interested in

How to Check the Oil Level on a Jeep Renegade?

To check the oil level on a Jeep Renegade, you need to open the bonnet to access the components inside the engine bay: on the lower left side of the engine block, you will find the dipstick for checking the level. This should be pulled out and thoroughly cleaned with a cloth: once cleaned, reinsert it back into its tube and pull it out immediately after. This way, you can check that the oil mark is between the minimum and maximum levels; finally, you can place the dipstick back in its tube.

Watch the video!


by ScegliAuto

More videos