starting problems
 

i have a 2001 c70 that has an intermittent starting problem. sometimes it starts then stops immediately then will not start at all. after 5 or 6 attempts it will start.i have changed the fuel filter and air filter and the air flow meter is clean and looks ok.fuel economy is ok too. the revs do go up and down when it is first started.anyone have any ideas please

The starting then cutting out and subsequently refusing to start is down to the immobiliser aerial connection making a poor contact, you can try disconnecting it (it is a round plastic collar surrounding the ignition barrel where the key inserts) then clean the contacts and pop it back together or a replacement is about £40.

The idle speed wandering about could be a number things but I would start by removing the Electronic Throttle Motor (ETM) from under the inlet manifold and cleaning the air inlet tract and butterfly valve out. Any carbon build up can affect the operation of the ETM leading to surging idle issues, total failure of the ETM is best diagnosed from using a code reader to see what is going on but as you don't have the ETS caption lit on the dash I doubt it is more than needing a clean - Mike

as above but what engine is in it

I'll bet anything that it is the 2.4t...

I'll drink beer through my own sock if it isnt.

Just in case, check this: http://www.volvoforums.org.uk/showthread.php?t=184532