Why does a new ABS control unit require a Software update?

[Vol_Sun]

I recently purchased a used 2002 v70xc. Today I was at pick and pull to find some back up parts. I called a shop called volpar, Volvo specialists, and the woman I spoke with stated that if I need to replace a part, such as the ABS CONTROL MODULE or ELECTRONTIC THROTTLE MODULE (ETM) that I would need a software update. When looking at these parts, by that I mean literally taken them apart, I did not identify anything that resembled a computer. So I'm a little stumped here, I understand there is a computer in the vehicle and know where it is located. How does the software update effect these parts? Are there part specific updates or is it just an overall vehicle software update? Does the software update have a significant effect on performance? Would my vehicle require a software update even if I was to take identical parts (with matching numbers) from another 2002 v70xc?

Help!

[Willy]

My guess is that, if the ABS unit is connected to the Canbus, a new member in the network
has to be introduced before it can be recognized by the network protocol.
Willy

[JRL]

ANY and ALL parts that are new and electric needs either software or at least a configured to the car after 2001.
Used parts do not

[Vol_Sun]

Just to be sure, if I buy a used ABS control module and ETM from a 2002 V70 XC AWD Turbo and put it in my 2002 V70 XC AWD Turbo I will not need a software update?

I'm driving 2 hours to pick up those parts right now.

[hoonk]

A bosch throttle module for a 2002 does not require a software download to make it work, new or used. Volvo does offer one but I have put several on without software being needed. They rarely go bad - why are you replacing yours?

New Abs modules (for 2002? and up) always require a software download. Once software is installed (coded to your VIN) it can't be changed to another car using Volvo factory equipment, however aftermarket sources sell some preprogrammed modules - see Xemodex.com as an example.

I have no knowledge if a used ABS control unit would work in your car - wiser minds on this board might be able to answer that.

Same question with the ABS control module, why do you want to replace it?

[Vol_Sun]

ETM is being replaced because of, "P2131 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch "F" Circuit Range/Performance".

ABS control module because:
P0504 - Brake Switch "A" "B" Correlation
P0571 - Brake Switch "A" Circuit

We picked up a brake pedal position sensor from the junkyard, tested it with an ohm meter and it appeared to work fine. We also got the plug and wires for it so we could easily test the installed position sensor. We also swapped the sensor and it made no difference. We tested the brake light switch with an ohm meter and it works fine, as do the break lights.

Also the red "BRAKE", yellow "ABS", "CHECK ENGINE", STC/DSTC triangle and the exclamation triangle warning lamp in the center of the instrument panel are on. The trip indicator is also malfunctioning. It's all dashes.

I have also been reading all about Vida and what is involved with getting it installed and running so I might update the software if necessary. Looks like the device is about $100, a 3 day subscription is $140, and the software update is about $15. If I can find a shop that can update the software for cheaper than $250, that might be a better option. But I was hoping that going with identical parts from an identical car would allow me to skip that whole process.

[Vol_Sun]

For the record, and for anyone else in my situation, neither the ABS module, nor the throttle body on a 2002 V70 XC Turbo require a software update if obtained from an identical vehicle.

Also, replacing the ABS module and throttle body fixed all the problems listed previously as the reasons for replacing these two parts.

[kutcht1]

Perfect follow-up. This will surely help others down the road.
TomK