Ouch, I can imagine a team of Volvo programmers sweating somewhere right now; Volvo issued a recall 17,614 MY 2008-2009 XC70, V70 and S80 vehicles in the states this week. The reason for the recall is a potential software glitch due to a programming error in the fan control module, something that – if left unfixed – could cause major issues like overheating and actual engine failure as well as annoyances like poor air conditioning perfomance.

The NHTSA posting states that dealers will replace the fan control free of charge and that the recall is expected to begin during july 2009.

If you’re a concerned owner you can contact Volvo customer care center directly at 1-800-458-1552.

If you’re in Sweden (with your Volvo) during the STCC City Race in Gothenburg July 5th to 8th you could spend 5900 to 8900 SEK ($750 to $1100 USD) depending on model and have Volvo’s racing team Polestar Racing upgrade the software in your car to sharpen its performance while not voiding any factory warranties (and still being street legal, of course).

These model-specific software modifications (dubbed Polestar Performance) are designed to boost the engine’s performance while not making it more fuel thirsty or less friendly to the environment during regular driving. Polestar promises 22 to 58 extra hp depending on model and make, for example, the Volvo V270 2.5 Flexifuel goes from 200 to 258hp and torque from 300 to 360 newtonmeter.