1996 850 Wagon starting problem

alangiles · Post by **alangiles** » 26 May 2010, 06:29

I have what to me is a very strange problem! When I turn the ignition the engine starts but the ABS warning light remains on and I find I cannot engage the automatic unless I press the shiftlock override button. The indicators and the main but not the running lights do not work and if I do move off the speedometer and rev counter are inactive. Usually if I stop the engine and turn on again the problem disappears but occasionally I might have to do this a couple of times before it returns to normal. Very occasionally, usually when the car is very warm, it is more resistant and I get the impression it resolves when the car cools down. Has anybody got any idea what I am dealing with? Thanks in anticipation.
Alan

Post by **jblackburn** » 26 May 2010, 10:01

It does sound like the ignition switch to me - twitch your key back ever so slightly after you start the engine and see if everything works. Mine used to act up in extreme cold/heat before I changed it.

alangiles · Post by **alangiles** » 27 May 2010, 13:33

Guys thanks. You are right. Turning the key back very slightly brings everything to life and the ABS warning light goes out so I guess I need to change the ignition switch. Cheers
Alan

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 27 May 2010, 23:21

A very easy fix. It is detailed in the repair database and the part is - in the Volvo world - relatively cheap.

...Lee