Lock-up Solenoid

[talulahb11]

I recently bought a used 1998 S70 and the day after I bought it, the check engine light came on, and the overdrive arrow (as well as E and W) were flashing. I took the car to the Volvo dealer and they told me the codes meant I needed a new lock up solenoid but it really meant I needed a new tranny altogether.

I've spoken to a couple sources and keep getting different info. Do I really need a new tranny? Also, the Volvo dealer wanted to charge me over $1200 for the solenoid alone but other people are telling me that they can do it for under $500. Approximately how long should this job take (I realize it's complicated b/c you have to drop the tranny) and does it mean I really need a new tranny?

[rush]

got same problem right now and pretty sure its only a PNP switch thats needs to be replaced. my arrow was also flashing but after i cleaned the battery terminals and reconnected them it seems to go away... i'm gonig to do PNP switch this weekend ill let you know.

[White850Turbo]

I'd suggest getting your codes read at Autozone or some place like that to confirm that there is a problem with the solenoid, as it is not very common for them to fail. Let us know and then I can give you a guide on how to replace them.

[MadeInJapan]

With ignition off and, move the gear shift from P to L very quickly 20 or so times...sometimes this in itself will clean the contacts enough to make things smoother.