98 V70 no headlights; trans locked

steve3007 · Post by **steve3007** » 20 Jan 2006, 14:17

I just had a Volvo dealer replace my headlight switch on a warranty recall (which was working fine BTW). Since the replacement, I have encountered an intermittent problem that may be related or just coincidence.

When I first turn on the headlights (vehicle may be in my heated garage or outside in Seattle area at perhaps 40F), nothing happens. Interior & dash lights work fine but in the ON position, no headlights. After a few minutes and a few turns back a forth, they eventually work as normal. The time it takes to get them working varies (up to a couple of minutes) but once the vehicle is warm, they seem to stay working ok. I haven't encountered them failing once on.

What however is puzzling is that while the lights are not working, my transmission is locked and I need to push the lockout button to get it into gear. I am assuming the ECU is sensing the lights are not working and locks the trany.

Is there a headlamp relay that may be flakey or is it likely just a bad switch? I'm wondering how the ECU knows the headlights are out.

Post by **matthew1** » 20 Jan 2006, 19:18

Sounds like the ignition switch. Next time it happens jiggle the switch to see if it has an effect.

steve3007 · Post by **steve3007** » 20 Jan 2006, 21:10

I'm inclined to agree it's the switch.

Now my daytime headlights won't turn on at all (low beams still work when headlight switch is urned to ON). I just found my 850 manual and the circuit looks very similar to the V70. I don't think this can be the main headlight relay.

Back to the dealer to get my old switch back I guess.......