Wierd ignition key start problem

blue_v70 · Post by **blue_v70** » 04 Jun 2007, 05:47

Ok, I bought this 95 850 SE finally, this car is absolutely nice to drive, smooth, leathers are still in good condition, but just 1 wierd problem. Its nothing big (I hope) but here it is...

When I turn the key and start the car, the ABS warning light comes ON first I thought it is the abs fault but then I realize that the indicators are not working, then the head light is not working, then I realize too that the ticking seat belt sign is not blinking too.

I called the guy who sold the car and he told me to turn the key gently and when advise me to turn/wiggle the key a little bit to the left when the car starts gently until I hear the ticking sound of seatbelt warning indicator then it works, the ABS warning light comes off, everything works like magic.

Then I have another problem, when I drive the car, the engine temperature gauge doesnt work and the needle always pointing down.

Took the car to an auto electrician, told them and showed them what the problem is and they tried to lubricate the inner part but cant do much other then giving me an expensive option to replace the whole damn thing. I am thinking of leaving it as it is as I am getting used to play with the ignition key with my fingers after I start the engine. But would it be another problem in the future?

Oh yea, sometime although after I turn/wiggle the key a bit to the left to get rid of that ABS warning light, the other warning lights comes on, sometime the transmission warning light blinks too.

Any suggestion guys?

Just wanna add...I did some search on the previous forum and found similar problem relating to the ignition switch, is this the same problem?

And if it is the same problem, what parts of the ignition switch is the problem? Can it be fixed or should I replace it? Anyone knows any online part dealer for that particular part as Australian stocks are sometime more expensive.

Thanks in advance

Post by **JRL** » 04 Jun 2007, 06:54

Replace the ignition switch, known wear fault (Not expensive)

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 04 Jun 2007, 06:59

Sounds like the electrical portion of the ignition switch for sure. FCP Groton has them for US $51.00. They ship internationally all the time.

As far as the temp gauge goes, Check the Engine Coolant Temp sensor. If it is not working it can screw up a bunch of things. I'm surprised that your Check Engine Light (or Lambda light, I'm not sure which they use in Australia) isn't on. Does it come on when you put the key to position I?

...Lee

blue_v70 · Post by **blue_v70** » 04 Jun 2007, 22:54

Thanks guys, the check engine light is lit when key is turned to ignition position then when the car starts, those bunch of warning lights come off except the abs light then I have to wiggle it to the left a bit.

The temp gauge worked this morning when i started the car, on the way to work, the needle droped a little bit but still pointing about 1/4 of the gauge.

And how do I purchase this ignition switch from FCP groton, any website?

I checked the coolant level too, it is on max I also did consult this to the seller he said the car just went for major service and they toped up the coolant.

Where is this coolant temperature sensor?

Thanks again

kevn · Post by **kevn** » 30 Sep 2010, 23:18

I have the same problem, intermittent but happening more often. Is the new ignition switch a key replacement as well? Thanks all.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 01 Oct 2010, 19:52

The key portion on the 70 series is a real bearcat and unless the key is jammed or it turns over without stopping don't change that part of the system.. Just change the electrical portion which is screwed onto the back of the ignition key mechanism.

...Lee

kevn · Post by **kevn** » 02 Oct 2010, 01:49

I guess same deal for 850 regards the screw-on electrical switch? Is this switch replacement a tricky job? Can it done by a handy type? Thanks again..

Post by **jblackburn** » 02 Oct 2010, 06:35

I guess same deal for 850 regards the screw-on electrical switch? Is this switch replacement a tricky job? Can it done by a handy type? Thanks again..

The electrical portion of the switch is a snap, literally takes about 15 minutes from start to finish.

The -70's are even easier, the screws on the bottom are much easier to get to!

Post by **Pauloil** » 02 Oct 2010, 12:32

http://volvospeed.com/Repair/ignit_switch.php
i have one in my garage that isn't as bad as yours: my wife just saw a bunch of funny things all at once one time so I just replaced it and she hasn't had probs since...you can have it for postage.