240DL 1990 shift indicator light flashing constantly

v0lv0driver · Post by **v0lv0driver** » 16 Feb 2009, 14:45

I have a 1990 240 DL wagon, stick shift. My check engine light is on and at times the shift indicator light flashes constantly. When this is happening I notice a small loss of power and the car tends to buck and stall as I come to a complete stop. I have had the fuel filter changed, which helped with the stalling somewhat, but the problem remains. I am in Ohio, USA, in an area with no Volvo specialists, and no one seems to know what the problem is. Any help is appreciated. Thanks.

Post by **billofdurham** » 16 Feb 2009, 15:27

Welcome to Matthew's Volvo Site.

The Check Engine light indicates that at least one diagnostic trouble code (DTC) has been stored in the control module.

On this year of 240 there is an on-board diagnostic (OBD) unit in the engine compartment with which you can read DTCs.

To see how to do this read:https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... c&start=12

Check for DTCs and post back if you have any queries.

The shift indicator light is there only to tell you when to change gear. Usually they give no trouble but if the power supply has been interrupted, eg batterry disconnected, it has to be re-programmed as the control unit memory will be erased.

If this is the case then this is the solution:
Drive the car in each gear (first gear is not necessary) for approximately 8 seconds.
The gear change indicator light will flicker once (0.5 seconds), as each gear is programmed.
NB. Remove foot completely from the clutch pedal after each gear change when programming the control unit.

Bill.

v0lv0driver · Post by **v0lv0driver** » 18 Feb 2009, 13:57

Thanks, that information should get me started. I was wondering though, the other post you linked to concerns the 740. Would the codes be the same for the 240?

Post by **billofdurham** » 18 Feb 2009, 15:25

For the 1990 240 there are 4 additional codes:

2.2.2. Main relay - check the main relay
2.3.3. Idle valve (air leak) - check the intake manifold & the idle valve.
3.2.1. Cold start valve - check the cold start valve.
4.1.1. TPS signal absent or faulty - check the throttle position sensor.

If you should come up with anything else - post.

Bill.