Changing ignition plugs

93volvonurse · Post by **93volvonurse** » 15 Sep 2009, 11:57

I was told by another Volvo person that a good thing to keep changed is the ignition plug on the backside of the switch. Ok, I'm game....... However, I can't get to it. Yes, it only has two screws and yes, its just right there behind the key entry..... But I can't get my hands under the dash and past the metal steering column bracket to change it out. Help! Is there an easier way rather than taking the dash completely apart and removing the metal dash brackets and steering column? I have a 93 240DL. Should I just take it to the dealer?

DeRail · Post by **DeRail** » 17 Sep 2009, 22:28

The ignition switch may be what you're speaking of. I never had to replace mine until my SRS light started popping on intermittently. The switch is also responsible for other electronic accessories and usually it's only changed out if you're having a problem with electrical items going wonky, or if the key gets stuck in the start position (the switch contains the springback mechanism). It's definitely an item that will wear out over time, but it can be a real pain in the neck to change out on a 700 series with the ignition in the dash but it can still be done.

Does the 240 have an ignition on the steering column or is it on the dash? The 7/960 is very straightforward. Literally 3 screws on the underside of the wheel (one is hex I believe), the covers separate and then the switch itself is two screws and then you just pull the wiring harness off of it.

Let us know, because if it's on the column it should be very easy. Any way you could grab a picture of what you've got so far?

Thanks
-Darrell

93volvonurse · Post by **93volvonurse** » 19 Sep 2009, 18:36

I cant seem to find a pic of the part but its technically called "ignition switch" but its anything but a switch! It isn't the part of the switch the key fits into. It is a plug that is held in by two screws on the back side of the ignition switch where the key is inserted.
To discribe it..... its round and one side is flat with the small indentation. The other side has prongs in a circular pattern that plugs into the wiring harness of the ignitions electrical.
As far as the location, my ignition switch is in the dash and the ignition assembly is mounted to the steering colum behind all the metal dash brackets. Thus, making it impossible to get into without tearing out the dash completely. I don't want to get into it that deep since I am NOT a seasoned mechanic and the last Volvo I had got all its repairs at the dealer, I bought it new.
I was hoping, I had overlooked the obvious and there was an easier way! LOL I can't get behind the dash to get to the two screws to change out the ignition switch. Uhhhhhggggg. Very frustrating.

Mine is a 93 240DL.