S-90 1998 Flashing Arrow under Tach

tbrinsonsr · Post by **tbrinsonsr** » 10 Feb 2009, 21:56

I read the posts on the PNP switch. I have a code reader for OBDII and there is no code in my computer. The light does not stay on all the time it comes and goes, and I don't think when it does come on that the car is stuck in third gear, most of the time when it comes on we're on the freeway and the RPM's don't dramaticly increase. Also when the arrow is flashing the selector lights flash between E and W.

Post by **billofdurham** » 11 Feb 2009, 12:35

Welcome to Matthew's Volvo Site.

Those lights do indicate that a fault has occurred in the gearbox and the Transmission Control Module (TCM) will have stored at least one fault code. Some of the generic code readers cannot read TCM fault codes.

Your transmission will not go to third gear if it goes into limp home mode. Rather it is stuck in 4th gear when in 'D' and in 3rd gear when in 'L'. To minimize transmission wear if you think you are in limp home mode you should start off in 'L'.

Apart from limp home mode there are 3 other emergency programmes your gearbox can adopt, depending on the type of fault recorded.

Programme 1: All gears can be selected but TCC lockup signal is not sent. High altitude compensation is disabled.

Programme 2: Similar to programme 1 but also has no reduction in line pressure when shifting from P or N to the drive gears. The engine torque reduction request is disabled.

Programme 3: Similar to the other two but also has no control of the pressure relief solenoid so maximum line pressure is maintained at all times.

If the control light has been flashing and has stopped there must be a fault code stored. To minimize the possibility of damage I suggest you try a different code reader or find an independent shop with good diagnostic equipment and ask them to check for codes.

Bill.

petershen1984 · Post by **petershen1984** » 11 Feb 2009, 22:44

Hi,

I have an older 960 with the ODB1 diagnostic pins. The PNP selector (gear position sensor) is just one of the symptoms that can trigger the flashing arrow.

If the signal is intermittent and you are sure you're not starting off in limp mode, it could be like the other indication I got from the blinking lights -- throttle position sensor faulty.

tompete · Post by **tompete** » 18 Mar 2009, 22:20

My 1997 S90 does the same, especially during 32degree weather. Summer has no effect. I replaced the module WES @ 120.00 & it still happens. My smog check 2 weeks ago (March 03) had 6 fault codes stored in computer. For last 4 smog checks I had to go to referee to get it passed. These few years of Volvo have problems and Cal now has made adjustments for Volvos and a few other makes of cars also. My wife has had to limp home twice but it clears itself and we go from there.