Newbie needs ignition help!

Jonnyt · Post by **Jonnyt** » 18 Jun 2006, 05:44

Hi all - need a bit of help if possible.

I have just bought a Volvo V70, 03 plate so just over three years old. Inevitably just out of the warranty period.

Started getting an intermittent problem with the ignition (having had a look around it seems I may not be the only one).

Anyway, basically, position 1 and 2 on the ignition switch, everything is perfect. Turn to position 3 and absolutely nothing. Seems to happen more often when the interior is warm but this maybe just coincidence.

It has now happened 3 times. The first time I got towed home. Went to go and look at it the next day and it started first time. I thought it might have been immobiliser blip because I used a different fob. Second time opened her up in the morning with the fob, key in, nothing happened on position 3. But wiggled the key a little bit and exerted a little more force than usual and she started. Third time just finished a long drive, emptied the car, cranked her over, but not long enough, went to crank again and nothing. Next day started after some coaxing.

I'm a bit old fashioned when it comes to cars so electronics are not my thing (see website!!), but doing the usual tests - earth straps to engine are fine, relays are fine - swapped glow plug relay for ignition relay and made no difference (on 3rd occassion). Deduce its not immobiliser because of the circs of occassions 2 and 3.

Therefore I conclude likely to be ignition switch, but with all the sensors I just don't know. All and any help would be great.

Thanks guys,

Jon

PS I know from our forum (www.cobraclub.com) that there is often scepticism about new members asking for advice - all I can say is that I am genuine and need help on this one - Thanks again.

Post by **billofdurham** » 18 Jun 2006, 15:32

In a recent chat with my tame Volvo technician (his description - I still think he is a mechanic) we discussed weaknesses on some Volvo models. Apparently the S & V70 are prone to ignition switch failure. Of those he and his colleagues have replaced your symptoms are the most common.

He has quizzed several owners and has come to the conclusion that damage is being caused by people having too many keys and other things on their keyrings, thereby putting undue downward pressure on the key in the ignition switch. Perhaps a previous owner did this!

Many years ago I was warned against this practice by a mechanic when I had a problem with the ignition on an Austin Cambridge.

Looks like you may have to change the ignition switch.

Bill.

Jonnyt · Post by **Jonnyt** » 19 Jun 2006, 03:33

Thanks Bill - I will save up for one!!

Any tips on replacing it? I have taken the cowling off to have a look at it and it seems quite straigthforward to access. Do you have to take the old barrel out or does that come with the new one?

Post by **billofdurham** » 19 Jun 2006, 12:14

I do not have a V70 but the 850 switch is easy to remove and I would assume that yours will be similar.

The cowling has to come off and then the wiper switch, which should be held on by 2 screws.

Disconnect the ignition switch wiring. Insert the ignition key and turn to position 1. You now need a 2.0mm diameter pin punch or similar (2mm twist drill is ideal) to depress the ignition switch locking tab through the hole in the housing above the switch. Withdraw the switch.

I think you will only get the electrical part as this is the bit that usually goes.

Bill.