Volvo ignition problems

I'm guessing that your GearTronic function (the 'manual' mode) isn't working, nor is the Winter mode working (starting in 2nd or 3rd gear).

The gear selector module under the shifter is most likely the culprit, but using VIDA/DiCE (the Volvo car/computer interface) will tell you more. A local Volvo shop or dealer will have that.
I'm not sure if they're coded to the car, or if you can snag one cheaply from the junkyard from a similar year car and swap them..?!

I'd try disconnecting the battery for an hour first. Turn off the ignition, LEAVE THE CAR ALONE FOR 15 MINUTES and then disconnect the NEGATIVE battery post for 30 minutes.

When you connect the battery again, make sure you FIRST turn the ignition to position II - ignition on. Connect the cable, then turn off the ignition.

It might resolve a temporary problem, or the issue comes back, but at least you know it wasn't something really simple.

If the ignition turns to the #1 position and back to the lock position, and you can get the key in and out of the lock with no problem, you will have to get the ignition lock replaced. You will have to order it from the dealer. You will need the VIN and proof that you are the registered owner of the car.

1. turn ignition to I
2. depress and hold trip button
3. turn ignition to II(while still holding trip button)
4. in about 5-7 seconds warning light(yellow triangle) begins to flash
5. release trip button WHEN yellow triangle is flashing(it flashes 5 times, if you wait for it to stop flashing, it will NOT reset), turn ignition off

dead battery or loose or corroded battery cables.ignition fuse or ignition switch faulty or it could have a loose wire.

1. Turn the igntion to position I
2. Press and Hold the Trip Odometer Reset Button
3. Turn the ignition to position II and hold until the triangle with the ! mark inside flashes (yellow)
4. Turn ignition off, then back on to confirm reset accepted.

Hello, We had the same problem about a year ago: 1996 Volvo 850 20V 2.5 L. We turned the ignition switch several times, and all the gauges was came back. I think the ignition switch cause the problem. We haven't had this problem since than.

Pay the dealer the $300.00. I have been told it's worth it to have an extra set due to the computer communication of the keys with the ignition (not sure how it works exactly.) To re-key or get a new ignition costs like 1600-1800 dollars and takes approximately 10 days to even get the parts. I checked with a Volvo dealership in WA State. I am having problems with my ignition now and the keys won't come out or turn the last little click to be able to pull them out (but not all the time), also my car will turn on no problem (only have trouble getting keys out) my car just won'y go into gear, it seems it happens more frequently when it is below 55 degrees, even after the car temp guage has reached the half way mark. I have a 1999 Volvo S80 (I hate that car!)

I haven't tried this on my Volvo, but found it on a forum by googling "volvo turn off daytime running lights" (without the quotes.


Try the following sequence:

Turn the headlight switch to the middle position "parking light".
Turn the ignition key in position II.
Pull the turn signal lever towards you and hold it while turning the headlight switch to position 0.

TURN ON IGNITION LEAVE PARKED UP FOR ABOUT 1 HOUR WITH IGNITION STILL ON IT WILL THEN CLEAR AND COME UP CODE,THEN ENTER CODE