1997 960 wagon--starting issues related to shifter and steering wheel lock

Hello We suffered the same issues. As you say, being intermittent, it is difficult to assess.

For us, the there were two issues that seemed intertwined. One was fixed with a $350 replacement of the shift indicator switch. I understand it is on the outside of the transmission and does not require pulling transmission.

The related issue involved another intermittent and variable nasty electronic interlock problem that prevented ignition and seemed to involve the emergency flashers and burgler alarm. After spending too many wasted hours in the shop, I wrote down the exact part numbers for a set of relays that measure about 2 by 2 by 1 (inches) that are mounted in a board behind the ash tray. At the junk yard, I found a Volvo about the same year having the exact part numbers, paid the guy $20 for the set of three, and that has been the end of the weird issues.

Our 1997 has 130,000 miles, uses no oil and is a pleasure to drive. Our only problem is that there is a seal in the steering rack that leaks. It seems replacements for this in-between model year aren't to be had. When the steering fluid is low, there is a roar that is heard while turning. I am keeping a bottle of steering fluid in the car with me these days but it would be nice to get that fixed.

Good luck.

I agree with the other poster who suggested the transmission selector position switch which is mounted on the right side of the transmission. It degrades internally and can cause difficulty starting and also cause the transmission warning light on the inst panel to flash (along with the lights in the W S E buttons. Sometimes, you may get some improvement by moving the shifter back and forth from Park to Low 20 times or so (with the engine off). This may clean the contacts in the switch enough the improve things. This is really only a temporary fix though and switch replacement is the real cure - and no, the transmission does not have to be removed for this. Removing and replacing the wire bundle to the switch is a pain with the transmission installed, but not a show stopper.

The problem could also simply be the alignment of this switch. If moving the shifter a little one direction or the other allows the starter to operate, then I would consider this. A Volvo tool is supposed to be used for this adjustment, but if you are adventurous, you could try it yourself. The job is a PITA since you have to disconnect transmission cooling lines, and perhaps even the exhaust system at the manifold.

glsvolvo wrote:

Many thanks for the respones. For the shifter work, to the dealer I will go, with checkbook in my hand, Hi Ho, Hi Ho. ;) GLS.