1997 Volvo 850 GLt behind AC switch lights fliker on bumpy roads and console lights are out for gear changes. Need help, step by step directions on what tools are needed to effectively take these units out and change the light bulbs behind them. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.
Please email me at
volvo850glt97@gmail.com or here thanks.

 

That AC unit pulls out. Most people pull the ***** off, then pull the unit out with plyers. Others pull the radio out then push the back of it real hard. Be careful not to cut yourself, I can remember being warned and still cutting the back of my hand.

As for the center console lights, gear shifter bulb, etc.. You will have to pull the console part of the way out. The shift indicator bulb comes in a casing that is near impossible to change the bulb in so you will need to purchase that bulb/socket assembly.

 

Pull the radio and wear gloves when you go in behind the HVAC head. Wiggle it a little as you are pulling it towards you.

I just pulled mine to check it and had one out. There are three bulbs in my ECC head. The bulbs you can purchase anywhere (not dealer) are #2721 doesn't matter if its GE Sylvania Wagner or an off brand. I like using the Sylvania long life bulbs as I hope they really do last longer as it's usually a pain in the butt to get to most of the bulbs on most cars. They will run a buck or two more but hopefully you're getting value. The long life part number is: 2721LLBP It is a 1.2 watt, 0.1 amp 12volt bulb.

I did a couple bulbs in the console where I used a dremel to cut the little weld of the stock bulb to its holder and soldered in some radio shack bulbs #7219 in their place. If I have to replace more I'm not sure I'd go through the trouble but it does save about 5 bucks a bulb. Depends on how handy you are and how economical (cheap) you are!

Member RSPI has dash bulbs for sale https://volvoforums.com/forum/sale-t...ng-dash-52799/

 

Thanks guys I'll try that. The console I may leave it to the dlrshp. once in a great while I like to mosey over to Suburban Volvo Troy Mi and pay top dollar.

 

On mine, the light above the switch with the roundabout symbol will be on no matter which way it's switched, and the light above the snowflake (ac) switch won't come on at all.

 

There are several DIY posts on removing the dash and it is no big deal, just a time thing. It also gave me a chance to do some good cleaning and correct some of the rattles at the same time. If you do pull the dash, and you are in that 150 K range, consider replacing the odometer gears while you are in there.

 

What he said
My odometer bit the dust