Hey All,

New to the forums. Glad to be a part of the community.

So, I realize this issue has been discussed before, but there seems to be a lot of differing answers, so I felt like asking about my issue specifically.

I have a 1996 960 which has a orange flashing arrow, check engine light and the speedometer usually cuts out. In addition, the gear shifting seems to be erratic, and sometimes there is very little power because its stuck in a high gear, or revs too high because its downshifts.

I have read that its potentially the PNP switch, the speed sensor, the trans computer and the instrument cluster (was told by guy at shop who scammed me out of $450) . Wondering what to do before I go buy parts. Thanks a bunch guys,

Craig

 

Have you had the code read? Should be a stored code on this, it most likely will be a volvo specific one, but you should be able to get the information you will need to move forward.

Don't throw parts at this, start simple and work your way to the more complicated. Start by inspecting and cleaning the speed sensor connector in the rear differential. Could be as simple as that.
Next time it does it, try this, with ignition on, engine off, foot firmly on brake pedal, row the gear selector back and forth, about 20-30 times. Place in park and start the engine, see if the flashing light goes out.

If that does cure the light and the weird shifting, then a pnp switch is most likely the culprit.

DanR '94 964 394,000 miles (160,000 on the new engine)
'08 S60 T5 84,000 miles

 

danr960 : thanks a bunch for the info. I will test tomrrow AM and post updates. Really appreciate the help.