Hello,
While I was taking a short drive today all my warning lights suddenly illuminated. The car did not turn off or hiccup at all. Is this a sign the ignition switch might be on its way out? I did not jiggle the key because the idea did not hit me till after I was out of the car. It does start fine as well.

 

Possible charging system malfunction. I've not had it happen to me with my volvo but other makes will have the same symptom when the alternator is going out. If it occurs again, tap the alternator with a solid object and see if the lights went out, if so your brushes are worn in the alternator or without the engine running, key in the run podition, check the alternator pully for magnetism with a screw driver or wrench. If it isn't magnetized then you have charging system issues.

 

+1, Great info.

The car actually runs off of the battery. If the alternator fails, it will cause the dash Christmas tree effect letting you know that you are NOW running with the battery NOT charging. I had an alternator fail and drove about 6 miles home before the battery was to weak to keep all of the car's systems functional.

 

Thanks! Now that you say that I recall the charging system light was on when I first got in my car and did not think anything of it. I will check it out some more. Are they difficult to swap? Im sure I can find a good write up.

 

I actually just swapped out an alternator the other day. No it is not terribly difficult, just gotta move the power steering pump. RSPI actually made a really good video on how to switch it out. I, being stubborn, did not move the radiator hose when doing it, and it worked out just fine. The only trouble I has was when I dropped a bolt and didnt hear it hit the floor. After about 30 minutes of swearing, I found it....on the floor. Just search for RSPI alternator 850 on YT and you should find the video.
And if you do not have the tool for the tensioner, do what I did and move the computer box and use a crow bar which fits perfectly. :3

 

i watched his video! i might tackle that and the timing belt all at once