Mechanic replaced the crank sensor and it still happens, although infrequently. Last time, going about 60 mph, suddenly the car dies, the lights go off, I shift into N to start and NOTHING. I have to pull over, put it into P and then it restarts with no trouble. Before dying, the car does NOT cough or sputter. Car is 1995 Volvo 850 turbo, with 190K miles. Any ideas?

 

negative battery terminal loose?
corrosion on the terminals?

 

Connections are tight; terminals are clean...

 

Are you saying it looses all power? No headlights, dome lights...anything at all?

 

Yes, that's what appears to happen, but as I am coasting to the shoulder of the Interstate, I must confess I haven't tried the dome lights. I notice the dash and headlights go out, but the flashers do work. When I shift to neutral and turn the key, absolutely nothing happens -- it is dead. Once stopped, in Park, the engine immediately turns over and starts.

 

got to have something to do with wiring. have you checked your codes?

 

no, I have not. Going back to the mechanic later today -- he finally seems interested. I'll let you know....

 

mechanic checked and cleaned all battery connections -- thinks the positive terminal MIGHT have had a loose wire. We can only drive it and see what happens........If that's not it, next fix will be to replace the ignition switch. It's been loose for about 8 years, but this has acted as anti-theft protection, since you cannot get the car in gear without turning the key back toward you a bit........

 

Either the ignition switch is failing (very common) or the small bundle of wires attached to the top of the + terminal is loose/ corroded- take that off, clean it, and put vaseline or terminal protector on it.