I think my transmission problem (getting stuck in 1st gear when the engine is cold) may be due to a faulty PNP switch. Note that when I rapidly move the shift lever back and forth numerous times, it seems to relieve the problem temporarily. I have read the article on volvospeed.com/Bay13 about replacing it and it refers to an "alignment tool". Anyone know what this is and where it can be bought?

 

Yep.

I did a couple years ago. That was the exact problem I ran into too. Getting stuck when it's cold. But eventually, it wouldn't allow me to switch gears.

It's SO EASY!

The PNP switch is located under the airbox/battery area. Take the airbox and battery out (2 easy things to do) and you'll see it there.

Here's the tutorial (which you've found, but i'm linking for others)...

http://www.volvospeed.com/Repair/pnpswitch.php

You don't need an alignment tool... I did without and it's pretty easy to figure out how it goes in.

FCP sells the part for $85 for "ScanTech" or $165 for genuine Volvo. I think I went with the scantech one to try and save the money... and it's been great since then.

 

Many thanks! I hope it solves my problem. I ordered the ScanTech switch as well.

Regards

 

One question for TacklaNHL. Did you also experience that the car would sometimes only start from a standing position in a higher gear (3rd?). That happens to me and after I turn off the ignition and wait for a minute or two, it starts in 1st fine. Just trying to do my best to make sure it is the PNP switch.

 

Well, I didn't notice that... but I did notice something similar... it would be fine if I set it to winter-mode (which is the same thing... starts in 3rd gear).

With the PNP switch swap... you should be good to go.

 

TacklaNHL or anyone who has done this PNP switch replacement: Got the new switch and I am getting ready to tackle this job. TacklaNHL, can you give me a quick explanation of how you aligned the switch without the alignment tool? I have been looking at posts on this and one involves looking at the reverse lights going on and off, but I have no reverse lights (I think this could be related to the faulty PNP switch). Another post mentions a makeshift tool using washers and some steel plates, but I can't really understand the explanation. It doesn't sound like it should be a big deal, I just want to make sure I know how to do it before getting started.

Thanks to anyone who responds!!!

SJanas0993

 

I didn't use any tool. I just put it in as the old one came out. It was too easy.

 

OK. Thanks again!

 

Have you seen this post over at MVS?

http://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/for...hp?f=1&t=29930

It's actually split into two posts, and you'll want to focus on the second one. Maybe it'll help!

 

Hey, I believe my 98 V70 T5 is acting up with the same symptoms as previously mentioned.

I clicked the link, and I can't find the article on how to change this PNP Switch.

Any new links or information would be great if it's out there. I've only owned this car for 6 months, bought it with 196,000k, it's now got 204. It seems to be thinking it's in W or Winter Mode when it's actually on E - Economy.

Thanks!
Bucker