New to the forum - I've found this to be a great repository for problem situations and suggested fixes.

Here's my problem which began this past winter... (thought it was temp related as problem occurred only on coldest days; this past week it's become an issue with each stop and start).

PROBLEM:
2000 C70 convertible - ALL lights, (headlights, directionals, side markers and brake lights) will not work upon engaging ignition. Will come on after 10-15 mins or so or idling or driving although the interval when they magically come on is getting longer with each stop and start. The power top cannot be operated either while this condition exists.

Scrolled through 9 pages of various "headlight issues" and thought one that suggested jiggling the key in the ignition would be my cure all, but alas, tried that a few minutes ago without luck.

The alternator was replaced last year as was the battery at the same time.

Any suggestions as to possible causes and fixes? Look forward to your replies...

 

There has to be an overload relay or something like that causing the issue.
Under the hood there is a fuse/relay box. In there is a positive cable check the connections there at the cable.

 

That's what my initial thought was, but nothing seemed to be amiss. Since none of the idiot/warning lights indicate a problem do you think running a "consumer" type diagnostic (Autoxray EZ Scan) would even produce a code to pinpoint the problem?

 

It is possible it might but not always.