We are having issues with the gear shift in our 2002 S40. The gear shift doesn't lock in park, and now it's getting to be difficult to remove the key form the ignition. There is also play in the housing behind the steering wheel -- it moves a bit clockwise and counter clockwise and the directional signal and wiper controls move with it. All advice appreciated!

 

For the gear shift there is a safety switch in the housing that gets dirty, sticky from drinks, etc that prevents the key from being removed because the car "thinks" it's still in gear. Take the gear shift cover off and spray the switch with a silicone lube.

For the steering wheel I'd get up under the dash and see if the bolts holding the column are tight. The column is fairly simple and straight forward.

 

Thanks Hudini! Can you describe to me the process of taking off the gear shift cover and describe the location of the switch? (Sorry -- total novice here). DH Spilled a cup of coffee about a year ago. The cigarette lighter no longer works, so will not be surprised to find the problem as you have described!

 

Under the radio there is a rubber pad that simply lifts out. (It could be stuck from the same sticky stuff.) Under you'll find, IIRC, 2 screws that hold the front of the shifter console. Then inside the elbow rest compartment at the bottom is another 2 screws. Move the shift lever down to low and set the parking brake and I believe the shifter housing will slide out of the way enough to access the parts. Don't force anything though. It's been awhile since I removed mine. I've replaced the light once and lubed the switch twice so far.