I am new to the forum but have owned my Volvo 2002 S60 for 6 years now, 172,000 miles. So far it has treated me right, but now it seems that random things aregoing wrong.
I have searched this forum as well as others and tried the suggestions but they haven't worked for my problem. The most recent problem deals with the dashboard. The dashboard lights will come on when starting the car (99% of the time) but at some point they turn offwhen driving. The entire panel goes black. They may or may not come back on and it seems random, meaning it doesn't matter if I am braking or pulling out. I have taken out the dimmer switch and cleaned it but that did not help. I have also cleaned the wiring harness under the driver seat, however I did not disconnect and clean each individual wire. The fuse has been changed butthe dash still blacks out. My travel tachometer sometimes resets but you can see the odometer mileage if you shine a flashlight on the panel. I don't think the bulbs are bad because the lights are bright not dull.
At this point I have no idea and need some help. I don't want to take it to the local dealership because they charge $92.00 hour just to look at it to determine what "May" be the problem.
Carey

 

I have the same problem with my 2002 S60 T5. I have 87,000 miles on it.

 

There is a nice set of instructions for removing the instrument panel on the IDP website. (Look for the chrome gauge rings.) It's not very hard to remove and you may find a dirty or loose electrical connection on the main (and only)dash plug. Hope this helps...

 

Sounds like u have a network problem.. Have to hook up with dealer specific diagnostic computer to see what fault code stored in system and diagnose base on that.. Also wondering if any other function inside the interior of the car not working.... Like power seats, climate control, windows, power mirror etc....

 

This is the only electrical problem. All other functions work fine in the car.

 

It is possible that the Driver Information Module has gone. The only certain way to check is with the dealer diagnostic equipment.

 

You may try replacing the dimmer switch it self.. THese switches are known to eventually fail. Had one do it to me once...not on my volvo but a diffrent vehicle. New switch and it worked perfectly. This would be your cheapest option, especially if you do it yourself which wont be too much work. the part last time i put one in for a customer was about $42 after markup.