So I have a 2005 S60 with just under 200K on it and user it primarily as my summer spare and full-time winter car. I've just started to see Transmission Needs Service on the display. When it's really cold here in NH at startup I can hear what sound like a ratcheting/stepping noise from the transmission and the gear display on the dash goes blank. Usually shutting off the car and restarting "fixes" this but some times it stays in "limp home" mode (feels like W-Winter mode is active).

I also am a little too old to get into wrenching on the transmission myself, but had a few question that I hope someone can answer before i take it to a trusted shop nearby (yes you can supply your own parts).,

According to IPD's site the transmission is an AW55-5X AWD 5 speed automatic. I assumed it was well past time for a fluid change but am unsure as to the transmission filter part # - if there is one. I don't need a Volvo original (unless that's the only one available), but I'm seeing parts for AW55-50SN - assuming it's not the same. So does mine actually have a replaceable filter and if so, any idea where to locate one?

I'm also thinking that that ratcheting noise seems most likely to be the Automatic Transmission S1 control solenoid (so says FCPEURO) but IPD says it's a type S2. Does anyone know which is correct or if there's a different type i should be looking for?

Thanks!

 

There is no filter. (and when changing the fluid - only use the specified fluid, you may regret using something off the auto parts shelf that is "compatible")
For your noise - I've not heard solenoids make noise in the thousands of those trans that have come thru my shop. With those transmissions it is not unusual to have valve body problems (and certainly other problems with 200k)

If you think a solenoid is making your elusive noise - A compatible scan tool can activate them for you to test your theory. You would also be able to check the status of various trans components (and check codes) to help diagnose your blank shift readout when cold problem. You will also probably need that scan tool to reset the trans service message.

 

thanks for the info! I'll ask them to scan the transmission control.