Hi - I have a similar problem as another post. About 30% of the time when I start my car I need to push the shift lock release button near the shift handle to get out of park. I had this problem before I replaced a safety neutral switch and had not had the problem for about 1.5 years but now it's happening again.

Any thoughts? Marcia

PS: I'm new to fixing my own car and don't have anyone to help me so please respond on an elementary level. Thank you so very much.

Marcia there was a recall notice on the early 850's for the micro switch in the shift mechanism. The dealers would replace them at no charge. It might be worth it to stop by a Volvo dealer and see if the recall service was ever done on your car, chances are it wasn't.





Mike
'95 850T

Hi Mike, I just wanted to thank you for your reply. I'll give the microswitch a try with the dealer. Thank you. Marcia

Two most likely causes are the micro switch in the gear selector or the ignition contact plate. Next time it does it just wiggle the keys in the igniton a little bit and see what happens. If it fixes it you need to put in a new contact plate, if not you need to diagnose it further.

Mark

Hi Mark, Thank you for your reply and suggestion. I'll give your tip a try and follow up on the micro switch and/or the ignition contact plate. Thanks! Marcia

Have a 96 850 doing the same thing but the ABS light comes on as well plus the headlights don't work. Tracked it to the ignition switch as Mark suggests. After the engine starts, try turning the key back a bit as if you're going to shut it off and see if that works. FCPGroton sells the contact portion of the ignition switch (about $46. I think)

sB

Dear sB, Thank you for your reply and information. I'll look into this problem further now. Thank you. Marcia