When i started my car this morning to go to work, I did not have any instrument lights, the heater/ac panel, the console, and radio lights were not on (on the radio only the face was lite). Blinkers works, inside lights worked, etc. I get to work, turn off the car and then turn it on again, and all the above lights came on. Does anyone have an idea of what/why this happened. I know this sounds stupid, but could it be the battery.

It's not the battery. The next time that happens, try moving the dimmer switch and/or the headlight switch. Most often it is the dimmer switch.

Klaus
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Just driving a 1998 V70R :)

Replace the switch. Good instructions on volvospeed.com Bay 13. switch is about 50.00, 200.00 for an indep. mechanic.

Bet this would solve your problem.

the electronic ignition switch was replaced already a few months ago

Wiggle the key around a bit and see what happens. If the lights flicker then the switch is bad again. Was the new one from a Volvo dealer? If you have a buch of stuff hanging from the key ring it may aggrevate the problem.

I'll try that, this was a new one from and independant shop that I have been taking my car to for the last 6 years. When the ignition switch went bad last time, I had no headlights, no blinkers, no lights at all. I didn't think about looking at the instrument lights. Today, the blinkers and headlights did work. and of course I call there today and there is no answer at my indy shop, maybe their closed.

I'll try that, this was a new one from and independant shop that I have been taking my car to for the last 6 years. When the ignition switch went bad last time, I had no headlights, no blinkers, no lights at all. I didn't think about looking at the instrument lights. Today, the blinkers and headlights did work. and of course I call there today and there is no answer at my indy shop, maybe their closed.