just purchased a 1996 850 glt today, on start up sometimes abs light stays on
and car has no speedo, turn signals or headlights but runs fine. shut car off restart, sometimes once sometimes 3,4 times no abs light, headlights, speedo, directionals all work fine. when everything works ok car does not exhibit any of the symptoms of the ill start ups. also noticed after driving car for awhile that when you come to a stop light sometimes car shudders like the trans is not down shifting into first gear. car has 6 mos warranty and is headed to volvo shop later in the week. just looking for helpful input. thanks rob

Sounds like ignition switch problem. Just go to alloemvolvoparts.com buy the switch for 46.00 and follow directions on volvospeed.com under bay 13. Or get it covered by your warranty :) Either way, it's an easy fix.

This sounds like a classic case of the ignition switch faulty. Try some switch cleaner, but you'll probably have to replace it. Check bay13 for full details on replacement.
Cheers

after researching a little farther, seems to be ignition switch. signed on this morning to check responses and seems you guys think the same. great to have support such as yourselves, seems to make all problems alot smaller.thanks for the help, rob.