My wifes 98 V70 AWD has been doing the "headlight switch thing" where the headlights go out in the "2" position. I read that this has been a problem with the 97-98 model year and there was a recall. ( Yeah, thanks for that notice Volvo. )

Let's suppose that this is a recall that applies to my car but since I'm out of the warranty period I have to pay for the parts and labor. Well, labor I think I can do myself. Here's my questions:

1. Are recalls free even after warranty periods are up?
2. Does anybody know the price of the headlight switch? (in case #1 isn't true)
3. How do I remove the defective switch?

Thanks in advance,

-Chris

Removal is easy - it's a friction-fit assembly. Remove the knob, then use pliers and pull the switch out by the center shaft. If re-using the switch, don't oversqueeze or you'll gouge the shaft.

If there was a recall (and I'm not aware of one for the switch) go to a Volvo dealer. They'll scan your VIN and find out what's been done, and what's still owed you.

Supposedly mine had been replaced, but when I didn't have headlights, fighting with them wasn't worth it, so I had to pay for it myself. $40. They installed it for free, but the pull and tug method might mar your hole. When installing my boost gauge, I had to access one of the wires, so I didn't want to just pull it out. There are 2 spring type clips that snap into place when it is in the dash. The only way to reach them to squeeze them in is to remove the bottom dash panel and reach up behind.

That method of removal seems much less destructive (sorry Bob). This sounds more like me. If they won't fix it for free then $40 won't kill me.

-Chris

Recalls are forever. If the car is 20 years old and a recall has not been done, the dealer must complete the repairs, at no cost to you. You can contact a dealer and ask them to check recall history, or contact N.H.T.S.B. Headlight switch I think is about 40-50USD. It pulls out from the front. Easiest way is to pry offthe knob with a small screwdriver then grab the shaft with pliers and pull it out. It will probably come out in 2 pieces. The retainer clips for the back of the switch break, and the innards lose contact, hence the problem.

Right! Thanks!

-Chris