Here's a mystery I need help solving - My headlights in my 850 wagon will not turn on unless I press really hard on the switch. In order for them to stay on I have to keep pressing. The minute I take my hand off the switch the lights turn off. Does anyone know what happens when you take the switch off the panel? I figure the problem lies somewhere in there but I don't want to end up with no lights at all. I also want to try to avoid taking it into the dealer because I don't want to get hosed. Any thoughts/suggestions out there?

Had the same problem on my 95. It was the switch. Cost about $45 at the local Volvo dealer. No problem at all to swap. Easier to take out the plates beside the switch to get at the switch itself. If you get the new one first you can see how it goes in. hope this helps. John

Went to the volvo dealer today and got my switch for 45 bucks, and now it's all set. Thanks to everyone for your input, it's been a great help.

Andrea

Id start with a new headlight switch. Carefully pull the covers beside the switch off, then you can pull the sitch it self out. First check to see that the harness is clipped in properly, if it is try a new switch.

Hope it helps.
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1993 854 - Hopefully the next million mile Volvo

Sounds like a bad switch. If you have the daytime running lights function switched off, try turning it on. To the lower left or right of the headlight switch you'll see what looks like a very small slotted screw. This is the switch to turn on the DRL function. Find a small screwdriver and turn it. If the lights come on you're probably ok.

It's just an idea but it might get you by until you replace the switch if that's what's failed.

FWIW I use the DRL this time of year as it's usually overcast or dark but in summer I turn them off and control the lights manually.

Good luck,
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Erwin in Memphis, '88 745t 190,000 miles, '95 855t 92,000 miles