My '98 V70 base model with automatic (200K miles) has been having trouble shifting out of first for the last couple of months. This occurs when it's cold, but after a few minutes, it works normally. (Oddly, even when it's warmed up, when I shut the car off for a few minutes, like to run inside a store, it takes a few minutes to begin shifting normally when I start it again).

Mechanic told me the transmission mode switch was throwing a code, but that was the only code showing.

I unplugged the transmission mode switch, this did not solve the shifting problem.

I did a full fluid flush (first one done on this car, caused no problems) but this did not solve the shifting problem. Fluid level is "full".

I replaced the PNP switch, but this did not solve the shifting problem.

At this point, I'm thinking it's either the transmission mode switch or maybe a sticky solenoid. Don't have JY access, and would prefer not to pay Mother Volvo $95 for a mode switch. Thinking maybe it's a good time to take it to a tranny shop to get it checked out.

Any ideas?

Schwied