We just purchased a used 1993 Volvo 850 GLT recently from a friend who brought it brand new. It was in the storage most of the time and has only 60,000 km on it. Recently, when I started my car in the morning with the outdoor temperature at around 5 Celcius, the dreaded flashing arrow light comes on on the dashboard and the car seems to be hardly move at all. When the outdoor temperature is milder, say around 9 Celcius, the problem seems disappear. I believe Volvo is designed for cold weather, is is a bit disappointed. I am not confidet ad feel safe to drive this "safe" car now. I found out from the web sites and realised that it could be the PNP switch most of the 850 owners have experienced. The detailed information in VOLVOSPEED site is very helpful, but I like to have a professional to do it for me. We live in Vancouver, BC in Canada. Would someone able to let me know:
1. Would it be most likely the PNP switch problem?
2. Can it be fixed without replacing it?
3. If it is such a well known problem, then did Volvo ever modify the switch in the later years? If so, if I have to replace it, a brand new part from the dealer would correct it and would last for several years? If a used unit can be found, which year would be the best?
4. A reasonable good or reliable dealer or service shop in Vancouver area?
5. Anthing to do with no enought warm up in the morning? I normally idle it for 5 minutes or so before put it into drive.
Thanks.