Lately when I start my car, there is often no power to the headlights, power windows, seatbelt reminder light, power sunroof and turning signals. Also, the transmission will not engage unless I use the shift-lock override button. At the same time, however, the parking lights, power mirrors, radio, and hazard flashers all work. When this occurs, if I push the shift-lock override button, engage the transmission and start driving, then within 15-20 minutes everything starts to work again (I am alerted to this by the seatbelt warning light flashing on temporarily and then going out). Once things start to work, they don't stop working again while I am driving. If I turn the car off, the problem may or may not repeat itself the next time I start the car, but sooner or later (usually sooner) it happens again. Can anybody tell me what is causing this?

Tom is an very experienced 960 owner and is 100% correct. He helped me with numerous problems I had with my 960. My 1993 960 had similar power related problems as your '95. On my 960 with the ignition in the run position, the SRS light would stay lit and there was no power to the radio and other accessories. Once I replaced the ignition switch(electrical portion) the problem went away. The switch was easy to replace and is held on by a couple of screws. Good luck with your 960.
John

Your ignition switch is bad. Just the switch portion, behind the keylock. The part is $26 and it takes 10 minutes to change.

The shiftlock thing *COULD* be part of the same issue, but most likely is separate, to do with the microswitch on the console. Again, not a big deal.

Set a cap on this car for what you are willing to spend.

I just got rid of a 95 960 after 2.5 years of ownership. I sold it for scrap value, with 2.5 years still on the car loan. Why?.........

In 2.5 years, the engine blew up 3 times, the head twice, the block once. As a former Volvo technician and active BB'er, I did ALL my own work. The parts alone cost me $11,000.

Some will say I bought a used car lemon. There was evidence of prior failure on the PO's watch. Taking out the engine failure for a moment.... this car is a MONEY PIT!! The problems you describe are perhaps the least expensive repairs you will ever make on that car.

Be VERY careful. Set a budget. AND DITCH THAT CAR AS SOON AS YOU GO OVER THE BUDGET FOR KEEPING IT ALIVE.