96 960 (assume same remote) will no longer function. It does sometimes make a little clicking noise though. It will lock instead of unlock, or do nothing at all. I just always assumed it was the remote. How to get at the unit?

Have had same problem. If it were like mine it has to do with the contacts on the small circuit board of the transmitter. Mine were not making contact all the time. You can open it up and clean the contacts. Also check to make sure the printed circuit board is not cracked.

My V90 has 150K and my S90 has 100K and have had great service. Since the warranty lapsed, I have never had it in a Volvo dealer shop. Do all the upkeep myself. These cars are the best Volvo ever made. Since Ford got into the act, Volvo is not the same. You will get more MPG and a quieter engine is you use a synthetic oil.

I did the "remote dance" with my '98 S90 for a long time. Forgive me for being basic but I assume you have already tried reprogramming them and had no success. It was certainly nice of your dealer to give an immediate diagnosis without even seeing the car. My dealer checked everything and never came up with a solution. The remote annoyance was miniscule compared to the raft of other problems I had with the car, including dealer indifference, and that's why I always refer to it as my "ex-S90". I wish you good luck with yours. Sorry I couldn't have been more help.
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Roy Olson