So this is actually in response to a post I came across from Aug 2002. I have had some weird electrical problems with my '84 240 Turbo wagon, the most recent being that the brake lights don't come on at all and the warning beeper goes off when I depress the brake pedal.

In reading through past posts it seems like the culprit is probably the brake light switch, having ruled out the most basic things like fuses and bulbs. That being said there have been other issues that come and go.

First of all it started a little while back when my volts gauge kept running low but would pop back up when I flicked my blinker. My mechanic said it was just the gauge and then it died at a stop light and it turned out to be the crappy storebrand alternator I'd put in months earlier.

After the new alternator it hasn't died again but the volts gauge still does weird stuff. When I put the blinker on the gauge flicks and then sometimes goes all the way down and the warning light on the dash comes on. Ok so that's problem 2.

Lastly there have been times on the freeway when my overdrive will not kick on. I have a 4 speed manual w/ OD. I guess it's a good thing the traffic on the 10W rarely calls for 5th gear.

I realize this is a long post but I'm wondering if there is some sort of pattern or if my car is at the age when a lot of those switches and relays start to go. Any suggestions or ideas would be most appreciated.

On a side note:
Am I the only one that gets that warm fuzzy feeling when you see your exact Volvo model and color drive past or stop beside you at a stoplight? The other day I was stopped at a light and looked over and saw a cute girl in my exact car. I was actually embarrassed since hers was in better shape. I wanted to get her to pull over and ask her out but figured my girlfriend wouldn't understand. At least I knew she had good taste.

Kris
(1984 Volvo 245 turbo wagon - 162,000)