'92 960 - Ride Mode / Winter Sport Econ switch flashing

[LaceSpades]

Hi all,

I was sorting out a carpet replacement in my 1992 960 and found my drive switch was disconnected with just the cable hanging there. I plugged this back in during reassembly and found the indication lights were cycling through W->S->E.

After driving it it no flashes between W and either S or E depending on what was selected. Is this normal or and indication of a problem with the switch/box. It seems to be shifting fine but I lack a frame of reference to be sure. There is no light on the dashboard to accompany this issue.

I've up'd a video of it doing it, any info on this? I tried to look it up but might have the wrong terms.

+ YouTube Video

[Belal960]

it seems there is a problem

may be switch nead replacement common fault.

definitely need a diagnosis.

[LaceSpades]

I could pull the switch to bench test it if there are any docs on how it's supposed to behave? Not sure where to begin with figuring the issue out

[Forrest]

A 1992 car may have the OBD-I black A and B diagnostic boxes under the bonnet. You should be able to use this to read the error codes. Box A position 1.

https://www.volvoclub.org.uk/faq/Tra...cTransmissions

3-1-3 would indicate a very common problem with the PNP switch which on these transmissions is on the gearbox rather than the selector. Likely to be a bit of a pain to replace because of the exhaust and cooler line being in the way. I think the Volvo p/n is 9466013.

There would normally be a flashing orange arrow on the dash as well. If the switch was disconnected then it’s quite likely that bulb has been removed as well. Possibly a previous owner or dodgy dealer trying to hide the fault.

[LaceSpades]

Heya, cheers for getting back to me

Here are my dash lights in position 2.


Here's how I used the DLC in case any mistake has been made here:


Here are the codes in the order I received them:
2-2-2
3-1-3
3-2-3
1-1-3
3-1-1

Should I try to clear the codes and see what comes back?

[Forrest]

I think what I would try first would be to reset the codes and with the engine off and the brakes applied and then row the selector through all the positions a few times to stir up the dried grease in the PNP switch and clean its contacts. Then see what errors come back in normal use.

The PNP switch tells the transmission control module what is selected so actually does a bit more than just tell the engine if Park or Neutral is engaged. It may be confusing the TCM and leading to other errors.

The up arrow dash light is next to the seatbelt warning light. It doesn’t come on with the ignition but it should light if you select Winter mode with Economy selected. It might not work if there is an error. Once you’ve cleared the codes try turning the key to position II and then selecting Winter mode. If it doesn’t light then there is a good chance it’s been nobbled too, although it is quite hard to access the dash bulbs on a 960.

[LaceSpades]

Have cleared the codes/row'd gears and the codes have not yet returned. The switch isn't flashing anymore either and winter mode button responds and is now clicking on a relay somewhere when engaged. Wasn't able to get the lamp on dash still but will take it for a drive tomorrow and get back if codes return/issues arise. Cheers!

[Dippydog]

On that system how do you clear the codes?

[LaceSpades]

Followed the initial steps from the earlier linked guide and read every code at least once.
Held the button for >5 seconds then let go.
After a few seconds the light comes on.
Held the button for >5 seconds again then let go.
Turn off the ignition, wait a moment, and go back to position 2
Codes read 1-1-1 only after indicating no codes remained. I suppose if something were still bad then some codes would come back.

[LaceSpades]

Went out for a drive today, several starts and shifts and varied speeds, only got a code as I backed into the driveway, 2-2-2 now stored in memory.