Volvo Repair: Dash backlight, abs light, dash light

Question
I have a 95 850 glt. when i first start the car the backlight in the dash turns on fine, after a second or two it goes off and never turns back on unless the car is restarted. one thing i find interesting is when i start the car the abs light stays on and it wont shift into gear. but if i back the key off slightly the abs light goes off and it functions fine, but at the same time the abs light goes off the dash light flicks on for a second. could this be an ignition switch or something? and help would be appreciated!!!

Answer
  Thomas, I would check that ignition switch very carefully. Sounds like that's the problem. Also, sometimes the rheostat for the dash baklighting goes flaky. Roll the knob around and whatch the lighting. If it's flickering on and off or goes out completely. Replace it.

Mark