Volvo: Shift Selector issues, volvo 850 wagon, reverse light switch

Question
  I have a 1996 Volvo 850 Wagon with an automatic transmission. My shift selector needs some help.

- You have to jiggle it to get the backup lights to come on

- I can shift out of park without depressing the button on the shift knob.

- I can leave it in drive and remove the key.

Any help on where to start is greatly appreciated.

Thanks Much!

Craig A. State College, PA

Answer
Craig,
There is a fault in the shifter housing. Take it in to have it checked for faults. They have a cable in there that only allows the key to be taken out when the shifter is in Park. It has maybe broken or fallen out of place. The reverse lights might be due to the adjustment of the shifter or the gear position sensor, that is also the reverse light switch. It is mounted on the trans. Deal with the shifter bucket first that may turn the reverse lights back on.