Volvo: 1993 Volvo 850 automatic transmission, volvo dealer, volvo 850

Question
Hi
I just bought the car (with a recent reaccondined gearbox). One week after, when I got in the motorway the automatic transmission light started flashing in the dash. Also I have noticed some other details, there is some leaking of ATF but the level hasn't go down and when it turns to third gear I can hear a "crack", but just once in every ride, i.e., when you stop the car and run it again, the crack is back in the same gear. I'm thinking that this could be a security issue that after it fails the car keeps running in the third gear but i honestly have no idea about cars. Of course, when I bought it non of this was son evident like it is now. Volvo dealer hasn't got a clue about it also and he is offering me my money back (1.100 pounds). My problem is that I really need the car right now. Can you hel me?

Answer
Claudia,
The problem you are having with your trans does not have a simple fix. Your leaking of fluid and the harsh noise during the shift indicate an internal trans problem. See if your dealer is willing to help with the cost of a "Volvo exchange" trans. Have the dealer take the car out for a ride and give you some choices.