Volvo: 1989 volvo electrical problems, fuse box, automatic transmissions

Question
Hello,
I have a 89' 740 gle volvo with 200,000+ miles. Recently the Radio has stopped working the speedometer has stopped and the overhead light doesn't go on. What can i do to stop the electrial issues. Also I get about 5 gallons to every 100 miles is this normal in volvo's in 10-30 degree weather! What could be wrong with my car! What can I do low cost to temp. fix it.-

Answer
It sounds like you have several separate problems.  You're going to have to pull the radio out and check to make sure it is getting a voltage through the back.  If it is, then the radio itself is probably broken.  If it isn't, check your fuse box, you might have blown one.  The speedometer is a little harder.  The first thing to do would be to check the drive cable that runs from the transmission to the back of the instrument panel, which involves climbing under the car.  Make sure it is connected at both ends; sometimes they get loose and come off.  As for the light, make sure it isn't just burnt out, and if it isn't, check for 12 volts at the terminals.  If they are dead, check your fuse box again.  The mileage sounds a little low, but not abnormal for Volvo's with automatic transmissions in the winter time.  If you are driving around town for most of the tank, then that will lower it even more.  You can run a bottle of injecter cleaner through your next tank of gas to help increase your mileage.  Good luck!