Volvo: 1992 volvo 960 automatic tranmission selector lights flashing, mode selector switch, 1992 volvo 960

Question
Hi Jimmy, I own a 1992 volvo 960 sedan with 3.0 inline with automatic transmission. It has about 180000 liles. I have 2 questions.

Last winter, on cold mornings in Maryland, the mode selector switch with 3 buttons (W<S<E which is right next to the shift) that selects Economy, Sports, and Winter transmission modes started flashing and sometimes the car would not start. I replaced the switch for about $90 in January 2004. This morning on oct4,2004 when the temperature outside was about 55-60F (in Maryland), I had driven about 4 miles and the same problem of flashing switch lights and then an appreciable loss of power. This happened for the first time after replacing the switch in January 2004. I drove the car back 4 miles, and left it in the driveway. At 330 PM when the temperatures warmed up to 70 I tried again and, the car started ok. The switch flashed just once and stabilized on E (for Economy mode). No flashing lights and no loss of power. It drove like normal. After parking I started it 2 times and again it started normal without any flashing. What do you think is the problem? is it related to temperature outside? If so then how do I correct it to avoid the breakdown for the coming winter cold temperatures? I would prefer not to replace the expensive again within a year.

Another question is that when I changed the battery and starter 2 weeks ago, the 'check engine' light on the dashboard came on and it stays on while the car is running. I do not have a code reading tool for diagnosis. Do I need to buy one or can I diagnose without it?

Thank you in anticipation of your help. Subhash

Answer
Hello! There is most likely a fault with the gear position sensor. It is located on the transmission. It will also cause the check engine light o come on. It is best to have someone that is Volvo qualified to check the fault codes stored in the ecm and tcm just to confirm my thoughts. I hope this info helps you.

Jimmy