QuestionI have a 1997 Volvo 850 with 65,000 miles. Fo about a year now the car will not go into gear right after I start the car. I can override the gear shift lock with the button, but then the speedomter, odometer, dash and head lights will not work until it eventually kicks in while I am driving. I have found if I jiggle the key before I put it into gear then the dash/headlights come on and I know I am good to go. Is this a short ignition problem and how easy to fix? Also, I have plenty of wiper fluid, but when I pull back to wash the windshield, the fluid will not come out. I can hear the pump working and I see fluid "bubling" in the reservoir, but it will not squirt onto the windshield. Thoughts? Thanks in advance.
AnswerWell it sounds like 3 different problems.
1) the gear lockout, sounds like a loose cable/interlock, if you pull apart the center console you may be able to find where its not fitting right.
2) with the malfunctioning lights and accessories, it sounds like a loose feed from the ignition for either 15, or X outputs (position 2 & 3 feed, position 1 & 2 feed). may need a new ignition switch or a wiring repair, could be either, you'll need your local mechanic to find it either way unless you know how to do electrical troubleshooting yourself.
3) the washer fluid sounds like you have a leak in one of the pump inlet lines. If its getting any air into it at all then no washer fluid will come out
Hope that helps.
James
