Hello All,

I have a 1999 XC with just over 90K on the odometer. Recently I noticed the button that you depress on the gear shift to change gears has developed a crack. The crack is located on the bottom right corner (facing the dashboard)of the button. This appears to be a stress related crack that resulted over time. I notice when I push the button, there is resistence that just widens the crack.

This crack not "pricks" my fingers when I depress the button to shift the gears. My questions are:

1) Is this a common design defect, that other people have experienced with their XCs?

2) How expensive is it to have this broken button replaced?

3) If I have the button replaced, will it just crack again after a certain amount of use or passage of time?

4) Is there any way to repair the crack so it stops "pricking" my fingers when I shift.

My thanks to all who reply.

Hugh

People used to replace the entire gearshift. Put it in N and pull straight up.

The button can be replaced. There is a write up on Volvospeed.com in the pinned section under the 1998 and prior cars. It shows how to get the button off.

You could look around for a wooden shift knob??? The dealer will only replace the entire shifter.

Klaus
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Volvoless. Sold the R. There is now a void...

Klaus,

I went to Volvospeed and tried to find the information on how to replace the button on gear shift, but could not find it. Could you tell me again where I can find it. Thanks!

Hugh

http://volvospeed.com/vs_forum/index.php?showtopic=101194&hl=accurate
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Volvoless. Sold the R. There is now a void...

Klaus,

Thanks for the link. I called my local Volvo dealer and spoke to a parts representative who is competent and honest. He said Volvo doesn't just sell the button you depress, but the entire handle that the button sits in.

The retail cost of the button assembly is approximately $68. He had 3 in stock, so obviously he sells them. I may try to live with this "problem" for a while. Maybe if I put some epoxy into the crack it will smooth out the edges and keep the plastic shard from flexing.

Separately, I'm sorry to hear you sold your V70R. However, I know you used to have a 1975 164E which you miss badly. I saw a beautiful 1972 164E with a manual that only has 128,000 on in for $2,500 that appears in the back of the most recent issue of the Volvo Club magazine "Rolling". If you want the number and e-mail of the seller, I can provide it to you. I hope this proves of interest to you, because I appreciate all the help you provide not only to me, but to others.

Hugh

Glueing it might help a little, but I am afraid you will end up getting a replacement unit. If there are any junk yards around you, ask for a nice simulated wood one for $20.

I am out of the car market until spring at the earliest, and then will be looking for a car my daughter can take to school and work. Thanks for the offer.

Klaus
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Volvoless. Sold the R. There is now a void...