After a lot of research on the internet, I found some aftermarket bulbs that are drastically cheaper than the $12 each that the Volvo dealer charges (as low as 20 cents each!).

The type of these bulbs is called "neo-wedge". Neo wedge bulbs are designed to attach directly to a PCB (printed circuit board) as is the case for the Volvo ECC unit (climate control unit). These neo wedge bulbs are found in many different car brands both domestic and foreign and are massed produced by the zillions. There is no reason in the world why Volvo needs to charge $12 a piece for these things...ridiculous!

The ones you need have a 10mm base. Here are three places to get them cheap!

1. http://autolumination.com/74.htm

Scroll way down to where you will see the below:

Type B Neo - Wedge Instrument Panel Bulbs are 10mm (3/8") diameter x 12mm (1/2") high
Blue Red Amber Green Purple
Order Neo Wedge Based Incandescent Bulbs (shown above): $1.49 ea.

2. http://www.allelectronics.com/make-a-store/item/LP-70/14V-NEO-WEDGE-BASE-LAMP/1.html

Note: 14V bulbs are designed for automotive applications with a 12V system
20 cents each from this place.

3. http://www.opamp-electronics.com/catalog/14v-80ma-neowedge-base-incandescent-lamp-pack-p-1191.html

A 5-pack is 99 cents from this place.

Hope this helps!!!

One word of caution...when removing and unplugging the climate control unit and bulbs, be sure to disconnect the battery for 20 minutes beforehand. I have heard if you don't do this it will screw up the on-board computer and then it must be reprogrammed by a Volvo dealer for lots of $$$.

Also, when you reconnect the battery and if you find that some things don't work anymore (like the door locks, sun roof, and/or other power accessories), then you must reset the electrical system by locking and unlocking the doors with the key in the driver's door 5 times in a row. Then everything will work again. I have to do this pretty much every time I disconnect the battery.

Good luck.
G Squared







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2001 S80 2.9 (non-turbo), 115K miles