I have a problem with the speedometer on my 1995 850 turbo, it dies intermittently taking the odometer and the cruise control with it. If I restart the engine (rebooting all the computers) it normally brings it back until it dies again.

Everything else on the dashboard is working ok when the speedo dies. Is there likely to be a quick and easy fix for this, or do I need to start replacing expensive and difficult to reach equipment??

My 1996 850 does that as well, plus the indicators stop working. After taking it to an auto elec I found out it was actually the ignition. It I give the key a little jiggle everything comes back. I could replace the ignition, but the tweak works for now.

tim

The next time it dies, check your codes. The speedometer is somewhat electronic, there is a sensor that connects to the rear of the tranny and then is routed through the PNP switch.

Klaus
--
The more I learn, the more I forget. So why learn?

My 1995 had both, the engine compartment code boxes and the OBDII port under the coin tray. Wiggling the key while the car is still running is a good idea.

The Park, Neutral Position switch is under the fresh air intake tube, that goes to the air cleaner. The speedo wire is next to it, in a series with 2 other wires.

When the PNP switch goes bad, you should at least get a check engine light or an up shift arrow. The reverse lights will also no longer work.

Klaus
--
Proud owner of a 1967 220S

Unfortunately my car was an early adopter for OBD II, so I can't check the codes myself...

What's a PNP switch??

Actually your '95 has both OBD-I and OBD-II. The OBD-I is actually more accurate. Details on how to read the codes is here:

http://volvospeed.com/CheckEngine.php

I suspect that your have a bad connection on the vehicle speed sensor. On your car it is located near the center of the transaxle, inboard side, toward the firewall side of the car. Codes will tell a lot more.

...Lee