Both reverse lights fail to work, and while I have not checked either bulb, it just seemed too much of a coincident. I have read about the PNP possibly being a cause. I do NOT have a check engine light though. Could it still be the PNP?

Phil

Hello Phil,

As most have stated, it is most likely the PNP switch. However, I have also seen many ignition switch faults cause the reverse lights to become inoperative. The electrical part of the ignition switch is a common failure in these cars, leading to many possible symptoms:

-Intermittent reverse lights
-Intermittent ABS lamp on w/ no stored ABS codes
-Headlights don't work, neither do the dash lights
-Shifter stuck in park

Anyway, as others have said, it is likely to be the PNP switch, but I wouldn't rule this one out. A junk ignition switch will also set no DTC's. I hope this helps...

Joe S. - Volvo Master Technician

Hi Joe!

Hope you don't mind the interruption but I am in the brickboard looking for an answer to this same question about backup lights. Mine also come on and off as they please. If I wiggle the shift, I can usually get them to come on. I just had to replace my headlight switch also.

What is a PNP and is it hard to replace? Where is it located? How much does it cost?

Any information will be greatly appreciated!! Being a lady I don't know to much but am trying to learn!!!!!!!

Thanks, Joe!

Laurie

Joe,

Another question, unrelated to the PNP switch. The 3rd row seat will not "lock" into the back of the rear seats. The "serrated" finger simply pulls the cup out of the hole in the rear of the back seats. What piece needs to be replaced and what is the typical cost, if you know?

Thanks,
Phil

If it is the PNP switch, try to clean some of the contacts by rowing your shifter from R to 1 about 20 times. You may get the lights back.
--
98 V70Rawd(101Kmi), 95 854T(85K mi), 88 245(165K mi)

Klaus,

I've been trolling this site for a few nonths now and you seem to "be the man" with the most answers. You've aready saved me a bunch of time/money/hassle. Thanks to you and the rest of the knowledgeable people on this list for you help.

Phil

Thank you for your vote of confidence, but I am not always right. I just try to be helpful. I wish there was a course on basic car mechanics so someone could watch me as I change rotors/pads, flush the tranny, flush the brake fluid, and clean/maintain various motor parts. I know how, I just don't feel confident. My wife said she won't ride in any car I re-do the brakes on until it has stopped for at least one month :)

Klaus
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98 V70Rawd(101Kmi), 95 854T(85K mi), 75 164E(173K mi)

It is the PNP switch. I have the similar issue, the backup (reverse) light comes on intermittent. I am planning to replace the PNP swithc in the summer time before the next inspection date.

Ching-Ho Cheng
--
1995 855 NA, Bilstein Strut & Shocks, Volvo Protective Grill, K&N Filter, E-Code Lens, ClearCorner Light, Alpine CD-Changer, AutoDim RearView Mirror, 6000K HID

I seem to remember a possible reason for this was the brake switch which is located on steering column. PNP switch is a good thing to change though.

The brake switch that you are talking about is for the shifter locking mechanism not related to the backup light ON/OFF. Backup (reverse) light ON/OFF switch is inside the PNP switch for an Automatic tranny. Manual tranny has the switch on it's tranny housing which is much easier to replace that PNP.

Ching-Ho Cheng
--
1995 855 NA, Bilstein Strut & Shocks, Volvo Protective Grill, K&N Filter, E-Code Lens, ClearCorner Light, Alpine CD-Changer, AutoDim RearView Mirror, 6000K HID