1998 Volvo V70 Electrical system Problems

“Volvo V70 1998 - fire in engine compartment - car destroyed during routine driving, engine stops. Driver notices smoke coming from engine compartment and electrical systems (lights) blinking. In a few minutes the car is totally destroyed by fire. When I visited the wrecker's yard I found a Volvo 850 wagon that was destroyed by fire in the same way!”

“The ignition switch frequently jams, locked, in the off position. The key can be inserted, but the ignition lock will not turn, making it impossible to start and operate the vehicle or turn on accessories or turn the steering wheel, rendering the vehicle completely inoperative. When the ignition is in the on position, it can be turned off without difficulty. When it is off, however, it frequently can not be turned on . A quick internet search revealed that this is a rather common problem.”

“Rear passenger side doors can not be opened manually or electrically. Consumer stated there is no way his paraplegic son can exit the vehicle if there was a fire or collision. Lock motors failed once and were replaced. Mechanic had to break a part in the door to release the lock.”

“The contact stated while parked in the driveway for one day, smoke was noticed coming from under the hood. The fire department was contacted and extinguished the fire. The vehicle was towed to an independent repair shop who determined the wiring harness caused the fire. The wiring harness was replaced. The dealer was not notified. Updated 10/18/2006 - the vehicle was last driven about 14 hours prior to the vehicle catching on fire. The service dealer replaced the harness to the ABS control unit.”

“This car has been plagued with electrical problems. Headlight, taillight, turn signals...all have been replaced numerous times. The stereo and battery have also been replaced. Both the drivers window and the rear passenger windows have malfunctioned causing them to stick in the position that they are in. The dealer has replaced most of the bulbs at no charge. I have had 2 replaced while on vacation at various times. I can not think of anything other then the tires, that is not governed by the electrical system in this vehicle. With two small children, this is obviously a concern to me. …”