You can replace the knob. It comes with the light and wire attached. Not the hardest job, but does require disassembling the center stack panel and side kick panel of the console. The wire has a small white connector that plugs in on the driver’s side of the console. If you remove the driver’s side kick panel on the console, you will be able to see it. You might try disconnecting it and plugging it back in before buying a new knob.

 

I’ve dissembled the the center stack and kick panels during the “discovery process”. The “short” seems to be about an inch below the base of the knob. When I squeeze the white “wire tape” the knob lights ups when I release, the light goes out. I’ve changed the knob in my S60 in the past by pulling it straight up. Is the process the same for the lighted knob? Thanks for the reply!

 

Before I answer, please note mine is a 2014 XC60. Volvo redesigned the knob with two thin wires compared to the tape wire on yours. I previously changed the knob on my S80, so thought it would be just as easy, but it was not.

To remove the knob itself, you need to turn the leather collar 1/4 turn counter-clockwise, then pry the front and back plastic tabs slightly to release the knob while pulling up. The wire is secured under the leather boot by a zip tie. To remove the leather boot, I needed to unscrew the console with the cup holders. Then there are two tabs under the boot at the top and two at the bottom that you push to remove the boot.

 

I will order a new knob, I’m not sure if it will be my old style or the 2 wire you mention. I was able to get the base of the boot off but didn’t get it off around base of knob, your information helps with that. I’ll find a vendor tonight since I don’t see it on fcpeuro at this time and tomorrow they may be closed on the holiday.
Thank you for the information!

 

I think I recall other owners saying you have to get the one with the same flat wire because the connectors are different. I can’t find the threads because the search function does not seem to work anymore. Tascaparts.com should have the correct knob. Also try volvooempartsdirect.com and use code “swedespeed” for free shipping. I’ve had good luck with them lately.

 

I came across this link on EBay, not sure if it's legit but it may be a way to fix it. Since I was never able to take the boot of from the base of knob I'm not sure if there is a connector that can be removed.
Link: https://www.ebay.com/itm/2013-Volvo-S60-Gear-Shifter-Light-fix-kit-non-R-Design-/112813679102

 

I’d be more confident if he showed a picture of the wire connection, but for only $20 there’s not much to lose. It sounds like the replacement wire with instructions. Seems reasonable if you know that the wire is the problem.

 

Well my 2013 XC 60 gear shift knob light flashes on and off while squeezing the leather jacket too. I ordered one of these wires from the link above. For 20 dollars it’s worth a try. I will let you know how it works once I get my hands on it. Thanks for the link.

 

I emailed with the guy from the link and sent a pic of the connector. Waiting for a reply from him, I will most likely try the $20 fix as nothing is wrong with the knob. I will update when I get wire. thanks to all

 

I know this is an old thread, but hoping to get some experienced feedback.

I just picked up a high mileage 2013 xc70 but seemed very well maintained overall. One of the few issues is the short in the selector lighting just as described here. The ebay link above is no longer valid. I also found a youtube video showing the issue and a link to a google form to buy the wire. Not sure if it's legit or a scam. The video doesn't seem like it's directly related to the description and it's the only video posted to the channel. Has anyone used that form, paid and receive the cable and instructions as promised?

Purchase 2013 Volvo S60 Gear Shifter Light fix kit

Better yet, anyone know where else to source a replacement cable? How is it connected to the org shift handle end so it can be swapped? I'm skeptical it isn't hard wired and the only real fix means replacing the handle as Volvo suggests unless it's easy enough to solder on. Hate unkonws.
Tks

 

Update:
The flat tape wire arrived and it was a bit longer than the original. Removal of center column was straight forward since I've done it in the past. i was able to get the gear shift knob off and the new wire went into the slot/holder without issue. I passed the wire behind the boot and out the bottom as directed. I thought it was going to be a "chip shot" and I'd be done. Mistake... attaching the wire to the center column piece was brutal since the white clip that holds it was not my friend. I dropped it behind the carpet and had to remove the drivers seat, if that wasn't bad enough it had fallen behind a shaped metal support for the floor and I had to use tweezers to get it out. I tried to insert the clip with a pair of small forceps that I had. Well the piece sprung out of the forceps and bounced off of my cheek and went out into the garage. After 15min of searching I was ready to give up. Then I found it on the window sill. I put a drop of super glue on the connector and stuck the tape to it. It went in fine. The only problem is that It only shows the light for the "R". I gave up. My impression is that there are about 5 or 6 wires in the tape and it must be touching something it's not supposed to. I disconnected it and put it back together. I can see why the dealer would charge a bunch. Now that there are no lights it is less stressful than if there were. I am unable to attach photo of the clip of misery...

 

Well, it was worth a shot and the info may help others. You can still replace the entire knob.