So cold weather has arrived, and now my 04 XC90 has an intermittent issue that doesn't seem to be causing any harm - but it is unnerving.

When I start the car first thing in the morning, it turns over a couple of times (without much straining), then the entire car and display panel goes completely 'dead', then comes alive and the car starts. The first couple of times, I backed off on the ignition, and tried again without issue. Now, I just keep holding the ignition, and it seems to make it through the 'dead spot' and starts normally. Starts throughout the day are ok. I tested the charging system and charged the battery overnight. I even picked up another battery - just in case, and it didn't seem to make any difference.

This issue did not occur last year - no matter how cold the car was - it just did your typical 'strained' start.

Has anyone had this issue, or does anyone know what may be happening?

Thanks in advance...