99 v70 turn signals.

I have a problem with the turn signals not working most of the time. I wont even get the indicators to come on in the instrument cluster. At first it seemed to be related to the position of the ignition key but now they generally dont work. Sometimes I will get one blink then nothing. I have also noticed if they are not working the auto shut off does not work. Some one suggested the problem was actually in the ignition switch but I am not wanting to start buying parts that are not nessecary. If any one has had or knows of this problem I would apperciate any input. Thanks for your time. Jon